Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's chief financial officer faces US accusations that she covered up her company's links to a firm that tried to sell equipment to Iran despite sanctions, a Canadian prosecutor said on Friday, arguing against giving her bail while she awaits extradition.

After nearly six hours of arguments and counter-arguments, no decision was reached and the hearing was adjourned until Monday 10:00 am Pacific Time (1800 GMT).

The case against Meng Wanzhou, who is also the daughter of the founder of Huawei, stems from a 2013 report about the company's close ties to Hong Kong-based Skycom Tech Co Ltd, which attempted to sell US equipment to Iran despite US and European Union bans, the prosecutor told a Vancouver court.

US prosecutors argue that Meng was not truthful to banks who asked her about links between the two firms, the court heard on Friday. If extradited to the United States, Meng would face charges of conspiracy to defraud multiple financial institutions, the court heard, with a maximum sentence of 30 years for each charge.

Meng, 46, was arrested in Canada on December 1 at the request of the United States. The arrest was on the same day that US President Donald Trump met in Argentina with China's Xi Jinping to look for ways to resolve an escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies.

The news of her arrest has roiled stock markets and drawn condemnation from Chinese authorities, although Trump and his top economic advisers have downplayed its importance to trade talks after the two leaders agreed to a truce.

Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's chief financial officer faces US accusations that she covered up her company's links to a firm that tried to sell equipment to Iran despite sanctions, a Canadian prosecutor said on Friday, arguing against giving her bail while she awaits extradition.

Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's chief financial officer faces US accusations that she covered up her company's links to a firm that tried to sell equipment to Iran despite sanctions, a Canadian prosecutor said on Friday, arguing against giving her bail while she awaits extradition. After nearly six hours of arguments and counter-arguments, no decision was reached and the hearing was adjourned until Monday 10:00 am Pacific Time (1800 GMT). The case against Meng Wanzhou, who is also the daughter of the founder of Huawei, stems from a 2013 report about the company's close ties to Hong Kong-based Skycom Tech Co Ltd, which attempted to sell US equipment to Iran despite US and European Union bans, the prosecutor told a Vancouver court. US prosecutors argue that Meng was not truthful to banks who asked her about links between the two firms, the court heard on Friday. If extradited to the United States, Meng would face charges of conspiracy to defraud multiple financial institutions, the court heard, with a maximum sentence of 30 years for each charge. Meng, 46, was arrested in Canada on December 1 at the request of the United States. The arrest was on the same day that US President Donald Trump met in Argentina with China's Xi Jinping to look for ways to resolve an escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies. The news of her arrest has roiled stock markets and drawn condemnation from Chinese authorities, although Trump and his top economic advisers have downplayed its importance to trade talks after the two leaders agreed to a truce.

US accuses Huawei CFO of Iran sanctions cover-up; hearing adjourned to Monday

Iraq's president Barham Salih on Sunday urged the United States to consider Baghdad's political and economic position as the countries negotiate on relief for Iraq from Washington's reimposed sanctions against Iran.

The United States said on Friday Iraq can continue to import natural gas and energy supplies from Iran for a period of 45 days, so long as Iraq does not pay Iran for imports in US&nbsp;dollars. Sanctions on Tehran's oil sector took effect on November 5.

"We do not want Iraq to be burdened with the US&nbsp;sanctions on Iran," Barham Salih, the newly elected President, told reporters during a visit to the Gulf Arab state of Kuwait.

Iraq wanted to maintain "balanced" relations with all its neighbours and the international community, he said.

"Iran is a neighbouring country and our interest lies in having good and stable relations with Iran," he said, adding the Iraqi people also wanted to deepen Arab and Gulf ties.

Iraq needs to rebuild its economy and infrastructure as it emerges from a ruinous conflict with Islamic State.

Iraq central bank officials said in August that the country's economy is closely linked to non-Arab Iran, which is locked in several proxy wars with Saudi Arabia in the region.

Iraq's president Barham Salih on Sunday urged the United States to consider Baghdad's political and economic position as the countries negotiate on relief for Iraq from Washington's reimposed sanctions against Iran.

Iraq's president Barham Salih on Sunday urged the United States to consider Baghdad's political and economic position as the countries negotiate on relief for Iraq from Washington's reimposed sanctions against Iran. The United States said on Friday Iraq can continue to import natural gas and energy supplies from Iran for a period of 45 days, so long as Iraq does not pay Iran for imports in US dollars. Sanctions on Tehran's oil sector took effect on November 5. "We do not want Iraq to be burdened with the US sanctions on Iran," Barham Salih, the newly elected President, told reporters during a visit to the Gulf Arab state of Kuwait. Iraq wanted to maintain "balanced" relations with all its neighbours and the international community, he said. "Iran is a neighbouring country and our interest lies in having good and stable relations with Iran," he said, adding the Iraqi people also wanted to deepen Arab and Gulf ties. Iraq needs to rebuild its economy and infrastructure as it emerges from a ruinous conflict with Islamic State. Iraq central bank officials said in August that the country's economy is closely linked to non-Arab Iran, which is locked in several proxy wars with Saudi Arabia in the region.

Iraq urges US to consider its position in talks on Iran sanctions

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-democrats-scent-victory-over-trumps-republicans-in-congress-175944">US midterms: Democrats scent victory over Trump's Republicans in Congress</a>

Democrats began to scent a big night in the US midterm elections Tuesday with early results pointing to them seizing the House of Representatives from the Republicans in what would be a dramatic rebuke to President Donald Trump.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-snatch-first-congress-seats-from-republicans-in-us-midterms-175929">Democrats snatch first Congress seats from Republicans in US midterms</a>

Democrats seized their first two Republican-held seats of the US midterm elections Tuesday, networks projected, flipping House seats in Virginia and Florida seen as crucial to the opposition party's effort to regain a majority in the chamber.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-exempts-indian-backed-chabahar-port-in-iran-from-sanctions-175922">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-exempts-indian-backed-chabahar-port-in-iran-from-sanctions-175922"> exempts Indian-backed Chabahar port in Iran from sanctions</a>

The United States said Tuesday it would exempt Iran's Indian-backed port of Chabahar from new sanctions on Tehran, recognizing the value of the project to Afghanistan.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/vice-president-mike-pences-brother-greg-elected-to-us-congress-175932">Vice-President Mike Pence's older brother Greg elected to US Congress</a>

Greg Pence, the older brother of US Vice President Mike Pence, won a seat in the US House of Representatives on Tuesday soon after polls began closing in the midterm elections. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/metoo-brexit-environment-inspire-new-dictionary-entries-175923">Metoo</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/metoo-brexit-environment-inspire-new-dictionary-entries-175923">, Brexit are now in the dictionary, 'single-use' is </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/metoo-brexit-environment-inspire-new-dictionary-entries-175923">word</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/metoo-brexit-environment-inspire-new-dictionary-entries-175923"> of the year</a>

"Single-use" was named the Collins Dictionary word of the year on Wednesday, following a four-fold increase in usage since 2013 in a reflection of increased concerns about sustainability.

US midterms: Democrats scent victory over Trump's Republicans in Congress Democrats began to scent a big night in the US midterm elections Tuesday with early results pointing to them seizing the House of Representatives from the Republicans in what would be a dramatic rebuke to President Donald Trump.

US midterms: Democrats scent victory over Trump's Republicans in Congress Democrats began to scent a big night in the US midterm elections Tuesday with early results pointing to them seizing the House of Representatives from the Republicans in what would be a dramatic rebuke to President Donald Trump. Democrats snatch first Congress seats from Republicans in US midterms Democrats seized their first two Republican-held seats of the US midterm elections Tuesday, networks projected, flipping House seats in Virginia and Florida seen as crucial to the opposition party's effort to regain a majority in the chamber. US exempts Indian-backed Chabahar port in Iran from sanctions The United States said Tuesday it would exempt Iran's Indian-backed port of Chabahar from new sanctions on Tehran, recognizing the value of the project to Afghanistan. Vice-President Mike Pence's older brother Greg elected to US Congress Greg Pence, the older brother of US Vice President Mike Pence, won a seat in the US House of Representatives on Tuesday soon after polls began closing in the midterm elections. Metoo, Brexit are now in the dictionary, 'single-use' is word of the year "Single-use" was named the Collins Dictionary word of the year on Wednesday, following a four-fold increase in usage since 2013 in a reflection of increased concerns about sustainability.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US Secy of state, Mike Pompeo on Iran Sanctions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed US leader Donald Trump for reimposing sanctions against mutual foe Iran, ahead of a fresh round of penalties set to kick in Monday.&nbsp;

"Thank you, President Trump, for this historic move. The sanctions are indeed coming," Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office.&nbsp;

"For years I've been calling for sanctions to be fully reimposed against Iran's murderous terrorist regime, which threatens the entire world."

