Do you know Iran has a city of Missiles? It's a never-ending underground corridor of scores of missile systems. The location is unknown, but the message is clear & is directed at the Joe Biden administration. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Iran unveils new city of Missiles

According to a US intelligence report released on Tuesday, Russia and Iran both carried out operations to try to interfere in the 2020 presidential election between Joe Biden and Donald Trump.

US: Russia and Iran tried to interfere in US Elections 2020

Iran has released images of the new revolutionary guards base armed with cruise and ballistic missile and 'electronic warfare' equipment.

Iran releases video of revolutionary guards 'missile city' base

The United States should act quickly to revive Iran's nuclear deal because once Iran's presidential election period kicks off it is unlikely much will happen until later this year, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said on Monday.&nbsp;

Speaking at the European Policy Centre think tank, Zarif repeated Tehran's longstanding demand that Washington returns first to compliance by lifting sanctions.&nbsp;

Former US President Donald Trump abandoned the deal, known as the JCPOA, under which Iran accepted curbs to its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions. Since then, Washington has reimposed sanctions and Tehran has responded by violating some of the conditions of the deal.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden aims to restore the deal, but Tehran and Washington each want the other side to comply first.&nbsp;

"The Europeans are used to compromise. Iran and the United States are not. The Americans are used to imposing, and we are used to resisting," Zarif said. "So now is the time to decide will we both compromise and go back to the JCPOA, or will we go back to our own paths?"&nbsp;

Zarif said that he had seen no change between the Biden administration and the Trump administration's policy of maximum pressure to force Iran back to the negotiating table. He said he saw no reason to hold preliminary talks because the US was making 'extraneous' demands.&nbsp;

"There is a time constraint and that is once we go to our election, it is a lame-duck government and (it) will not be able to do anything serious and then, we will have a waiting period of almost six months," he said, referring to a presidential election due on June 18.&nbsp;

"It is advisable for the United States move fast and moving fast requires them not be shy, but takes measures that they need to take."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States should act quickly to revive Iran's nuclear deal because once Iran's presidential election period kicks off it is unlikely much will happen until later this year, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said on Monday.

The United States should act quickly to revive Iran's nuclear deal because once Iran's presidential election period kicks off it is unlikely much will happen until later this year, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said on Monday. Speaking at the European Policy Centre think tank, Zarif repeated Tehran's longstanding demand that Washington returns first to compliance by lifting sanctions. Former US President Donald Trump abandoned the deal, known as the JCPOA, under which Iran accepted curbs to its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions. Since then, Washington has reimposed sanctions and Tehran has responded by violating some of the conditions of the deal. President Joe Biden aims to restore the deal, but Tehran and Washington each want the other side to comply first. "The Europeans are used to compromise. Iran and the United States are not. The Americans are used to imposing, and we are used to resisting," Zarif said. "So now is the time to decide will we both compromise and go back to the JCPOA, or will we go back to our own paths?" Zarif said that he had seen no change between the Biden administration and the Trump administration's policy of maximum pressure to force Iran back to the negotiating table. He said he saw no reason to hold preliminary talks because the US was making 'extraneous' demands. "There is a time constraint and that is once we go to our election, it is a lame-duck government and (it) will not be able to do anything serious and then, we will have a waiting period of almost six months," he said, referring to a presidential election due on June 18. "It is advisable for the United States move fast and moving fast requires them not be shy, but takes measures that they need to take." (With inputs from agencies)

Time running out for US to revive nuclear deal: Iran's Foreign Minister 

Israel is highly likely to have been behind an attack in the Mediterranean this week that damaged an Iranian container ship, an Iranian investigator said on Saturday, Iran's media reported.&nbsp;

The Shahr e Kord vessel was hit by an explosive object which caused a small fire, but no one on board was hurt, Iran said on Friday. Two maritime security sources said initial indications suggested the ship was intentionally targeted by an unknown source.&nbsp;

"Considering the geographical location and the way the ship was targeted, one of the strong possibilities is that this terrorist operation was carried out by the Zionist regime (Israel)," an unnamed member of the Iranian team investigating the incident was quoted as saying by semi-official Nournews.&nbsp;

Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz declined to comment directly about the incident when addressing a webinar on Saturday hosted by his Blue and White party, but he said, Iran regularly sent weapons to its proxies in the region.&nbsp;

"We foil arms supplies and other things relating to operational development and military capabilities by air, sea and land," Gantz said. "And by this, I am not saying whether we did or did not do this or that."&nbsp;

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said reports confirmed an act of sabotage in violation of international law, state media said. "Measures to identify the perpetrators of this sabotage action are on the agenda," he said.&nbsp;

The Iranian investigator said explosive projectiles could have been fired from an aerial vehicle, hitting containers on the ship's deck.&nbsp;

Iran's state-run shipping company IRISL said it would take legal action to identify the perpetrators of the attack, which it called terrorism and naval piracy.&nbsp;

The incident came two weeks after an Israeli-owned ship the MV HELIOS RAY was hit by an explosion in the Gulf of Oman.&nbsp;

The cause was not immediately clear, although a US defence official said the blast left holes in both sides of the vessel's hull. Israel accused Iran of being behind the explosion, a charge the Islamic Republic denied.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Israel is highly likely to have been behind an attack in the Mediterranean this week that damaged an Iranian container ship, an Iranian investigator said on Saturday, Iran's media reported.