Trump announced in May he was withdrawing the US from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposing sanctions, sparking outrage among world powers who say Tehran has been complying with commitments to restrict its atomic programme.

On Friday, Washington confirmed it was going ahead with a second round of sanctions set to take effect on Monday.&nbsp;

Netanyahu said the effect of the first round of sanctions reintroduced in August "were already being felt".

"The riyal has plummeted, Iran's economy is depressed and the results are evident," he said.&nbsp;

The European Union, France, Britain and Germany -- all signatories to the 2015 deal with Iran -- have condemned the US move to renew its sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

Washington says it wants a new deal with Tehran, curtailing its regional interventions and missile programme -- demands which have been flatly rejected by Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed US leader Donald Trump for reimposing sanctions against mutual foe Iran, ahead of a fresh round of penalties set to kick in Monday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed US leader Donald Trump for reimposing sanctions against mutual foe Iran, ahead of a fresh round of penalties set to kick in Monday. "Thank you, President Trump, for this historic move. The sanctions are indeed coming," Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office. "For years I've been calling for sanctions to be fully reimposed against Iran's murderous terrorist regime, which threatens the entire world." Trump announced in May he was withdrawing the US from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposing sanctions, sparking outrage among world powers who say Tehran has been complying with commitments to restrict its atomic programme. On Friday, Washington confirmed it was going ahead with a second round of sanctions set to take effect on Monday. Netanyahu said the effect of the first round of sanctions reintroduced in August "were already being felt". "The riyal has plummeted, Iran's economy is depressed and the results are evident," he said. The European Union, France, Britain and Germany -- all signatories to the 2015 deal with Iran -- have condemned the US move to renew its sanctions on Iran. Washington says it wants a new deal with Tehran, curtailing its regional interventions and missile programme -- demands which have been flatly rejected by Iran.

Israel's Netanyahu hails Trump for Iran sanctions

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that he is open to a new comprehensive deal with Iran, saying that till then the toughest-ever sanctions on the Middle-East country that kicks off on Monday would continue.

"The United States remains open to reaching a new, more comprehensive deal with Iran that forever blocks its path to a nuclear weapon, addresses the entire range of its malign actions, and is worthy of the Iranian people," Trump said in a presidential statement late Friday night.

"Until then, our historic sanctions will remain in full force," he said, hours after his two Cabinet members, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, announced that the US would reimpose a series of crippling sanctions on Iran beginning Monday.

In his presidential statement, Trump called on the regime to abandon its nuclear ambitions, change its "destructive behaviour", respect the rights of its people, and return in good faith to the negotiating table.

It was in May, Trump had announced that the US had withdrawn from what he described as "the horrible, one-sided" Iran nuclear deal.

"On Monday, November 5, the termination of United States participation in the Iran nuclear deal will be complete. The last set of sanctions lifted under the terrible nuclear deal will come back into force, including powerful sanctions on Iran's energy, shipping, and shipbuilding sectors, and sanctions targeting transactions with the Central Bank of Iran and sanctioned Iranian banks," the president said.

"Our objective is to force the regime into a clear choice: either abandon its destructive behaviour or continue down the path toward economic disaster," he added.

Later a senior State Department official told reporters that the US was ready for talks with Iran.

"Secretary Pompeo has been very clear that we have an ear open to what is possible. We very much want to begin work on a new and better deal to replace the insufficient Iran nuclear deal that the president left in May, and our campaign of maximum economic pressure is a critical tactic to achieve that goal," Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that he is open to a new comprehensive deal with Iran, saying that till then the toughest-ever sanctions on the Middle-East country that kicks off on Monday would continue.

US President Donald Trump on Friday said that he is open to a new comprehensive deal with Iran, saying that till then the toughest-ever sanctions on the Middle-East country that kicks off on Monday would continue. "The United States remains open to reaching a new, more comprehensive deal with Iran that forever blocks its path to a nuclear weapon, addresses the entire range of its malign actions, and is worthy of the Iranian people," Trump said in a presidential statement late Friday night. "Until then, our historic sanctions will remain in full force," he said, hours after his two Cabinet members, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, announced that the US would reimpose a series of crippling sanctions on Iran beginning Monday. In his presidential statement, Trump called on the regime to abandon its nuclear ambitions, change its "destructive behaviour", respect the rights of its people, and return in good faith to the negotiating table. It was in May, Trump had announced that the US had withdrawn from what he described as "the horrible, one-sided" Iran nuclear deal. "On Monday, November 5, the termination of United States participation in the Iran nuclear deal will be complete. The last set of sanctions lifted under the terrible nuclear deal will come back into force, including powerful sanctions on Iran's energy, shipping, and shipbuilding sectors, and sanctions targeting transactions with the Central Bank of Iran and sanctioned Iranian banks," the president said. "Our objective is to force the regime into a clear choice: either abandon its destructive behaviour or continue down the path toward economic disaster," he added. Later a senior State Department official told reporters that the US was ready for talks with Iran. "Secretary Pompeo has been very clear that we have an ear open to what is possible. We very much want to begin work on a new and better deal to replace the insufficient Iran nuclear deal that the president left in May, and our campaign of maximum economic pressure is a critical tactic to achieve that goal," Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook said.

Donald Trump says he is open to new deal with Iran

The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week.

The aim is to cripple the Iranian economy to pressure Tehran to halt its nuclear activities and what the US says is broad support for “terrorism” in the region, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.

The reimposition of sanctions “is aimed at depriving the regime of the revenues it uses to spread death and destruction around the world,” Pompeo explained.

“Our ultimate aim is to compel Iran to permanently abandon its well-documented outlaw activities and behave as a normal country.”

President Trump tweeted what looks like a movie-style poster that takes creative inspiration from the TV series “Game of Thrones” to announce the reimposition of sanctions against Iran.

He tweeted a photo of himself with the words “Sanctions are Coming”.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://t.co/nk2vKvHuaL">pic.twitter.com/nk2vKvHuaL</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1058388700617498625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, eight countries will be able to continue importing Iranian oil at lower levels in order to avoid upsetting global crude markets when the sanctions take effect on Monday, the US later said.

The sanctions come six months after President Donald Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal struck between world powers and Iran.

At the time, he began reimposing sanctions that had been suspended or removed by his predecessor Barack Obama.

That process will be completed starting from midnight Sunday, US eastern time, when sanctions on the regime’s banks, shippers, shipbuilders and oil sector are imposed.

The impact remains in question as other countries, particularly Washington’s European allies, resist joining its effort to economically strangle the Tehran regime.

The European Union has gone so far as to protect businesses that operate in Iran. It has announced plans for a legal framework through which firms can skirt US sanctions, although few major corporations have been eager to risk the wrath of penalties in the world’s largest economy.

“This is not 2012 when the world was united behind sanctions against Iran. This is the Trump administration trying to force the rest of the world to go along with a policy that most countries do not accept,” said Barbara Slavin, an Iran expert at the Washington-based Atlantic Council.

“The US has had some success in terms of frightening away major corporations. The sanctions hurt a lot. But Iran is still going to be able to sell oil,” especially to China, she said.

OIL TRADE EXEMPTIONS

Pompeo said the US will grant exemptions to eight countries that have pledged to or have already cut back on purchases of petroleum from Iran, which has long depended on crude exports to power its economy.

He did not name the eight countries, but they are believed to include India, Japan, South Korea, and possibly China.

Pompeo said the countries agreed that the payments for the oil will go into offshore accounts that Iran will only be able to tap for “humanitarian trade, or bilateral trade in non-sanctioned goods and services.”

“Maximum pressure means maximum pressure,” he said.

To punish Iranian banks, US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said the global financial network SWIFT — which enables secure bank-to-bank communications and transactions — will also be subject to US sanctions if it provides services to Iranian financial institutions on the US blacklist, which includes most major Iranian banks.

That could make it very hard for Iran to do business with other countries.

“SWIFT is no different than any other entity,”&nbsp;Mnuchin said.

US OBJECTIVE IN QUESTION

Justifying the action,&nbsp;Pompeo has issued a list of demands for Iran that go well beyond the nuclear program that was the focus of&nbsp;Obama’s deal.

He wants the Shiite clerical regime to withdraw from war-ravaged Syria, where it is a critical ally of President Bashar al-Assad, and to end longstanding support to regional militant movements Hezbollah and Hamas.

The US also wants Iran to stop backing Yemen’s Huthi rebels, who are facing a US-supported air campaign led by Saudi Arabia.

But experts don’t expect Iran’s leaders to immediately throw in the towel.

“It’s basically magical thinking. The Iranians have been able to continue their support to regional proxies and allies for 40 years despite economic pressure,” said Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group.

He said the Trump administration believed that a constrained, struggling Iran would see its influence erode. But the final goal, he said, was unclear.

“I think the endgame depends on who you’re asking. The president himself is interested in having a broader, better deal with the Iranians, but I believe that most of his national security team are interested in either destabilising Iran or assuring a regime change in Tehran,” Mr Vaez said.

The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week.

The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week. The aim is to cripple the Iranian economy to pressure Tehran to halt its nuclear activities and what the US says is broad support for “terrorism” in the region, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said. The reimposition of sanctions “is aimed at depriving the regime of the revenues it uses to spread death and destruction around the world,” Pompeo explained. “Our ultimate aim is to compel Iran to permanently abandon its well-documented outlaw activities and behave as a normal country.” President Trump tweeted what looks like a movie-style poster that takes creative inspiration from the TV series “Game of Thrones” to announce the reimposition of sanctions against Iran. He tweeted a photo of himself with the words “Sanctions are Coming”. pic.twitter.com/nk2vKvHuaL — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 2, 2018 × However, eight countries will be able to continue importing Iranian oil at lower levels in order to avoid upsetting global crude markets when the sanctions take effect on Monday, the US later said. The sanctions come six months after President Donald Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal struck between world powers and Iran. At the time, he began reimposing sanctions that had been suspended or removed by his predecessor Barack Obama. That process will be completed starting from midnight Sunday, US eastern time, when sanctions on the regime’s banks, shippers, shipbuilders and oil sector are imposed. The impact remains in question as other countries, particularly Washington’s European allies, resist joining its effort to economically strangle the Tehran regime. The European Union has gone so far as to protect businesses that operate in Iran. It has announced plans for a legal framework through which firms can skirt US sanctions, although few major corporations have been eager to risk the wrath of penalties in the world’s largest economy. “This is not 2012 when the world was united behind sanctions against Iran. This is the Trump administration trying to force the rest of the world to go along with a policy that most countries do not accept,” said Barbara Slavin, an Iran expert at the Washington-based Atlantic Council. “The US has had some success in terms of frightening away major corporations. The sanctions hurt a lot. But Iran is still going to be able to sell oil,” especially to China, she said. OIL TRADE EXEMPTIONS Pompeo said the US will grant exemptions to eight countries that have pledged to or have already cut back on purchases of petroleum from Iran, which has long depended on crude exports to power its economy. He did not name the eight countries, but they are believed to include India, Japan, South Korea, and possibly China. Pompeo said the countries agreed that the payments for the oil will go into offshore accounts that Iran will only be able to tap for “humanitarian trade, or bilateral trade in non-sanctioned goods and services.” “Maximum pressure means maximum pressure,” he said. To punish Iranian banks, US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said the global financial network SWIFT — which enables secure bank-to-bank communications and transactions — will also be subject to US sanctions if it provides services to Iranian financial institutions on the US blacklist, which includes most major Iranian banks. That could make it very hard for Iran to do business with other countries. “SWIFT is no different than any other entity,” Mnuchin said. US OBJECTIVE IN QUESTION Justifying the action, Pompeo has issued a list of demands for Iran that go well beyond the nuclear program that was the focus of Obama’s deal. He wants the Shiite clerical regime to withdraw from war-ravaged Syria, where it is a critical ally of President Bashar al-Assad, and to end longstanding support to regional militant movements Hezbollah and Hamas. The US also wants Iran to stop backing Yemen’s Huthi rebels, who are facing a US-supported air campaign led by Saudi Arabia. But experts don’t expect Iran’s leaders to immediately throw in the towel. “It’s basically magical thinking. The Iranians have been able to continue their support to regional proxies and allies for 40 years despite economic pressure,” said Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group. He said the Trump administration believed that a constrained, struggling Iran would see its influence erode. But the final goal, he said, was unclear. “I think the endgame depends on who you’re asking. The president himself is interested in having a broader, better deal with the Iranians, but I believe that most of his national security team are interested in either destabilising Iran or assuring a regime change in Tehran,” Mr Vaez said.

'Sanctions are Coming', tweets Trump as US reimposes all sanctions on Iran

US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil.

The United States is preparing to impose the new sanctions on Iran's oil industry after Washington withdrew from a nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers earlier this year, but is also considering offering waivers to some allies that rely on Iranian supplies.

"We want to achieve maximum pressure but we don't want to harm friends and allies either," Bolton said in a talk at the Hamilton Society.

Bolton said the administration understands that a number of countries, some close geographically to Iran which he visited last week, and others "may not be able to go all the way, all the way to zero immediately." It was a more conciliatory tone about the sanctions from Bolton, a proponent of being tough on Iran and winding down its crude exports to zero.

Still, Bolton said that consequences can already be seen in Iran including the collapse of the rial, its currency. "I think it's important that we not relax in the effort," he said.

In a presidential memorandum addressed to secretaries of State, Treasury and Energy, Trump said he determined there was sufficient supply of petroleum and petroleum products elsewhere than Iran to permit a reduction in purchases from the Islamic Republic.

Under the law, the US president must periodically issue a "determination" on whether there is sufficient supply in the market from non-Iranian sources for countries to significantly cut their Iranian purchases.

The administration's renewed sanctions are set to come into effect on November 5.

Under US law, Washington can sanction the financial institutions of foreign countries that fail to significantly reduce their purchases of Iranian oil and petroleum products.

The purpose of the law, which came into effect during the Obama administration, was to put pressure on Iran to curtail its nuclear program by forcing its major oil customers to reduce their purchases.

Three of Iran's five largest buyers of crude - China, India and Turkey - have resisted calls by Washington to end their oil purchases outright.

This week South Korea asked Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for "maximum flexibility" on its request for a waiver to prevent companies there from being hit by the sanctions. Other countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan, depend on some imports from Iran.

The administration has said it is considering waivers on a case-by-case basis.

US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil.

US national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the Trump administration wants sanctions on Iran's crude exports to strain Tehran, but does not want to harm countries that depend on the oil. The United States is preparing to impose the new sanctions on Iran's oil industry after Washington withdrew from a nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers earlier this year, but is also considering offering waivers to some allies that rely on Iranian supplies. "We want to achieve maximum pressure but we don't want to harm friends and allies either," Bolton said in a talk at the Hamilton Society. Bolton said the administration understands that a number of countries, some close geographically to Iran which he visited last week, and others "may not be able to go all the way, all the way to zero immediately." It was a more conciliatory tone about the sanctions from Bolton, a proponent of being tough on Iran and winding down its crude exports to zero. Still, Bolton said that consequences can already be seen in Iran including the collapse of the rial, its currency. "I think it's important that we not relax in the effort," he said. In a presidential memorandum addressed to secretaries of State, Treasury and Energy, Trump said he determined there was sufficient supply of petroleum and petroleum products elsewhere than Iran to permit a reduction in purchases from the Islamic Republic. Under the law, the US president must periodically issue a "determination" on whether there is sufficient supply in the market from non-Iranian sources for countries to significantly cut their Iranian purchases. The administration's renewed sanctions are set to come into effect on November 5. Under US law, Washington can sanction the financial institutions of foreign countries that fail to significantly reduce their purchases of Iranian oil and petroleum products. The purpose of the law, which came into effect during the Obama administration, was to put pressure on Iran to curtail its nuclear program by forcing its major oil customers to reduce their purchases. Three of Iran's five largest buyers of crude - China, India and Turkey - have resisted calls by Washington to end their oil purchases outright. This week South Korea asked Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for "maximum flexibility" on its request for a waiver to prevent companies there from being hit by the sanctions. Other countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan, depend on some imports from Iran. The administration has said it is considering waivers on a case-by-case basis.

US doesn't want to harm friends, allies with Iran sanctions: John Bolton

Shortly after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump announced in May he would reimpose sanctions on Iran, the State Department began telling countries around the world the clock was ticking for them to cut oil purchases from the Islamic Republic to zero.

The strategy is meant to cripple Iran's oil-dependent economy and force Tehran to quash not only its nuclear ambitions, but this time, its ballistic missile program and its influence in Syria.

With just days to go before renewed sanctions take effect November&nbsp;5, the reality is setting in: three of Iran’s top five customers – India, China, and Turkey - are resisting Washington’s call to end purchases outright, arguing there are not sufficient supplies worldwide to replace them, according to sources familiar with the matter.

That pressure, along with worries of a damaging oil price spike, is putting the Trump administration’s hard line to the test and raising the possibility of bilateral deals to allow some buying to continue, according to the sources.

The tension has split the administration into two camps, one led by National Security Adviser John Bolton, who wants the toughest possible approach, and another by State Department officials keen to balance sanctions against preventing an oil price spike that could damage the US&nbsp;and its allies, according to a source briefed by administration officials on the matter.