Israel is highly likely to have been behind an attack in the Mediterranean this week that damaged an Iranian container ship, an Iranian investigator said on Saturday, Iran's media reported. The Shahr e Kord vessel was hit by an explosive object which caused a small fire, but no one on board was hurt, Iran said on Friday. Two maritime security sources said initial indications suggested the ship was intentionally targeted by an unknown source. "Considering the geographical location and the way the ship was targeted, one of the strong possibilities is that this terrorist operation was carried out by the Zionist regime (Israel)," an unnamed member of the Iranian team investigating the incident was quoted as saying by semi-official Nournews. Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz declined to comment directly about the incident when addressing a webinar on Saturday hosted by his Blue and White party, but he said, Iran regularly sent weapons to its proxies in the region. "We foil arms supplies and other things relating to operational development and military capabilities by air, sea and land," Gantz said. "And by this, I am not saying whether we did or did not do this or that." Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said reports confirmed an act of sabotage in violation of international law, state media said. "Measures to identify the perpetrators of this sabotage action are on the agenda," he said. The Iranian investigator said explosive projectiles could have been fired from an aerial vehicle, hitting containers on the ship's deck. Iran's state-run shipping company IRISL said it would take legal action to identify the perpetrators of the attack, which it called terrorism and naval piracy. The incident came two weeks after an Israeli-owned ship the MV HELIOS RAY was hit by an explosion in the Gulf of Oman. The cause was not immediately clear, although a US defence official said the blast left holes in both sides of the vessel's hull. Israel accused Iran of being behind the explosion, a charge the Islamic Republic denied. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel likely behind container ship attack: Iranian investigator  

Several Iranian coastguard personnel were wounded after protesters attacked the coastguard base, said local media. As per the reports, the clash erupted after a young man was killed in a confrontation between the coastguard and fuel smugglers.

The incident occurred Friday after smugglers in boats in the Sirik area of the Hormuz Strait ignored coastguard warning shots, ultra-conservative Kayhan newspaper quoted their provincial commander Hossein Dehaki as saying.

Dehaki was quoted as saying that the guards opened fire after they came under attack from the smugglers with fire bombs and other projectiles.

Iranian media said a 31-year-old Sirik resident was killed. 
Hours later, villagers gathered outside the base to demonstrate against the killing, according to state television's Iribnews website, citing a local official.

Dehaki said the protesters, spurred on by "opponents" of the Islamic republic, launched an assault on the coastguard building, seriously injuring several members of the force and causing heavy damage.

This violence has come less than three weeks after deadly clashes with fuel smugglers in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province that borders Pakistan.

The UN Human Rights Office said at least 12 people were reportedly killed, two of them minors, and accused Iranian security forces of using excessive force.

(With AFP inputs)

Several Iranian coastguard personnel were wounded after protesters attacked the coastguard base, said local media. As per the reports, the clash erupted after a young man was killed in a confrontation between the coastguard and fuel smugglers.

Several Iranian coastguard personnel were wounded after protesters attacked the coastguard base, said local media. As per the reports, the clash erupted after a young man was killed in a confrontation between the coastguard and fuel smugglers. The incident occurred Friday after smugglers in boats in the Sirik area of the Hormuz Strait ignored coastguard warning shots, ultra-conservative Kayhan newspaper quoted their provincial commander Hossein Dehaki as saying. Dehaki was quoted as saying that the guards opened fire after they came under attack from the smugglers with fire bombs and other projectiles. Iranian media said a 31-year-old Sirik resident was killed. Hours later, villagers gathered outside the base to demonstrate against the killing, according to state television's Iribnews website, citing a local official. Dehaki said the protesters, spurred on by "opponents" of the Islamic republic, launched an assault on the coastguard building, seriously injuring several members of the force and causing heavy damage. This violence has come less than three weeks after deadly clashes with fuel smugglers in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province that borders Pakistan. The UN Human Rights Office said at least 12 people were reportedly killed, two of them minors, and accused Iranian security forces of using excessive force. (With AFP inputs)

Protesters attack Iran coastguard base, several persons wounded

British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe appeared in a Tehran court Sunday to face new charges of "propaganda against the system", a week after she finished serving a five-year sentence, her lawyer said.&nbsp;

"The hearing took place in a very calm and good atmosphere, in the presence of my client," Hojjat Kermani said,&nbsp;adding that the judgement would be handed down at a later and unspecified date.

The 42-year-old dual national was prosecuted for "propaganda against the system for having participated in a rally in front of the Iranian embassy in London" in 2009.

She had been under house arrest since the pandemic and her electronic ankle tag was removed last weekend but the summons means she cannot return home and has raised fears she could face a new sentence.&nbsp;

She was ordered to appear on a separate security charge. Her husband Richard said the British embassy in Tehran had declined to accompany his wife to Sunday's trial.

It is also being reported that Zaghari-Ratcliff needs urgent treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, a rights group said Friday, as she faces the fresh Tehran court appearance.

A remote medical evaluation by International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims found Zaghari-Ratcliffe suffers from "serious and chronic post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder", according to rights group Redress.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It says the former detainee's mental health problems are "due to her treatment in prison and under house arrest", as well as the ongoing legal uncertainty and separation from her family.

She spent long periods in solitary confinement, has physical problems including pain in her neck, shoulder and arm, tooth pain and lumps in her breast that have not been properly checked, Redress said.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe works for the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the media organisation.

Her husband and supporters have said she and other dual nationals were being held as political hostages because of a long-standing dispute between London and Tehran over a failed arms deal.

Britain has repeatedly urged Iran to allow her to return home, where her husband, Richard Ratcliffe, and their six-year-old daughter live.

British foreign minister Dominic Raab welcomed the removal of the ankle tag but said Iran continued to put Zaghari-Ratcliffe and her family through a "cruel and an intolerable ordeal".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in a call with Iranian Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday, said Zaghari-Ratcliffe must be allowed to return home to her family.

Iranian media reported that during the call, Rouhani raised the issue of a 400-million-pound historical debt which Tehran says Britain owes the Islamic Republic in capital and interest for a 1970s arms deal with the then-Shah of Iran.

(with inputs from agencies)

British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe appeared in a Tehran court Sunday to face new charges of "propaganda against the system", a week after she finished serving a five-year sentence, her lawyer said.