The global price of oil peaked just below US $87 a barrel this month, a four-year high. Because of that concern, the source said, the administration is considering limited waivers for some Iranian customers until Russia and Saudi Arabia add additional supply next year, while limiting what Tehran can do with the proceeds in the meantime.

Revenues from sales could be escrowed for use by Tehran exclusively for humanitarian purposes, the source, who asked not to be named, said – a mechanism more stringent than a similar one imposed on Iran oil purchases during the last round of sanctions under US&nbsp;President Barack Obama.

“If you’re the administration, you’d like to ensure you don’t have a spike in the price. So, you are better off from mid-2019 onwards to aggressively enforce the barrels side of reducing to zero and in the interim aggressively enforcing the revenue side,” the source said.

Such concessions could be problematic for the White House as it seeks stricter terms than under Obama, who along with European allies imposed sanctions that led to an agreement limiting Iran's nuclear weapons development.

The State Department declined comment for this story, but the administration has confirmed Washington is considering waivers. US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told Reuters that countries will first have to reduce purchases of Iran’s oil by more than the 20 percent level they did under the previous sanctions.

'A BIT UNPREDICTABLE'

US&nbsp;Treasury and State Department teams have traveled to more than two dozen countries since Trump pulled out of the nuclear deal on&nbsp;May 8, warning companies and countries of the dangers of doing business with Iran.

US&nbsp;allies Japan and South Korea have already ceased importing Iran's crude. But the situation is less clear among other, bigger buyers.

Brian Hook, the State Department’s special representative for Iran, and Frank Fannon, State's top US&nbsp;energy diplomat, most recently met with officials in India, Iran’s No. 2 buyer, in mid-October after a US&nbsp;source said for the first time that the administration was actively considering waivers.

An Indian&nbsp;government source said India told the US&nbsp;delegation that rising energy costs caused by a weak rupee and high oil prices meant zeroing out Iranian purchases was impossible until at least March.

“We have told this to the United States, as well as during Brian Hook’s visit,” the source said. “We cannot end oil imports from Iran at a time when alternatives are costly.”

A US&nbsp;diplomat confirmed the discussions, saying limited waivers for India and other countries was possible.

India typically imports over 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) of Iranian oil, but has reduced that level in recent months, according to official data.

Discussions are also underway with Turkey, Iran’s fourth biggest crude buyer, even though Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Turkish ministers have openly criticized the sanctions.

An industry source in Turkey familiar with the talks told Reuters the country had cut Iranian imports in half already, and could get to zero, but would prefer to continue some purchases.

Obama's administration granted a six-month waiver to Turkey, but the source said Turkey expected the Trump administration to impose tougher requirements for obtaining waivers that could potentially cover shorter periods.

“It could be for three months, or they may not get a waiver at all. It is all a bit unpredictable this time, as we understand a lot of things are up to Trump,” the source said.

The situation is least clear in China, Iran’s biggest customer, whose state-owned buyers are also seeking waivers. The country took in between 500,000 and 800,000 bpd from Iran in the past several months, a typical range.

Beijing's signals to its refiners have been mixed, said the two sources. Last week, Reuters reported Sinopec Group and&nbsp;China&nbsp;National Petroleum Corp (CNPC), the country's top state-owned refiners, have not placed orders for Iranian&nbsp;oil&nbsp;for November because of concerns about the sanctions.

Joe McMonigle, energy analyst at Hedgeye in Washington, said he expected the administration would have to accept some level of Iranian oil buying from China, given its consumption.

“Of all the countries, I don’t think they think China is going to zero,” he said.

US&nbsp;State Department's Fannon is scheduled to travel to Asia in coming days, with a speech in Singapore planned for Oct. 30; an official did not say if Fannon would use the trip to discuss Iran with China.

Shortly after US President Donald Trump announced in May he would reimpose sanctions on Iran, the State Department began telling countries around the world the clock was ticking for them to cut oil purchases from the Islamic Republic to zero.

Shortly after US President Donald Trump announced in May he would reimpose sanctions on Iran, the State Department began telling countries around the world the clock was ticking for them to cut oil purchases from the Islamic Republic to zero. The strategy is meant to cripple Iran's oil-dependent economy and force Tehran to quash not only its nuclear ambitions, but this time, its ballistic missile program and its influence in Syria. With just days to go before renewed sanctions take effect November 5, the reality is setting in: three of Iran’s top five customers – India, China, and Turkey - are resisting Washington’s call to end purchases outright, arguing there are not sufficient supplies worldwide to replace them, according to sources familiar with the matter. That pressure, along with worries of a damaging oil price spike, is putting the Trump administration’s hard line to the test and raising the possibility of bilateral deals to allow some buying to continue, according to the sources. The tension has split the administration into two camps, one led by National Security Adviser John Bolton, who wants the toughest possible approach, and another by State Department officials keen to balance sanctions against preventing an oil price spike that could damage the US and its allies, according to a source briefed by administration officials on the matter. The global price of oil peaked just below US $87 a barrel this month, a four-year high. Because of that concern, the source said, the administration is considering limited waivers for some Iranian customers until Russia and Saudi Arabia add additional supply next year, while limiting what Tehran can do with the proceeds in the meantime. Revenues from sales could be escrowed for use by Tehran exclusively for humanitarian purposes, the source, who asked not to be named, said – a mechanism more stringent than a similar one imposed on Iran oil purchases during the last round of sanctions under US President Barack Obama. “If you’re the administration, you’d like to ensure you don’t have a spike in the price. So, you are better off from mid-2019 onwards to aggressively enforce the barrels side of reducing to zero and in the interim aggressively enforcing the revenue side,” the source said. Such concessions could be problematic for the White House as it seeks stricter terms than under Obama, who along with European allies imposed sanctions that led to an agreement limiting Iran's nuclear weapons development. The State Department declined comment for this story, but the administration has confirmed Washington is considering waivers. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told Reuters that countries will first have to reduce purchases of Iran’s oil by more than the 20 percent level they did under the previous sanctions. 'A BIT UNPREDICTABLE' US Treasury and State Department teams have traveled to more than two dozen countries since Trump pulled out of the nuclear deal on May 8, warning companies and countries of the dangers of doing business with Iran. US allies Japan and South Korea have already ceased importing Iran's crude. But the situation is less clear among other, bigger buyers. Brian Hook, the State Department’s special representative for Iran, and Frank Fannon, State's top US energy diplomat, most recently met with officials in India, Iran’s No. 2 buyer, in mid-October after a US source said for the first time that the administration was actively considering waivers. An Indian government source said India told the US delegation that rising energy costs caused by a weak rupee and high oil prices meant zeroing out Iranian purchases was impossible until at least March. “We have told this to the United States, as well as during Brian Hook’s visit,” the source said. “We cannot end oil imports from Iran at a time when alternatives are costly.” A US diplomat confirmed the discussions, saying limited waivers for India and other countries was possible. India typically imports over 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) of Iranian oil, but has reduced that level in recent months, according to official data. Discussions are also underway with Turkey, Iran’s fourth biggest crude buyer, even though Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Turkish ministers have openly criticized the sanctions. An industry source in Turkey familiar with the talks told Reuters the country had cut Iranian imports in half already, and could get to zero, but would prefer to continue some purchases. Obama's administration granted a six-month waiver to Turkey, but the source said Turkey expected the Trump administration to impose tougher requirements for obtaining waivers that could potentially cover shorter periods. “It could be for three months, or they may not get a waiver at all. It is all a bit unpredictable this time, as we understand a lot of things are up to Trump,” the source said. The situation is least clear in China, Iran’s biggest customer, whose state-owned buyers are also seeking waivers. The country took in between 500,000 and 800,000 bpd from Iran in the past several months, a typical range. Beijing's signals to its refiners have been mixed, said the two sources. Last week, Reuters reported Sinopec Group and China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC), the country's top state-owned refiners, have not placed orders for Iranian oil for November because of concerns about the sanctions. Joe McMonigle, energy analyst at Hedgeye in Washington, said he expected the administration would have to accept some level of Iranian oil buying from China, given its consumption. “Of all the countries, I don’t think they think China is going to zero,” he said. US State Department's Fannon is scheduled to travel to Asia in coming days, with a speech in Singapore planned for Oct. 30; an official did not say if Fannon would use the trip to discuss Iran with China.

Trump's Iran sanctions resolve faces test from oil-thirsty China, India

Oil prices on Wednesday clawed back a fraction of their hefty losses the day before that came after Saudi Arabia said it would make up for supply disruptions from US sanctions starting next month on Iran's petroleum exports.

Front-month Brent crude oil futures were at $76.72 a barrel at 0320 GMT, 28 cents, or 0.4 per cent, above their last close.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $66.66 a barrel, up 23 cents, or 0.4 per cent, from their last settlement.

That came after Brent closed down 4.3 per cent and WTI 4 per cent in the previous session.

Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said at an investment conference in Riyadh on Tuesday that despite expected supply disruptions from US sanctions against Iran that kick in from November 4, Saudi Arabia would step up to "meet any demand that materialises to ensure customers are satisfied".

"Oil prices fell substantially ... as Saudi Arabia released assurances it could supply more to the global market," Australia's Rivkin Securities said.

Despite the slump, analysts said markets remained tight because of the looming sanctions.

"We still see Brent reaching $85 per barrel by year-end," said US bank Morgan Stanley.

Into 2019, however, the broader economic outlook could be darkening.

China's state planner said on Wednesday it would step up financial support for regions most hit by the ongoing trade war between Washington and Beijing in which both sides have slapped import tariffs on hundreds of goods.

Meanwhile, South Korea's KOSPI-100 equity index has now fallen by nearly 19 per cent over the past year, the fastest rate of decline since the financial crisis of 2008/09.

The KOSPI-100 has typically correlated closely with growth in international trade, given the South Korean economy's strong orientation towards exports.

Oil prices on Wednesday clawed back a fraction of their hefty losses the day before that came after Saudi Arabia said it would make up for supply disruptions from US sanctions starting next month on Iran's petroleum exports.

Oil prices on Wednesday clawed back a fraction of their hefty losses the day before that came after Saudi Arabia said it would make up for supply disruptions from US sanctions starting next month on Iran's petroleum exports. Front-month Brent crude oil futures were at $76.72 a barrel at 0320 GMT, 28 cents, or 0.4 per cent, above their last close. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $66.66 a barrel, up 23 cents, or 0.4 per cent, from their last settlement. That came after Brent closed down 4.3 per cent and WTI 4 per cent in the previous session. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said at an investment conference in Riyadh on Tuesday that despite expected supply disruptions from US sanctions against Iran that kick in from November 4, Saudi Arabia would step up to "meet any demand that materialises to ensure customers are satisfied". "Oil prices fell substantially ... as Saudi Arabia released assurances it could supply more to the global market," Australia's Rivkin Securities said. Despite the slump, analysts said markets remained tight because of the looming sanctions. "We still see Brent reaching $85 per barrel by year-end," said US bank Morgan Stanley. Into 2019, however, the broader economic outlook could be darkening. China's state planner said on Wednesday it would step up financial support for regions most hit by the ongoing trade war between Washington and Beijing in which both sides have slapped import tariffs on hundreds of goods. Meanwhile, South Korea's KOSPI-100 equity index has now fallen by nearly 19 per cent over the past year, the fastest rate of decline since the financial crisis of 2008/09. The KOSPI-100 has typically correlated closely with growth in international trade, given the South Korean economy's strong orientation towards exports.

Oil edges back from big slump as Iran sanctions return to focus

The United States today dismissed the order passed by the International Court of Justice(ICJ) ordering the Trump administration to halt sanctions on "humanitarian" goods to Iran.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/halt-sanctions-humanitarian-goods-iran-un-court-iran-169167">Also</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/halt-sanctions-humanitarian-goods-iran-un-court-iran-169167"> Read:&nbsp;Halt sanctions on humanitarian goods to Iran, says&nbsp;ICJ&nbsp;to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/halt-sanctions-humanitarian-goods-iran-un-court-iran-169167">US</a>

"This is a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction," US ambassador to the Netherlands Pete Hoekstra&nbsp;said after the ruling at UN's top court.

Hoekstra added that ICJ had "declined to grant the sweeping measures requested by Iran" and it was "a narrow decision on a very limited range of sectors."

"The court considers that the United States, in accordance with its obligations under the 1955 treaty must remove by means of its choosing any impediment arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018 to the free exportation to the territory of Iran of goods required for humanitarian needs," the ICJ said.

The world court called for US sanctions exception on "medicines and medical devices, food&nbsp;stuff and agricultural commodities as well as goods and services required for the safety of civil aviation such as spare parts, equipment and associated services necessary for civil aircraft."

"In its opinion, the measures adopted by the United States have the potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the lives of its users to the extent that they prevent Iranian airlines from acquiring spare parts and other necessary equipment as well as from accessing associated services necessary for civil aircraft," it added.

"Unanimously both parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve," the UN court ordered.&nbsp;

Iran called the ruling a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right".

The ruling by the International Court of Justice "once again shows that the US government... is day by day becoming more isolated," Iran's forign ministry said in a statement.

The UN's top court gave its judgement after Iran had filed a case against the US for imposing sanctions against it. Iran said the sanctions violated the 1955 Treaty of Amity. The US had argued that Iran was misusing the international court.

The 1955 treaty was signed before Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution after which US relations with Iran deterioted.

The United States today dismissed the order passed by the International Court of Justice(ICJ) ordering the Trump administration to halt sanctions on "humanitarian" goods to Iran.

The United States today dismissed the order passed by the International Court of Justice(ICJ) ordering the Trump administration to halt sanctions on "humanitarian" goods to Iran. Also Read: Halt sanctions on humanitarian goods to Iran, says ICJ to US "This is a meritless case over which the court has no jurisdiction," US ambassador to the Netherlands Pete Hoekstra said after the ruling at UN's top court. Hoekstra added that ICJ had "declined to grant the sweeping measures requested by Iran" and it was "a narrow decision on a very limited range of sectors." "The court considers that the United States, in accordance with its obligations under the 1955 treaty must remove by means of its choosing any impediment arising from the measures announced on 8 May 2018 to the free exportation to the territory of Iran of goods required for humanitarian needs," the ICJ said. The world court called for US sanctions exception on "medicines and medical devices, food stuff and agricultural commodities as well as goods and services required for the safety of civil aviation such as spare parts, equipment and associated services necessary for civil aircraft." "In its opinion, the measures adopted by the United States have the potential to endanger civil aviation safety in Iran and the lives of its users to the extent that they prevent Iranian airlines from acquiring spare parts and other necessary equipment as well as from accessing associated services necessary for civil aircraft," it added. "Unanimously both parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the court or make it more difficult to resolve," the UN court ordered. Iran called the ruling a "clear sign" that "Iran is in the right". The ruling by the International Court of Justice "once again shows that the US government... is day by day becoming more isolated," Iran's forign ministry said in a statement. The UN's top court gave its judgement after Iran had filed a case against the US for imposing sanctions against it. Iran said the sanctions violated the 1955 Treaty of Amity. The US had argued that Iran was misusing the international court. The 1955 treaty was signed before Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution after which US relations with Iran deterioted.

ICJ ruling on Iran meritless, says US

Oil prices are likely to climb continuously into next year, as concerns over drops in supply from the likes of Iran and Venezuela outweigh any worry that global trade disputes could undermine demand, a Reuters poll showed on Friday.

A survey of 50 economists and analysts forecast Brent crude to average $73.48 a barrel in 2018, up from the $72.71 forecast in August and the $72.68 average so far this year. Brent was forecast to average $73.75 in 2019.

This is the highest projection for the benchmark for both 2018 and 2019 in the polls this year.

"Concerns over global trade disputes have not yet really affected economic growth, but the sanctions on Iran already have had an impact on Iranian exports and output," said Frank Schallenberger, head of commodity research at LBBW.

"If an export destination like South Korea is not willing to buy Iranian oil anymore, there is a high probability that output from Iran could drop some 500,000-1 million bpd. This is really bad news for the supply side - and especially also for the consumers - as prices could go up even further."

Iranian exports of crude and condensates have declined by 0.8 million barrels a day (mbd) from April to September, according to the Institute of International Finance, ahead of the November 4 US&nbsp;sanctions on the third largest producer in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.

Brent prices have risen more than 20 per cent since the beginning of April.

Analysts expect a reduction of anywhere between 500,000 and 1.5 million bpd in Iranian supply due to the sanctions, with most expecting Saudi Arabia to take the lead in filling any supply gaps.

"The best is yet to come with a fourth-quarter of $80+/bbl driven by still strong oil demand growth, expectation of a significant drop in Iranian exports to 1 mbd by year-end and an only limited willingness by OPEC to ramp-up output to exhaust spare capacity," said Jan Edelmann, commodities analyst at HSH Nordbank AG.

However, an escalating trade dispute between the United States and China, the world's largest consumer of commodities, could affect demand growth, especially next year, analysts said.

"Uncertainty about possible effects of a trade war between the U.S. and China could dampen some of the upside risks triggered by the supply issues," said Hans van Cleef, senior energy economist at ABN Amro.

Meanwhile, US&nbsp;crude futures were forecast to average $67.29 a barrel in 2018, compared with the $67.13 consensus last month and an average of $66.76 until now.

A majority of participants saw growth in US&nbsp;shale oil output slowing over the remainder of 2018 and into next year due to infrastructure problems.

Oil prices are likely to climb continuously into next year, as concerns over drops in supply from the likes of Iran and Venezuela outweigh any worry that global trade disputes could undermine demand, a Reuters poll showed on Friday.

Oil prices are likely to climb continuously into next year, as concerns over drops in supply from the likes of Iran and Venezuela outweigh any worry that global trade disputes could undermine demand, a Reuters poll showed on Friday. A survey of 50 economists and analysts forecast Brent crude to average $73.48 a barrel in 2018, up from the $72.71 forecast in August and the $72.68 average so far this year. Brent was forecast to average $73.75 in 2019. This is the highest projection for the benchmark for both 2018 and 2019 in the polls this year. "Concerns over global trade disputes have not yet really affected economic growth, but the sanctions on Iran already have had an impact on Iranian exports and output," said Frank Schallenberger, head of commodity research at LBBW. "If an export destination like South Korea is not willing to buy Iranian oil anymore, there is a high probability that output from Iran could drop some 500,000-1 million bpd. This is really bad news for the supply side - and especially also for the consumers - as prices could go up even further." Iranian exports of crude and condensates have declined by 0.8 million barrels a day (mbd) from April to September, according to the Institute of International Finance, ahead of the November 4 US sanctions on the third largest producer in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. Brent prices have risen more than 20 per cent since the beginning of April. Analysts expect a reduction of anywhere between 500,000 and 1.5 million bpd in Iranian supply due to the sanctions, with most expecting Saudi Arabia to take the lead in filling any supply gaps. "The best is yet to come with a fourth-quarter of $80+/bbl driven by still strong oil demand growth, expectation of a significant drop in Iranian exports to 1 mbd by year-end and an only limited willingness by OPEC to ramp-up output to exhaust spare capacity," said Jan Edelmann, commodities analyst at HSH Nordbank AG. However, an escalating trade dispute between the United States and China, the world's largest consumer of commodities, could affect demand growth, especially next year, analysts said. "Uncertainty about possible effects of a trade war between the U.S. and China could dampen some of the upside risks triggered by the supply issues," said Hans van Cleef, senior energy economist at ABN Amro. Meanwhile, US crude futures were forecast to average $67.29 a barrel in 2018, compared with the $67.13 consensus last month and an average of $66.76 until now. A majority of participants saw growth in US shale oil output slowing over the remainder of 2018 and into next year due to infrastructure problems.

Oil to rise as Iran sanctions outweigh demand risks from trade wars: Report

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday communicated information over India's engagement over Iran sanctions at the United Nations General Assembly session adding that, "India remains engaged with all stakeholders who are a part of the process, Iran is one of them."&nbsp;

"It was natural the issue of sanctions did come up during the meeting. We shared each others' position about where we stand at this point in time," Kumar stated. &nbsp;

"Foreign Minister of Iran shared parts of the discussions which they were having with the European Union. We heard them out and explained our position. As far as the sanctions on Iran goes, we are also engaged with other stakeholders, other countries," news agency ANI quoted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.&nbsp;

"Recently we had a 2+2 dialogue with the US where we sensitised them of our concerns, sensitivities and expectations. We felt there was a bit of understanding from the US side on our position. We're working towards ensuring our energy security and national security," the MEA stated.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Foreign Minister of Iran shared parts of the discussions which they were having with the EU. We heard them out&amp;explained our position. As far as the sanctions on Iran goes, we are also engaged with other stakeholders, other countries: Raveesh Kumar, MEA on Iran nuclear sanctions <a href="https://t.co/JI8p2GmoXG">pic.twitter.com/JI8p2GmoXG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1045108081800237057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India's comment on Iran comes at a time when US President Donald Trump took his campaign to isolate Iran to the UN Security Council on Wednesday.

Trump accused Tehran of spreading chaos at a meeting that laid bare divisions between Washington and key allies.

Addressing the council after Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron hit back, declaring that concerns about Iran cannot be reduced to "a policy of sanctions and containment" that was in place for years before the landmark deal.

"We need to build together a long-term strategy to manage the crisis that cannot be reduced to a policy of sanctions and containment of Iran," said Macron.

The United States has moved to reimpose sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 deal to curb Iran's nuclear program and has vowed to punish foreign firms that do business with Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday communicated information over India's engagement over Iran sanctions at the United Nations General Assembly session adding that, "India remains engaged with all stakeholders who are a part of the process, Iran is one of them.

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Wednesday communicated information over India's engagement over Iran sanctions at the United Nations General Assembly session adding that, "India remains engaged with all stakeholders who are a part of the process, Iran is one of them." "It was natural the issue of sanctions did come up during the meeting. We shared each others' position about where we stand at this point in time," Kumar stated. "Foreign Minister of Iran shared parts of the discussions which they were having with the European Union. We heard them out and explained our position. As far as the sanctions on Iran goes, we are also engaged with other stakeholders, other countries," news agency ANI quoted MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. "Recently we had a 2+2 dialogue with the US where we sensitised them of our concerns, sensitivities and expectations. We felt there was a bit of understanding from the US side on our position. We're working towards ensuring our energy security and national security," the MEA stated. Foreign Minister of Iran shared parts of the discussions which they were having with the EU. We heard them out&explained our position. As far as the sanctions on Iran goes, we are also engaged with other stakeholders, other countries: Raveesh Kumar, MEA on Iran nuclear sanctions pic.twitter.com/JI8p2GmoXG — ANI (@ANI) September 27, 2018 × India's comment on Iran comes at a time when US President Donald Trump took his campaign to isolate Iran to the UN Security Council on Wednesday. Trump accused Tehran of spreading chaos at a meeting that laid bare divisions between Washington and key allies. Addressing the council after Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron hit back, declaring that concerns about Iran cannot be reduced to "a policy of sanctions and containment" that was in place for years before the landmark deal. "We need to build together a long-term strategy to manage the crisis that cannot be reduced to a policy of sanctions and containment of Iran," said Macron. The United States has moved to reimpose sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 deal to curb Iran's nuclear program and has vowed to punish foreign firms that do business with Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran shared parts of its discussions with EU; we heard, explained our position: MEA on Iran sanctions

Oil rose on Thursday, supported by expectations of renewed U.S. sanctions on Iran, declining output in Venezuela and continuing strong demand.

Brent crude oil futures were last up 90 cents at $74.90 a barrel at 1204 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 66 cents to $68.71 per barrel.

The oil price has risen by 15 percent in the last four weeks thanks to expectations that the United States will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a major oil producer and member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday he expected U.S. President Donald Trump to pull out of a deal with Iran reached in 2015 in which the Islamic Republic suspended its nuclear programme in return for Western powers lifting crippling sanctions.

Trump will decide by May 12 whether to restore U.S. sanctions on Tehran, which would probably result in a reduction of Iranian oil exports.

"Geopolitical concerns in the Middle East, together with Venezuela’s deteriorating macroeconomic situation, are supporting oil prices. It is widely anticipated that President Trump will pull the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear deal, which is bullish for prices, said Abhishek Kumar, senior energy analyst at Interfax Energy's Global Gas Analytics.

"However, (the) full impact of the move will not materialise unless it is supported by European allies of the U.S."

Venezuela's crude production has fallen from almost 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in early 2016 to around 1.5 million bpd due to a political and economic crisis.

Plunging Venezuelan output and looming U.S. sanctions against Iran come against a backdrop of strong demand, above all in Asia, the world's biggest oil-consuming region.

However, not all market indicators point towards tighter supplies.

US&nbspcrude oil inventories rose by 2.2 million barrels in the week to April 20 to 429.74 million barrels.

US&nbspcrude production rose by 46,000 bpd on the previous week, to 10.59 bpd.

Soaring U.S. output has made WTI crude around $6 per barrel cheaper than Brent and drawn exports to record highs.

Dutch bank ING said "the wide discount for WTI to Brent saw exports rising 582,000 bpd week-on-week to a record high of 2.33 million bpd."

With U.S. output and exports surging, some analysts warn that the 20 percent climb in Brent prices since February is starting to look overdone.

"The market does look a little&nbsptoppish," said Greg McKenna,&nbspchief&nbspmarket strategist at futures brokerage AxiTrader.

Venezuela's crude production has fallen from almost 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in early 2016 to around 1.5 million bpd due to a political and economic crisis.