British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe appeared in a Tehran court Sunday to face new charges of "propaganda against the system", a week after she finished serving a five-year sentence, her lawyer said. "The hearing took place in a very calm and good atmosphere, in the presence of my client," Hojjat Kermani said, adding that the judgement would be handed down at a later and unspecified date. The 42-year-old dual national was prosecuted for "propaganda against the system for having participated in a rally in front of the Iranian embassy in London" in 2009. She had been under house arrest since the pandemic and her electronic ankle tag was removed last weekend but the summons means she cannot return home and has raised fears she could face a new sentence. She was ordered to appear on a separate security charge. Her husband Richard said the British embassy in Tehran had declined to accompany his wife to Sunday's trial. It is also being reported that Zaghari-Ratcliff needs urgent treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, a rights group said Friday, as she faces the fresh Tehran court appearance. A remote medical evaluation by International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims found Zaghari-Ratcliffe suffers from "serious and chronic post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder", according to rights group Redress. It says the former detainee's mental health problems are "due to her treatment in prison and under house arrest", as well as the ongoing legal uncertainty and separation from her family. She spent long periods in solitary confinement, has physical problems including pain in her neck, shoulder and arm, tooth pain and lumps in her breast that have not been properly checked, Redress said. Zaghari-Ratcliffe works for the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the media organisation. Her husband and supporters have said she and other dual nationals were being held as political hostages because of a long-standing dispute between London and Tehran over a failed arms deal. Britain has repeatedly urged Iran to allow her to return home, where her husband, Richard Ratcliffe, and their six-year-old daughter live. British foreign minister Dominic Raab welcomed the removal of the ankle tag but said Iran continued to put Zaghari-Ratcliffe and her family through a "cruel and an intolerable ordeal". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in a call with Iranian Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday, said Zaghari-Ratcliffe must be allowed to return home to her family. Iranian media reported that during the call, Rouhani raised the issue of a 400-million-pound historical debt which Tehran says Britain owes the Islamic Republic in capital and interest for a 1970s arms deal with the then-Shah of Iran. (with inputs from agencies)

Trial of British-Iranian national Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe on new charge held in Iran

Iran on Saturday denounced an attack on Iranian ship as "sabotage". The ship named Shahr-e-Kord was hit with "an explosive device" while it was en route from Iran to Europe on Wednesday, as per spokesperson of Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines group (IRISL) which owns the ship.

Iran "received information confirming that the ship suffered a sabotage attack", foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said in a statement.

Khatibzadeh confirmed that the incident "caused damage to the vessel". He did not elaborate on type and extent of the damage.

He condemned the attack as "a flagrant violation of international law and maritime law".

IRISL&nbsp;called the incident a "terrorist action and an example of maritime piracy".

"A small fire started where the explosion had occurred, but it was quickly extinguished... and none of the crew were hurt," he said.

Khatibzadeh said Tehran was following up on the incident to "identify the perpetrators".

The ship was struck less than two weeks after Israel accused arch nemesis Iran of being behind an attack on an Israeli-owned ship in the Gulf of Oman, charges Tehran has strongly denied.

The United States blacklisted IRISL in mid-2020 over what the State Department described as the transportation of items related to Iran's missile and nuclear programme.

Iran on Saturday denounced an attack on Iranian ship as "sabotage". The ship named Shahr-e-Kord was hit with "an explosive device" while it was en route from Iran to Europe on Wednesday, as per spokesperson of Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines group (IRISL) which owns the ship.

Iran on Saturday denounced an attack on Iranian ship as "sabotage". The ship named Shahr-e-Kord was hit with "an explosive device" while it was en route from Iran to Europe on Wednesday, as per spokesperson of Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines group (IRISL) which owns the ship. Iran "received information confirming that the ship suffered a sabotage attack", foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said in a statement. Khatibzadeh confirmed that the incident "caused damage to the vessel". He did not elaborate on type and extent of the damage. He condemned the attack as "a flagrant violation of international law and maritime law". IRISL called the incident a "terrorist action and an example of maritime piracy". "A small fire started where the explosion had occurred, but it was quickly extinguished... and none of the crew were hurt," he said. Khatibzadeh said Tehran was following up on the incident to "identify the perpetrators". The ship was struck less than two weeks after Israel accused arch nemesis Iran of being behind an attack on an Israeli-owned ship in the Gulf of Oman, charges Tehran has strongly denied. The United States blacklisted IRISL in mid-2020 over what the State Department described as the transportation of items related to Iran's missile and nuclear programme.

Iran condemns 'sabotage' of ship in Mediterranean

A report has revealed that Israel has bombed at least a dozen Syria-bound ships in the last two years, most of which have been carrying Iranian oil.&nbsp;

The report by the Wall Street Journal said the attacks included deploying water mines in the Red Sea and some of these assaults blocked Iranian move to send weaponry to Syria. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/israeli-jets-escort-us-b-52-bombers-amid-iran-tensions-368927/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The oil supplies were targetted over concerns "that petroleum profits are funding extremism in the Middle East," it said.

None of the tankers sank, but the strikes forced two tankers to return back to Iranian ports.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/israeli-jets-escort-us-b-52-bombers-amid-iran-tensions-368735">Israeli jets escort US B-52 bombers amid Iran tensions</a>

Israel has neither confirmed nor denied the report so far.&nbsp;

The revelations come amid two recent tanker attacks in the region and could further deteriorate ties between the arch-nemesis.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A report has revealed that Israel has bombed at least a dozen Syria-bound ships in the last two years, most of which have been carrying Iranian oil. The report by the Wall Street Journal said the attacks included deploying water mines in the Red Sea and some of these assaults blocked Iranian move to send weaponry to Syria.

A report has revealed that Israel has bombed at least a dozen Syria-bound ships in the last two years, most of which have been carrying Iranian oil. The report by the Wall Street Journal said the attacks included deploying water mines in the Red Sea and some of these assaults blocked Iranian move to send weaponry to Syria. Watch | The oil supplies were targetted over concerns "that petroleum profits are funding extremism in the Middle East," it said. None of the tankers sank, but the strikes forced two tankers to return back to Iranian ports. Also read | Israeli jets escort US B-52 bombers amid Iran tensions Israel has neither confirmed nor denied the report so far. The revelations come amid two recent tanker attacks in the region and could further deteriorate ties between the arch-nemesis.

Israel bombed dozen Iranian ships carrying oil to Syria in last 2 years: Report

India becomes the global hub of coronavirus vaccines after the COVAXIN doses reached 65 nations and recently Iran was also added to the list after it got its 125,000 doses of COVAXIN from India.

Coronavirus update: Iran receives its first shipment of COVAXIN from India

Iran slammed the United States on Thursday for continuing to follow former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's </a>policy of applying "maximum pressure".&nbsp;

"US claims it favours diplomacy; not Trump's failed policy of 'maximum pressure'," Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Twitter.