Oil rose on Thursday, supported by expectations of renewed U.S. sanctions on Iran, declining output in Venezuela and continuing strong demand. Brent crude oil futures were last up 90 cents at $74.90 a barrel at 1204 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 66 cents to $68.71 per barrel. The oil price has risen by 15 percent in the last four weeks thanks to expectations that the United States will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a major oil producer and member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday he expected U.S. President Donald Trump to pull out of a deal with Iran reached in 2015 in which the Islamic Republic suspended its nuclear programme in return for Western powers lifting crippling sanctions. Trump will decide by May 12 whether to restore U.S. sanctions on Tehran, which would probably result in a reduction of Iranian oil exports. "Geopolitical concerns in the Middle East, together with Venezuela’s deteriorating macroeconomic situation, are supporting oil prices. It is widely anticipated that President Trump will pull the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear deal, which is bullish for prices, said Abhishek Kumar, senior energy analyst at Interfax Energy's Global Gas Analytics. "However, (the) full impact of the move will not materialise unless it is supported by European allies of the U.S." Venezuela's crude production has fallen from almost 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in early 2016 to around 1.5 million bpd due to a political and economic crisis. Plunging Venezuelan output and looming U.S. sanctions against Iran come against a backdrop of strong demand, above all in Asia, the world's biggest oil-consuming region. However, not all market indicators point towards tighter supplies. US&nbspcrude oil inventories rose by 2.2 million barrels in the week to April 20 to 429.74 million barrels. US&nbspcrude production rose by 46,000 bpd on the previous week, to 10.59 bpd. Soaring U.S. output has made WTI crude around $6 per barrel cheaper than Brent and drawn exports to record highs. Dutch bank ING said "the wide discount for WTI to Brent saw exports rising 582,000 bpd week-on-week to a record high of 2.33 million bpd." With U.S. output and exports surging, some analysts warn that the 20 percent climb in Brent prices since February is starting to look overdone. "The market does look a little&nbsptoppish," said Greg McKenna,&nbspchief&nbspmarket strategist at futures brokerage AxiTrader.

Oil rises as concern heats up over Iran sanctions, Venezuelan output

The United States imposed sanctions on Friday on 10 Iranians and an Iranian company for alleged hacking hundreds of universities in the US and abroad and the theft of &quot;valuable intellectual property and data.&quot;

The Mabna Institute engaged in &quot;the theft of personal identifiers and economic resources for private financial gain&quot; and for the benefit of Iran&#39;s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the US Treasury Department said.

The two founders of the Mabna Institute are among the 10 people whose assets are subject to US seizure, it said. Nine of the 10 were indicted separately for conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and other charges.

The United States imposed sanctions on Friday on 10 Iranians and an Iranian company for alleged hacking hundreds of universities in the US and abroad and the theft of 'valuable intellectual property and data'

The United States imposed sanctions on Friday on 10 Iranians and an Iranian company for alleged hacking hundreds of universities in the US and abroad and the theft of "valuable intellectual property and data." The Mabna Institute engaged in "the theft of personal identifiers and economic resources for private financial gain" and for the benefit of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the US Treasury Department said. The two founders of the Mabna Institute are among the 10 people whose assets are subject to US seizure, it said. Nine of the 10 were indicted separately for conspiracy to commit computer intrusions and other charges.

US imposes sanctions on Iranians for hacking

Iran on Saturday condemned new sanctions passed by the US Congress against its missile programme, which President Donald Trump is set to sign into law, and vowed to continue it.

&quot;We will continue with full power our missile programme,&quot; foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi told state broadcaster IRIB.

&quot;We consider the action by the US as hostile, reprehensible and unacceptable, and it&#39;s ultimately an effort to weaken the nuclear deal,&quot; Ghasemi added, referring to a 2015 agreement with the United States and other world powers that lifted some sanctions on Tehran.

&quot;The military and missile fields... are our domestic policies and others have no right to intervene or comment on them.

&quot;We reserve the right to reciprocate and make an adequate response to the US actions,&quot; he said.

The sanctions bill, which also targets Russia and North Korea, was passed by the US Senate on Thursday, two days after being approved by the House of Representatives.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said on Friday that President Donald Trump will sign the bill into law.

Separately on Friday, Washington imposed new sanctions targeting Iran&#39;s missile programme a day after Tehran tested a satellite-launch rocket.

The US Treasury singled out six companies owned or controlled by Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group, which it said was central to the programme, freezing their US assets and barring US citizens from dealing with them.

The sanctions bill, which also targets Russia and North Korea, was passed by the US Senate on Thursday, two days after being approved by the House of Representatives

Iran on Saturday condemned new sanctions passed by the US Congress against its missile programme, which President Donald Trump is set to sign into law, and vowed to continue it. "We will continue with full power our missile programme," foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi told state broadcaster IRIB. "We consider the action by the US as hostile, reprehensible and unacceptable, and it's ultimately an effort to weaken the nuclear deal," Ghasemi added, referring to a 2015 agreement with the United States and other world powers that lifted some sanctions on Tehran. "The military and missile fields... are our domestic policies and others have no right to intervene or comment on them. "We reserve the right to reciprocate and make an adequate response to the US actions," he said. The sanctions bill, which also targets Russia and North Korea, was passed by the US Senate on Thursday, two days after being approved by the House of Representatives. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said on Friday that President Donald Trump will sign the bill into law. Separately on Friday, Washington imposed new sanctions targeting Iran's missile programme a day after Tehran tested a satellite-launch rocket. The US Treasury singled out six companies owned or controlled by Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group, which it said was central to the programme, freezing their US assets and barring US citizens from dealing with them.

Iran to carry on missile programme, condemns US sanctions

The US Senate voted nearly unanimously on Thursday for legislation to impose new sanctions on Russia, and to force President Donald Trump to get Congress&#39; approval before easing any existing sanctions on Russia.

In a move that could complicate US President Donald Trump&#39;s desire for warmer relations with Moscow, the Senate backed the measure by 98-2. Republican Senator Rand Paul and Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, were the only two &quot;no&quot; votes.

The measure is intended to punish Russia for meddling in the 2016 US election, annexation of Ukraine&#39;s Crimea region and support for Syria&#39;s government in the six-year-long civil war.

If passed, it would put into law sanctions previously established via former President Barack Obama&#39;s executive orders, including some on Russian energy projects. It allows new sanctions on Russian mining, metals, shipping and railways and targets Russians guilty of conducting cyber attacks or supplying weapons to Syria&#39;s government.

&quot;The legislation sends a very, very strong signal to Russia, the nefarious activities they&#39;ve been involved in,&quot; Senator Bob Corker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said as lawmakers debated the measure.

If the measure became law, it could complicate relations with some countries in Europe. Germany and Austria said the new punitive measures could expose European companies involved in projects in Russia to fines.

The legislation sets up a review process that would require Trump to get Congress&#39; approval before taking any action to ease, suspend or lift any sanctions on Russia.

Trump was especially effusive about Russian president Vladimir Putin during the 2016 US&nbsp;election campaign, though his openness to closer ties to Moscow has tempered somewhat, with his administration on the defensive over investigations into alleged Russian meddling in the election.

Putin dismissed the proposed sanctions, saying they reflected an internal political struggle in the United States, and that Washington&#39;s policy of imposing sanctions on Moscow had always been to try to contain Russia.

The bill also includes new sanctions on Iran over its ballistic missile programme and other activities not related to the international nuclear agreement reached with the United States and other world powers.

To become law, the legislation must pass the House of Representatives and be signed by Trump. House aides said they expected the chamber would begin to debate the measure in coming weeks. They could not predict when it might face a final vote.

Secretary of state Rex Tillerson had questioned the legislation on Wednesday, urging Congress to ensure that any legislation &quot;allows the president to have the flexibility to adjust sanctions to meet the needs of what is always an evolving diplomatic situation&quot;.

However, aides in both chambers said they expected support for the bill would be strong enough to override a Trump veto if necessary.

Previously, US&nbsp;energy sanctions had only targeted Russia&#39;s future high-tech energy projects, such as drilling for oil in the Arctic, fracking and offshore drilling. They blocked US&nbsp;companies such as Exxon Mobil, where Tillerson was chairman, from investing in such projects.

The new bill would slap sanctions on companies in other countries looking to invest in those projects in the absence of US&nbsp;companies, a practice known as backfilling.

Also included for the first time are discretionary measures the Trump administration could impose on investments by companies in Western countries on Russia energy export pipelines to Europe.

Lawmakers also voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to add provisions to the bill allowing the US&nbsp;space agency NASA to continue using Russian-made rocket engines and reaffirming the US&nbsp;commitment to the NATO alliance.

The measure is intended to punish Russia for meddling in the 2016 US election, annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region and support for Syria's government in the six-year-long civil war

The US Senate voted nearly unanimously on Thursday for legislation to impose new sanctions on Russia, and to force President Donald Trump to get Congress' approval before easing any existing sanctions on Russia. In a move that could complicate US President Donald Trump's desire for warmer relations with Moscow, the Senate backed the measure by 98-2. Republican Senator Rand Paul and Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with the Democrats, were the only two "no" votes. The measure is intended to punish Russia for meddling in the 2016 US election, annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region and support for Syria's government in the six-year-long civil war. If passed, it would put into law sanctions previously established via former President Barack Obama's executive orders, including some on Russian energy projects. It allows new sanctions on Russian mining, metals, shipping and railways and targets Russians guilty of conducting cyber attacks or supplying weapons to Syria's government. "The legislation sends a very, very strong signal to Russia, the nefarious activities they've been involved in," Senator Bob Corker, the Republican chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said as lawmakers debated the measure. If the measure became law, it could complicate relations with some countries in Europe. Germany and Austria said the new punitive measures could expose European companies involved in projects in Russia to fines. The legislation sets up a review process that would require Trump to get Congress' approval before taking any action to ease, suspend or lift any sanctions on Russia. Trump was especially effusive about Russian president Vladimir Putin during the 2016 US election campaign, though his openness to closer ties to Moscow has tempered somewhat, with his administration on the defensive over investigations into alleged Russian meddling in the election. Putin dismissed the proposed sanctions, saying they reflected an internal political struggle in the United States, and that Washington's policy of imposing sanctions on Moscow had always been to try to contain Russia. The bill also includes new sanctions on Iran over its ballistic missile programme and other activities not related to the international nuclear agreement reached with the United States and other world powers. To become law, the legislation must pass the House of Representatives and be signed by Trump. House aides said they expected the chamber would begin to debate the measure in coming weeks. They could not predict when it might face a final vote. Secretary of state Rex Tillerson had questioned the legislation on Wednesday, urging Congress to ensure that any legislation "allows the president to have the flexibility to adjust sanctions to meet the needs of what is always an evolving diplomatic situation". However, aides in both chambers said they expected support for the bill would be strong enough to override a Trump veto if necessary. Previously, US energy sanctions had only targeted Russia's future high-tech energy projects, such as drilling for oil in the Arctic, fracking and offshore drilling. They blocked US companies such as Exxon Mobil, where Tillerson was chairman, from investing in such projects. The new bill would slap sanctions on companies in other countries looking to invest in those projects in the absence of US companies, a practice known as backfilling. Also included for the first time are discretionary measures the Trump administration could impose on investments by companies in Western countries on Russia energy export pipelines to Europe. Lawmakers also voted overwhelmingly on Thursday to add provisions to the bill allowing the US space agency NASA to continue using Russian-made rocket engines and reaffirming the US commitment to the NATO alliance.

US Senate votes near unanimously for Russia, Iran sanctions

Iran announced it will take &quot;reciprocal action&quot; against US individuals and companies after President Donald Trump&#39;s administration on Friday imposed new sanctions on Tehran over its weapons procurement network.

&quot;The Islamic Republic of Iran, in response to the new move by the United States of America and as a reciprocal action, will impose legal limitations for some American individuals and companies that have had a role in the creation and support of extreme terrorist groups in the region,&quot; the foreign ministry said in a statement.

US officials said its measures were in response to Iran&#39;s latest ballistic missile test and its support for Shiite Huthi rebels in Yemen who in the past week targeted a Saudi warship

(AFP)

Iran announced reciprocal action on US after it was hit by fresh sanctions by Trump administration

Iran announced it will take "reciprocal action" against US individuals and companies after President Donald Trump's administration on Friday imposed new sanctions on Tehran over its weapons procurement network. "The Islamic Republic of Iran, in response to the new move by the United States of America and as a reciprocal action, will impose legal limitations for some American individuals and companies that have had a role in the creation and support of extreme terrorist groups in the region," the foreign ministry said in a statement. US officials said its measures were in response to Iran's latest ballistic missile test and its support for Shiite Huthi rebels in Yemen who in the past week targeted a Saudi warship (AFP)

Iran's riposte to US sanctions: To put restrictions on US individuals, firms that back 'regional extremist groups'

The US government is expected to impose sanctions on Iran as tensions between the two countries spiked after&nbsp;US claims that&nbsp;Iran test-fired a ballistic missile. The sanctions are likely to be levied on individuals or entities linked to Iran&#39;s missile program and will be taken under existing presidential powers, AFP reported.

Tehran slammed the US warnings as &quot;provocative&quot; on Thursday. Iran has not confirmed or denied that the ballistic missile testing took place. The spokesman for Iran&#39;s foreign ministry,&nbsp;<a href="http://en.mehrnews.com/news/123184/Missile-test-Iran-s-absolute-right" target="_blank">Bahram Ghasemi, said</a>,&nbsp;&ldquo;regardless of authenticity and nature of these reports, it is a principal policy for Iran to test ballistic missiles in full compliance with the country&rsquo;s basic rights and international commitments&rdquo;.

Responding to a question by a journalist on whether military action is off the table, Trump replied: &quot;Nothing is off the table.&quot;&nbsp;Earlier, the president had tweeted that Iran has been &quot;formally put on notice&quot; after it test-fired a ballistic missile.

The US National Security Advisor Michael Flynn, on Wednesday, had excoriated Iran for its &quot;destabilising behaviour&quot; in the West Asias region.&nbsp;Newly appointed US ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, on Tuesday, had termed Iran&#39;s missile test as &quot;absolutely unacceptable&quot;.

Tension between the US and Iran is on the rise after Trump&#39;s election as the US president as the president during his election campaign had constantly threatened that he would tear up the 2015 international nuclear agreemnet with Iran. 
&nbsp; 
Iran is among the seven countries that have been put on the immigration ban list. &nbsp;

(WION with inputs from AFP) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Earlier, the president had said Iran had been 'formally put on notice' after test-launching a ballistic missile

The US government is expected to impose sanctions on Iran as tensions between the two countries spiked after US claims that Iran test-fired a ballistic missile. The sanctions are likely to be levied on individuals or entities linked to Iran's missile program and will be taken under existing presidential powers, AFP reported. Tehran slammed the US warnings as "provocative" on Thursday. Iran has not confirmed or denied that the ballistic missile testing took place. The spokesman for Iran's foreign ministry, Bahram Ghasemi, said, “regardless of authenticity and nature of these reports, it is a principal policy for Iran to test ballistic missiles in full compliance with the country’s basic rights and international commitments”. Responding to a question by a journalist on whether military action is off the table, Trump replied: "Nothing is off the table." Earlier, the president had tweeted that Iran has been "formally put on notice" after it test-fired a ballistic missile. The US National Security Advisor Michael Flynn, on Wednesday, had excoriated Iran for its "destabilising behaviour" in the West Asias region. Newly appointed US ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, on Tuesday, had termed Iran's missile test as "absolutely unacceptable". Tension between the US and Iran is on the rise after Trump's election as the US president as the president during his election campaign had constantly threatened that he would tear up the 2015 international nuclear agreemnet with Iran. Iran is among the seven countries that have been put on the immigration ban list. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Trump administration mulls sanctions against Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Iran on Monday of launching a ballistic missile in what he said constitutes a &quot;flagrant violation&quot; of a UN Security Council resolution.

In a statement on his Facebook page, Netanyahu said he intended to &quot;raise the renewal of sanctions against Iran in this context and in other contexts&quot; in his upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump.

The White House said on Monday that Trump will host Netanyahu on February 15.

Israel`s archfoe Iran has carried out a number of missile tests in recent months, which the United States and European governments have said are a breach of its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal.

Western powers say the missiles are capable of carrying nuclear warheads and therefore go against the deal, while Iran says its missile programme is &quot;non-negotiable&quot;.

Israel had opposed the deal between Iran and major powers, which lifted a wide range of international sanctions in exchange for limits on Iran`s nuclear programme.

&quot;Iranian aggression must not go unanswered,&quot; Netanyahu wrote on Monday.

(AFP)

Netanyahu, in a social media post, said he intended to bring up the issue of renewal of sanctions against Iran in his meeting with Trump

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Iran on Monday of launching a ballistic missile in what he said constitutes a "flagrant violation" of a UN Security Council resolution. In a statement on his Facebook page, Netanyahu said he intended to "raise the renewal of sanctions against Iran in this context and in other contexts" in his upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump. The White House said on Monday that Trump will host Netanyahu on February 15. Israel`s archfoe Iran has carried out a number of missile tests in recent months, which the United States and European governments have said are a breach of its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal. Western powers say the missiles are capable of carrying nuclear warheads and therefore go against the deal, while Iran says its missile programme is "non-negotiable". Israel had opposed the deal between Iran and major powers, which lifted a wide range of international sanctions in exchange for limits on Iran`s nuclear programme. "Iranian aggression must not go unanswered," Netanyahu wrote on Monday. (AFP)

Israel's Netanyahu slams Iran for missile test, says will raise 'renewal of sanctions' in meeting with Trump

iran-sanctions

Iran Sanctions, News on Iran Sanctions, stories on Iran Sanctions, articles on Iran Sanctions, Iran Sanctions stories at Wion, Iran Sanctions news, Iran Sanctions latest news

iran sanctions