"Yet (US Secretary of State Antony Blinken) boasts abt (about) blocking Korea from transferring our OWN money to the Swiss Channel -- only used for food &amp; meds."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-urges-us-iran-to-step-up-efforts-on-nuke-deal-369301/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said sticking to the same approach will not "yield new results" for the US.&nbsp;

The Iranian foreign minister's comments came hours after Blinken hinted of the US continuing to oppose the release of Iranian funds worth billions of dollars until Tehran commits to full compliance with a nuclear deal.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
South Korea, an ally of the US, last month said it agreed on a way to release the Iranian money from oil sales but was waiting for Washington's nod.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-to-offer-constructive-plan-amid-hopes-of-informal-nuclear-talks-368392">Iran's Zarif to offer 'constructive' plan amid hopes of informal nuclear talks</a>

"...unless and until Iran comes back into compliance, they won't be getting that relief," Blinken said.&nbsp;

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>has insisted Iran to comply with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, a nuclear deal that was scrapped by Trump which further raised tensions between Tehran and Washington.&nbsp;

Iran slammed the United States on Thursday for continuing to follow former president Donald Trump's policy of applying "maximum pressure". "US claims it favours diplomacy; not Trump's failed policy of 'maximum pressure'," Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Twitter.

Iran slammed the United States on Thursday for continuing to follow former president Donald Trump's policy of applying "maximum pressure". "US claims it favours diplomacy; not Trump's failed policy of 'maximum pressure'," Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Twitter. "Yet (US Secretary of State Antony Blinken) boasts abt (about) blocking Korea from transferring our OWN money to the Swiss Channel -- only used for food & meds." Watch | He said sticking to the same approach will not "yield new results" for the US. The Iranian foreign minister's comments came hours after Blinken hinted of the US continuing to oppose the release of Iranian funds worth billions of dollars until Tehran commits to full compliance with a nuclear deal. South Korea, an ally of the US, last month said it agreed on a way to release the Iranian money from oil sales but was waiting for Washington's nod. Also read | Iran's Zarif to offer 'constructive' plan amid hopes of informal nuclear talks "...unless and until Iran comes back into compliance, they won't be getting that relief," Blinken said. US President Joe Biden has insisted Iran to comply with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, a nuclear deal that was scrapped by Trump which further raised tensions between Tehran and Washington.

Iran slams US, says Trump's policy of 'maximum pressure' won't do any good

Russia has called on the United States and Iran to take mutual steps and coordinate efforts to rejoin the nuclear deal. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that to resolve the issue Iranians and the US must take synchronous steps.

Russia urges US, Iran to step up efforts on nuke deal

A British-Australian academic has claimed Iran tried to recruit her as a spy in exchange for her freedom when she was imprisoned in the country.

Middle East scholar Kylie Moore-Gilbert was arrested in 2018 and sentenced to 10 years in jail for espionage, an allegation she has denied. She was arrested by the hardline Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps after attending an academic conference in the holy city of Qom in central Iran.

In her first media interview since returning to Australia last November, she said&nbsp;Iranian officials asked her "many times" to&nbsp;work as a spy.

"I knew that the reason that they didn't engage in any meaningful negotiations with the Australians was because they wanted to recruit me. They wanted me (to work) for them as a spy," she told Sky News Australia on Tuesday.

Moore-Gilbert also said she was beaten during her detention and suffered "psychological torture" from spending seven months in solitary confinement. She said at times she "felt broken" by the experience of prison and had suicidal thoughts.

"It is so damaging. I would say I felt physical pain from the psychological trauma I had in that room," she said.

"It is a two-by-two metre box -- there is no toilet, there is no television, there is nothing whatsoever."

Moore-Gilbert also criticised the Australian government's approach to her case, which involved keeping it quiet from the media while negotiating behind the scenes for her release.

"I think had my ordeal been made public, there's no way I would have got 10 years," she said.

She was released reportedly in a swap for three Iranians linked to a botched plot to kill Israeli officials in Bangkok.

Moore-Gilbert added that "much greater attention" was paid to her health and wellbeing once her detention made headlines.

A British-Australian academic has claimed Iran tried to recruit her as a spy in exchange for her freedom when she was imprisoned in the country. Middle East scholar Kylie Moore-Gilbert was arrested in 2018 and sentenced to 10 years in jail for espionage, an allegation she has denied.

A British-Australian academic has claimed Iran tried to recruit her as a spy in exchange for her freedom when she was imprisoned in the country. Middle East scholar Kylie Moore-Gilbert was arrested in 2018 and sentenced to 10 years in jail for espionage, an allegation she has denied. She was arrested by the hardline Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps after attending an academic conference in the holy city of Qom in central Iran. In her first media interview since returning to Australia last November, she said Iranian officials asked her "many times" to work as a spy. "I knew that the reason that they didn't engage in any meaningful negotiations with the Australians was because they wanted to recruit me. They wanted me (to work) for them as a spy," she told Sky News Australia on Tuesday. Moore-Gilbert also said she was beaten during her detention and suffered "psychological torture" from spending seven months in solitary confinement. She said at times she "felt broken" by the experience of prison and had suicidal thoughts. "It is so damaging. I would say I felt physical pain from the psychological trauma I had in that room," she said. "It is a two-by-two metre box -- there is no toilet, there is no television, there is nothing whatsoever." Moore-Gilbert also criticised the Australian government's approach to her case, which involved keeping it quiet from the media while negotiating behind the scenes for her release. "I think had my ordeal been made public, there's no way I would have got 10 years," she said. She was released reportedly in a swap for three Iranians linked to a botched plot to kill Israeli officials in Bangkok. Moore-Gilbert added that "much greater attention" was paid to her health and wellbeing once her detention made headlines.

British-Australian academic says Iran tried to recruit her as spy

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), has been hanging by a thread since former US president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018 and reimposed punishing sanctions on Tehran.

Following Joe Biden's US presidential election victory in November, the US, the European parties to the deal -- France, Germany and Britain -- and Tehran have been trying to salvage the accord.

The deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), has been hanging by a thread since former US president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018 and reimposed punishing sanctions on Tehran.

The deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), has been hanging by a thread since former US president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018 and reimposed punishing sanctions on Tehran. Following Joe Biden's US presidential election victory in November, the US, the European parties to the deal -- France, Germany and Britain -- and Tehran have been trying to salvage the accord.

Iran's Rouhani urges Europe to avoid 'threats or pressure'

According to reports, Iran has quietly moved record amounts of crude oil to top client China in recent months, while India's state refiners have added Iranian oil to their annual import plans on the assumption that US sanctions on the OPEC supplier will soon ease.

Reports: Iran slips record volume of oil into China, reaches out to Asian clients

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman jailed in Tehran has finally had her ankle tag removed. She was arrested at Tehran airport in 2016 and convicted of plotting the overthrow of the Iranian regime.

Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe released as ankle tag removed but faces new charges

The United Nations has said as many as 23 people were killed in Iran's Sistan Baluchistan province when authorities opened fire on fuel porters and protestors last month. &nbsp;

In a crackdown on cross-border fuel trade, Iran's Revolutionary Guards reportedly used live ammunition on a group of people transporting fuel across the Iranian border with Pakistan.&nbsp;

Shooting on February 22 left 10 Baluchi people dead and five injured in the town of Saravan, Al-Monitor reported. The shooting has sparked protests across southeastern Iran, during which security forces reportedly fired on the crowds to disperse them. &nbsp;

According to Baluchi human rights defenders, two people, including a child, were fatally shot during the protests. A spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Rupert Colville on Friday said, "According to some estimates, which we are unable to confirm, as many as 23 people may have been killed in all."&nbsp;

"In Iran, we condemn use of force violations in recent weeks by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and state security forces against unarmed fuel couriers and protesters belonging to the Baluch minority, which has reportedly led to the killing of at least 12 individuals, including at least two minors," he said. &nbsp;

"We are deeply concerned by the widespread shutdown of the internet across several cities in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, with the apparent purpose of preventing access to information about what is happening there. Blanket internet shutdowns violate the principles of necessity and proportionality applicable to restrictions of freedom of expression and constitute a violation of international human rights law," he added.&nbsp;

Colville called on the authorities to immediately restore internet access in areas that remain disconnected. Deploring the systematic intentional use of lethal force by Iranian border officials, especially against border couriers from the Kurdish and Baluch minorities, the UN body called for immediate measures to end the impunity that perpetuates this practice.&nbsp;

"During 2020, a total of 59 Kurdish couriers were reported to have been killed by border officials in provinces in the north-west of Iran. We call for prompt, impartial and full investigations into all such killings, and accountability for those found to be responsible for unlawful use of force leading to death or serious injury. Victims and their families have the right to truth and redress," he said.&nbsp;

Located along Iran's border with Pakistan, Sistan-Baluchestan is among Iran's poorest provinces and is rife with drug traffickers and separatist ethnic Baluch militants. The region is majority Sunni Muslim, whereas Iran's population is majority Shiite. Baluch rights activists organised a demonstration in the Pakistani port city of Karachi this week to protest the violence. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United Nations has said as many as 23 people were killed in Iran's Sistan Baluchistan province when authorities opened fire on fuel porters and protestors last month.

The United Nations has said as many as 23 people were killed in Iran's Sistan Baluchistan province when authorities opened fire on fuel porters and protestors last month. In a crackdown on cross-border fuel trade, Iran's Revolutionary Guards reportedly used live ammunition on a group of people transporting fuel across the Iranian border with Pakistan. Shooting on February 22 left 10 Baluchi people dead and five injured in the town of Saravan, Al-Monitor reported. The shooting has sparked protests across southeastern Iran, during which security forces reportedly fired on the crowds to disperse them. According to Baluchi human rights defenders, two people, including a child, were fatally shot during the protests. A spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Rupert Colville on Friday said, "According to some estimates, which we are unable to confirm, as many as 23 people may have been killed in all." "In Iran, we condemn use of force violations in recent weeks by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and state security forces against unarmed fuel couriers and protesters belonging to the Baluch minority, which has reportedly led to the killing of at least 12 individuals, including at least two minors," he said. "We are deeply concerned by the widespread shutdown of the internet across several cities in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, with the apparent purpose of preventing access to information about what is happening there. Blanket internet shutdowns violate the principles of necessity and proportionality applicable to restrictions of freedom of expression and constitute a violation of international human rights law," he added. Colville called on the authorities to immediately restore internet access in areas that remain disconnected. Deploring the systematic intentional use of lethal force by Iranian border officials, especially against border couriers from the Kurdish and Baluch minorities, the UN body called for immediate measures to end the impunity that perpetuates this practice. "During 2020, a total of 59 Kurdish couriers were reported to have been killed by border officials in provinces in the north-west of Iran. We call for prompt, impartial and full investigations into all such killings, and accountability for those found to be responsible for unlawful use of force leading to death or serious injury. Victims and their families have the right to truth and redress," he said. Located along Iran's border with Pakistan, Sistan-Baluchestan is among Iran's poorest provinces and is rife with drug traffickers and separatist ethnic Baluch militants. The region is majority Sunni Muslim, whereas Iran's population is majority Shiite. Baluch rights activists organised a demonstration in the Pakistani port city of Karachi this week to protest the violence. (With inputs from agencies)

UN condemns killing of 23 people at Iran's border with Pakistan 

The military said it escorted two US bombers. The flight of the pair of B-52 bombers is the latest mission in the region aimed at warning Iran amid tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Israeli jets escort US B-52 bombers amid Iran tensions

A B-52 US bomber has been deployed over the Israeli skies and this also has been done a second time in the Biden administration. Israeli fighter jets have escorted the bombers in the skies. A step has been taken to deter aggression between Iran and the US.

US flies two B-52 bombers over Israel amid tensions with Iran

In Erbil, thousands attend largest mass of Pope's historic trip to Iraq

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani Sunday urged Europe to avoid "threats or pressure" in any negotiations with Tehran, as he received Ireland's foreign minister amid diplomatic efforts to revive a landmark nuclear deal.

Ireland is currently "facilitator" for the United Nations Security Council resolution that enshrined the 2015 nuclear accord between Iran and six major powers, according to the Irish foreign ministry.

The deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), has been hanging by a thread since former US president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018 and reimposed punishing sanctions on Tehran.

Following Joe Biden's US presidential election victory in November, the US, the European parties to the deal -- France, Germany and Britain -- and Tehran have been trying to salvage the accord.

"The best way to solve problems with European partners at various bilateral, regional and international levels, is negotiations based on mutual respect and avoiding any threats or pressure," Rouhani told Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney at Sunday's meeting, according to a statement by the Iranian presidency.

Ireland is not party to the nuclear deal, but currently sits on the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

As &nbsp;"facilitator" for the UNSC resolution enshrining the nuclear deal, Dublin is tasked with keeping other council members briefed with implementation of the deal.

The Iranian president criticised Europe's "inactivity on JCPOA commitments", and added that Iran is committed to "preserving the JCPOA and is the only party that has paid a price for it."

"But this situation cannot continue as it is," Rouhani stressed.

"Preserving and reviving" the deal requires all sides to act on their commitments, he said.

The three European parties to the nuclear deal on Thursday scrapped a draft resolution at the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency that criticised Iran's suspension of some nuclear inspections, a move welcomed by Tehran.

Biden has signalled his readiness to revive the deal, but insists Iran first return to all its nuclear commitments, most of which it suspended in response to the US sanctions.

Tehran meanwhile demands Washington take the first step by scrapping the sanctions.

- 'Committed to cooperation' -

Iran on February 23 started to restrict some IAEA inspections.

But a visit to Tehran by the UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi just before the restriction came into force led to an interim technical deal for up to three months.

The arrangement would allow the body to continue monitoring "all the key activities," Rossi said at the time.

Rouhani noted that "Iran still remains committed to cooperation with the IAEA."

He added that Iran is ready to reverse the restrictions "after the lifting of America's illegal sanctions, and it stopping the policy of threats and pressure."

Coveney met with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif later on Sunday.

Iran's top diplomat repeated Tehran's stance on "the necessity of the complete and effective lifting of America's illegal sanctions", the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Zarif said on Twitter on Friday that he will soon present Tehran's "constructive concrete plan of action -- through proper diplomatic channels".

Coveney's visit also comes after Ireland announced its plan to designate a charge d'affaires to Tehran and reestablish its embassy in Iran by 2023.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani Sunday urged Europe to avoid "threats or pressure" in any negotiations with Tehran, as he received Ireland's foreign minister amid diplomatic efforts to revive a landmark nuclear deal.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani Sunday urged Europe to avoid "threats or pressure" in any negotiations with Tehran, as he received Ireland's foreign minister amid diplomatic efforts to revive a landmark nuclear deal. Ireland is currently "facilitator" for the United Nations Security Council resolution that enshrined the 2015 nuclear accord between Iran and six major powers, according to the Irish foreign ministry. The deal, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), has been hanging by a thread since former US president Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018 and reimposed punishing sanctions on Tehran. Following Joe Biden's US presidential election victory in November, the US, the European parties to the deal -- France, Germany and Britain -- and Tehran have been trying to salvage the accord. "The best way to solve problems with European partners at various bilateral, regional and international levels, is negotiations based on mutual respect and avoiding any threats or pressure," Rouhani told Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney at Sunday's meeting, according to a statement by the Iranian presidency. Ireland is not party to the nuclear deal, but currently sits on the UN Security Council. As "facilitator" for the UNSC resolution enshrining the nuclear deal, Dublin is tasked with keeping other council members briefed with implementation of the deal. The Iranian president criticised Europe's "inactivity on JCPOA commitments", and added that Iran is committed to "preserving the JCPOA and is the only party that has paid a price for it." "But this situation cannot continue as it is," Rouhani stressed. "Preserving and reviving" the deal requires all sides to act on their commitments, he said. The three European parties to the nuclear deal on Thursday scrapped a draft resolution at the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency that criticised Iran's suspension of some nuclear inspections, a move welcomed by Tehran. Biden has signalled his readiness to revive the deal, but insists Iran first return to all its nuclear commitments, most of which it suspended in response to the US sanctions. Tehran meanwhile demands Washington take the first step by scrapping the sanctions. - 'Committed to cooperation' - Iran on February 23 started to restrict some IAEA inspections. But a visit to Tehran by the UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi just before the restriction came into force led to an interim technical deal for up to three months. The arrangement would allow the body to continue monitoring "all the key activities," Rossi said at the time. Rouhani noted that "Iran still remains committed to cooperation with the IAEA." He added that Iran is ready to reverse the restrictions "after the lifting of America's illegal sanctions, and it stopping the policy of threats and pressure." Coveney met with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif later on Sunday. Iran's top diplomat repeated Tehran's stance on "the necessity of the complete and effective lifting of America's illegal sanctions", the foreign ministry said in a statement. Zarif said on Twitter on Friday that he will soon present Tehran's "constructive concrete plan of action -- through proper diplomatic channels". Coveney's visit also comes after Ireland announced its plan to designate a charge d'affaires to Tehran and reestablish its embassy in Iran by 2023.

Tehran has released British-Iranian aid worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, removing her ankle tag after a five-year prison sentence.

She was jailed for plotting to overthrow the clerical establishment.

"She was pardoned by Iran's supreme leader last year, but spent the last year of her term under house arrest with electronic shackles tied to her feet. Now they're cast off," her lawyer and a British lawmaker said on Sunday.

A hearing for Zaghari-Ratcliffe's second case has been scheduled on March 8.

Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, was arrested at a Tehran airport in April 2016 as she prepared to head back to Britain with her daughter after a family visit.

She was later sentenced to five years in jail after being convicted of plotting to overthrow Iran's clerical establishment. She was released from jail in March last year and put under house arrest in Tehran in response to concerns about the spread of COVID-19 in Iran's prisons, but her movements were restricted and she was barred from leaving the country.

British foreign minister Dominic Raab welcomed her release but said Iran's continued treatment of her remained "intolerable".

British lawmaker Tulip Siddiq said she had spoken to Zaghari-Ratcliffe's family and that they told her she had had her ankle tag removed, but has been summoned again to court.

"I have been in touch with Nazanin's family. Some news: 1) Thankfully her ankle tag has been removed. Her first trip will be to see her grandmother. 2) Less positive - she has been summoned once again to court next Sunday," Siddiq, who is the member of parliament for where Zaghari-Ratcliffe used to live, said on Twitter. 
&nbsp;

Tehran has released British-Iranian aid worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, removing her ankle tag after a five-year prison sentence. She was jailed for plotting to overthrow the clerical establishment.

Tehran has released British-Iranian aid worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, removing her ankle tag after a five-year prison sentence. She was jailed for plotting to overthrow the clerical establishment. "She was pardoned by Iran's supreme leader last year, but spent the last year of her term under house arrest with electronic shackles tied to her feet. Now they're cast off," her lawyer and a British lawmaker said on Sunday. A hearing for Zaghari-Ratcliffe's second case has been scheduled on March 8. Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a project manager with the Thomson Reuters Foundation, was arrested at a Tehran airport in April 2016 as she prepared to head back to Britain with her daughter after a family visit. She was later sentenced to five years in jail after being convicted of plotting to overthrow Iran's clerical establishment. She was released from jail in March last year and put under house arrest in Tehran in response to concerns about the spread of COVID-19 in Iran's prisons, but her movements were restricted and she was barred from leaving the country. British foreign minister Dominic Raab welcomed her release but said Iran's continued treatment of her remained "intolerable". British lawmaker Tulip Siddiq said she had spoken to Zaghari-Ratcliffe's family and that they told her she had had her ankle tag removed, but has been summoned again to court. "I have been in touch with Nazanin's family. Some news: 1) Thankfully her ankle tag has been removed. Her first trip will be to see her grandmother. 2) Less positive - she has been summoned once again to court next Sunday," Siddiq, who is the member of parliament for where Zaghari-Ratcliffe used to live, said on Twitter.

British-Iranian aid worker Zaghari-Ratcliffe freed by Tehran

The historic meeting of Pope Francis and Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, one of Shiite Islam's top clerics, was well received across Iranian media.

The meeting became front-page news in Iran Sunday, with some media declaring it a chance for peace in the neighbouring country.

The pontiff's historic visit to Iraq that began on Friday. Tehran, with its allies within Baghdad's state-sponsored Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force, helped Iraqi troops defeat the Sunni jihadist Islamic State (IS) group at the end of 2017.

Iran's reformist Sazandegi daily said the two religious leaders are now "the standard-bearers of world peace" and called their meetings "the most effective event (in the history of) dialogue between religions".

Another reformist daily, Shargh, said it was "a symbolic spectacle showing the importance of cooperation between followers of different religions".

"Victory for Shiism and Christianity," wrote the government-run Iran daily in a front-page column, saying that the pope's visit showed that "Christianity is alive in Iraq" despite the "suffering" caused by the IS.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-prays-for-victims-of-war-in-mosul-a-former-islamic-state-stronghold-in-iraq-368586">Also read |&nbsp;Pope Francis prays for 'victims of war' in Mosul, a former Islamic State stronghold in Iraq</a>

Iran's conservative dailies noted that the return of security to Iraq was the result of efforts by "resistance" forces, recalling Sistani's call in 2014 for Iraqis to take up arms against the jihadists.

"Pope Francis and many western countries must be aware that this freedom (to travel to Iraq) owes much to the blood of the courageous youth of the resistance axis and the wisdom of the Shiite authority," said the ultraconservative Resalat.

It added that the meeting could be "a valuable opportunity for peace and to alleviate the suffering of the Iraqi people, especially the Christians affected by the Islamic State's invasion".

Another ultraconservative publication, Kayhan, said that "the security of Iraqi Christians" and Muslims was made possible through the "sacrifice" of "young Iraqis" commanded by Iran's General Qasem Soleimani and Hashed deputy Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who were killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad in January 2020.

(with inputs from AFP)

The historic meeting of Pope Francis and Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, one of Shiite Islam's top clerics, was well received across Iranian media. The meeting became front-page news in Iran Sunday, with some media declaring it a chance for peace in the neighbouring country.

The historic meeting of Pope Francis and Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, one of Shiite Islam's top clerics, was well received across Iranian media. The meeting became front-page news in Iran Sunday, with some media declaring it a chance for peace in the neighbouring country. The pontiff's historic visit to Iraq that began on Friday. Tehran, with its allies within Baghdad's state-sponsored Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force, helped Iraqi troops defeat the Sunni jihadist Islamic State (IS) group at the end of 2017. Iran's reformist Sazandegi daily said the two religious leaders are now "the standard-bearers of world peace" and called their meetings "the most effective event (in the history of) dialogue between religions". Another reformist daily, Shargh, said it was "a symbolic spectacle showing the importance of cooperation between followers of different religions". "Victory for Shiism and Christianity," wrote the government-run Iran daily in a front-page column, saying that the pope's visit showed that "Christianity is alive in Iraq" despite the "suffering" caused by the IS. Also read | Pope Francis prays for 'victims of war' in Mosul, a former Islamic State stronghold in Iraq Iran's conservative dailies noted that the return of security to Iraq was the result of efforts by "resistance" forces, recalling Sistani's call in 2014 for Iraqis to take up arms against the jihadists. "Pope Francis and many western countries must be aware that this freedom (to travel to Iraq) owes much to the blood of the courageous youth of the resistance axis and the wisdom of the Shiite authority," said the ultraconservative Resalat. It added that the meeting could be "a valuable opportunity for peace and to alleviate the suffering of the Iraqi people, especially the Christians affected by the Islamic State's invasion". Another ultraconservative publication, Kayhan, said that "the security of Iraqi Christians" and Muslims was made possible through the "sacrifice" of "young Iraqis" commanded by Iran's General Qasem Soleimani and Hashed deputy Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who were killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad in January 2020. (with inputs from AFP)

Iranian media hails Pope-Sistani meeting as chance for peace

Iran&nbsp;will&nbsp;soon&nbsp;present a&nbsp;"constructive" plan&nbsp;of&nbsp;action,&nbsp;Foreign&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Mohammad&nbsp;Javad&nbsp;Zarif&nbsp;said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday, after European sources&nbsp;said&nbsp;Tehran gave positive signs about opening informal talks about its nuclear programme.

"As&nbsp;Iran's FM (foreign&nbsp;minister) &amp; chief nuclear negotiator, I will shortly&nbsp;present&nbsp;our constructive concrete&nbsp;plan&nbsp;of&nbsp;action&nbsp;- through proper diplomatic channels,"&nbsp;Zarif&nbsp;said&nbsp;on Twitter.

A French diplomatic source and another European source&nbsp;said&nbsp;on Thursday that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;had given encouraging signs in recent days about opening the informal talks after European powers scrapped&nbsp;plans to criticise Tehran at the UN&nbsp;nuclear watchdog.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/looking-forward-with-strong-interest-for-irans-willingness-to-engage-us-on-nuclear-issue-368093" hreflang="en">Looking forward with strong interest for Iran's willingness to engage: US on nuclear issue</a>

Iran&nbsp;has so far refused to take part in a meeting brokered by the European Union between world powers and the United States on reviving its 2015 nuclear deal.

Iran's nuclear policy is decided by the country's top authority, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and not the president or the government.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/irans-zarif-says-ending-iaea-snap-inspections-doesnt-breach-2015-nuclear-deal-365188" hreflang="en">Iran's Zarif says ending IAEA snap inspections doesn't breach 2015 nuclear deal</a>

Tehran and Washington have emerged from former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's attempts to wreck&nbsp;Iran's nuclear deal locked in a standoff over who should move first to save it. Trump pulled out of the deal in 2018.

Britain, France and Germany decided to pause the submission of a resolution critical of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;at the International Atomic Energy Agency on Thursday to not harm the prospects for diplomacy after what they&nbsp;said&nbsp;were concessions gained from&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to deal with outstanding nuclear.

Iran will soon present a "constructive" plan of action, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday, after European sources said Tehran gave positive signs about opening informal talks about its nuclear programme.

Iran will soon present a "constructive" plan of action, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday, after European sources said Tehran gave positive signs about opening informal talks about its nuclear programme. "As Iran's FM (foreign minister) & chief nuclear negotiator, I will shortly present our constructive concrete plan of action - through proper diplomatic channels," Zarif said on Twitter. A French diplomatic source and another European source said on Thursday that Iran had given encouraging signs in recent days about opening the informal talks after European powers scrapped plans to criticise Tehran at the UN nuclear watchdog. Also read: Looking forward with strong interest for Iran's willingness to engage: US on nuclear issue Iran has so far refused to take part in a meeting brokered by the European Union between world powers and the United States on reviving its 2015 nuclear deal. Iran's nuclear policy is decided by the country's top authority, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and not the president or the government. Also read: Iran's Zarif says ending IAEA snap inspections doesn't breach 2015 nuclear deal Tehran and Washington have emerged from former US President Donald Trump's attempts to wreck Iran's nuclear deal locked in a standoff over who should move first to save it. Trump pulled out of the deal in 2018. Britain, France and Germany decided to pause the submission of a resolution critical of Iran at the International Atomic Energy Agency on Thursday to not harm the prospects for diplomacy after what they said were concessions gained from Iran to deal with outstanding nuclear.

Iran's Zarif to offer 'constructive' plan amid hopes of informal nuclear talks

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.&nbsp;

The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition.&nbsp;

The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said.&nbsp;

They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city.&nbsp;

The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added.&nbsp;

The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert.&nbsp;

It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks.&nbsp;

Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference.&nbsp;

"Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said.&nbsp;

The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday.

Fierce fighting between Yemeni pro-government forces and Iran-backed Huthi rebels has killed at least 90 combatants on both sides in the past 24 hours, government military sources said on Saturday. The Shiite rebels launched an offensive last month to seize Marib, the last stronghold in northern Yemen of pro-government forces, who are backed by a Saudi-led military coalition. The clashes in the oil-rich province left 32 dead among government forces and loyalist tribes, while 58 Huthi rebels were killed in coalition air strikes, the sources said. They said heavy clashes broke out on six fronts as government forces were able to counter attacks by the Huthis, who managed to advance only on the Kassara front northwest of Marib city. The fighting also left dozens of people wounded, the sources added. The loss of Marib would be a huge blow for the Yemeni government, but would also threaten catastrophe for civilians, including hundreds of thousands of displaced people sheltering in desolate camps in the surrounding desert. It would also be a major setback for Saudi Arabia, which has been the target of increasingly frequent Huthi missile attacks in recent weeks. Shrapnel from Huthi drones intercepted by the Saudis on Friday wounded two civilians, including a 10-year-old, in the southwest of the kingdom, the official SPA news agency reported. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday urged the Huthis to halt their offensive in Marib, as he announced $191 million in aid at a donors' conference. "Aid alone will not end the conflict. We can only end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by ending the war... so the United States is reinvigorating our diplomatic efforts to end the war," he said. The United Nations had sought to raise $3.85 billion from more than 100 governments and donors, but only $1.7 billion was offered. (With inputs from agencies)

Fighting in Yemen's Marib kills 90 in 24 hours: Sources 

The building hope of nuclear deals revival, Iran has given encouraging signs about opening informal talks with world powers and United States.

Iran signals informal nuclear talks with IAEA's Technical, US supports meet

Iran has given encouraging signs about opening informal talks with world powers and the United States after European powers scrapped plans to criticise Tehran at the UN nuclear watchdog.

Iran gives positive signals on informal nuclear talks

Iranian female Olympic medal winner Kimia Alizadeh has been granted refugee status in Germany and aims to compete in the Olympic Refugee Team under a white flag in Tokyo this summer.

Iran's former only female Olympic medallist plans to start under white flag in Tokyo

Last week an Israeli cargo ship suffered a mysterious explosion in the Gulf of Oman. The explosion ripped through the holes on either side of ship's hull. Israel's PM Benjamin Netanyahu said that Iran is behind the attack but Iran has denied any role in mysterious blast.

Iran: Country 'strongly rejects' Israeli accusation of mysterious blast

Iran has ruled out holding an informal meeting with the US and European powers on ways to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. Iran cites inappropriate time for talks as the reason.

Iran rejects nuclear deal talks says time not suitable

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