Iran has given green-light to India for evacuating its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country. Close to 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran following the closure of the international airport in Tehran.&nbsp;

There are also reports that 500 Indian fishermen are being held in the port city of Bander Abbas. India will now have to dispatch an aircraft to Tehran and bring back its nationals.

Iran has promised to screen and examine Indian nationals at the Tehran airport before their evacuation. But in return, Iran wants India to provide the same service to Iranian nationals who are planning to return home from India.&nbsp;

This evacuation proposal comes at a time when Iran is being widely accused of downplaying the outbreak.

Just yesterday, BBC's Persian wing reported that the actual death toll in Iran could be as high as 210. This is almost six times higher than what Iran's govt is reporting.

 
Overnight, the country reported 9 more fatalities and a 50 per cent jump in infections. Overall, there have been 43 deaths and 593 confirmed cases in the country.

Iran has given green-light to India for evacuating its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country. Close to 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran following the closure of the international airport in Tehran.

Iran has given green-light to India for evacuating its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country. Close to 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran following the closure of the international airport in Tehran. There are also reports that 500 Indian fishermen are being held in the port city of Bander Abbas. India will now have to dispatch an aircraft to Tehran and bring back its nationals. Iran has promised to screen and examine Indian nationals at the Tehran airport before their evacuation. But in return, Iran wants India to provide the same service to Iranian nationals who are planning to return home from India. This evacuation proposal comes at a time when Iran is being widely accused of downplaying the outbreak. Just yesterday, BBC's Persian wing reported that the actual death toll in Iran could be as high as 210. This is almost six times higher than what Iran's govt is reporting. Overnight, the country reported 9 more fatalities and a 50 per cent jump in infections. Overall, there have been 43 deaths and 593 confirmed cases in the country.

India can evacuate its citizens from the coronavirus-hit country: Iran 

Leaders in Europe, the Middle East and the Americas rolled out bans on big gatherings and stricter travel restrictions as cases of the new coronavirus spread around the world.

In the United State, the authorities will start screening travellers for coronavirus and ramp up production of masks and test kits as the government scrambles to reassure Americans.

Although most Americans face a low risk from the virus, more US deaths could be imminent following the nation's first, CNN quoted Vice President Mike Pence as saying.

"We know there will be more cases," Pence told CNN's Jake Tapper in a clip released on Saturday, echoing President Donald Trump's earlier comments that additional cases in America were "likely."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-us-others-nations-tighten-curbs-on-travel-to-china-as-virus-toll-hits-213-277797">Coronavirus outbreak: US, other nations tighten curbs on travel to China as virus toll hits 213</a>

Pence said an entry ban on travellers from Iran would be expanded to include any foreign nationals who have visited Iran in the last 14 days.

The United States may also restrict travel on its southern border with Mexico, officials said. However, they encouraged Americans to travel around the country, including states that have recorded some of its more than 60 cases.

The outbreak is disrupting flight demand and many airlines have suspended or modified services in response. After Saturday's press conference, the White House held a call with airlines to discuss new travel restrictions.

The virus has spread to more than 60 countries around the globe, prompting the World Health Organization to raise its risk assessment to its highest level.

Worldwide, nearly 3,000 people have been killed and about 87,000 infected since the virus was first detected late last year in the central Chinese city of Wuhan.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-wages-all-out-responses-to-virus-with-586-new-cases-283567">South Korea wages 'all-out responses' to virus with 586 new cases</a>

While the numbers in China are still far lower than the huge daily increases reported during the first two weeks of February, COVID-19 has spread rapidly across borders, with South Korea, Italy and Iran emerging as hotspots.

South Korea, which has the most infected people outside China, reported 586 new cases on Sunday, bringing its total to 3,736.

There are fears the disease could hammer the global economy, and stock markets last week plunged to their lowest levels since the 2008 financial crisis.

New cases

The number of people infected with the novel coronavirus in Germany jumped sharply to 129 on Sunday, official data showed, as the interior minister said he expected a vaccine by the end of the year.

The Czech Republic has recorded its first three cases of the new coronavirus: two men and a woman recently arrived from northern Italy, Health Minister Adam Vojtech said Sunday.

Ecuador on Saturday reported its first case, in a woman who had traveled from Madrid, while Mexico reported four cases, all in people who had visited Italy.

Brazilian officials confirmed that country's second case, a patient in São Paulo who recently visited Italy.

As governments worldwide stepped up efforts to halt the spread of the virus, France announced a temporary ban on public gatherings with more than 5,000 people in confined spaces. It reported 16 new cases for a total of 73, and canceled a half-marathon of 40,000 runners scheduled for Sunday.

Switzerland said it is banning events expected to draw more than 1,000 people.

More than 700 tourists remain quarantined at a hotel in the Canary Islands, after several Italian guests there tested positive for coronavirus.

Schools and universities in Italy, which is experiencing Europe's worst outbreak of the disease, will stay closed for a second consecutive week in three northern regions. The country has reported more than 1,100 cases and 29 deaths.

Analysts have warned that the outbreak looks set to shunt Italy's fragile economy into its fourth recession in 12 years, with many businesses in the wealthy north close to a standstill and hotels reporting a wave of cancellations.

Focus on Iran

The novel coronavirus claimed another 11 lives in Iran, bringing the country's overall toll to 54, according to official figures released on Sunday that showed the virus was spreading more rapidly.&nbsp;

It was the highest number of new cases for the third successive day in the Islamic republic, which now has 978 confirmed infections.

The majority of infections in other Gulf countries have been linked to visits to Iran or involve people who have come into contact with people who had been there.

Armenia reported its first infection on Sunday, in a citizen returning from neighbouring Iran.

Tehran has ordered schools shut until Tuesday and extended the closure of universities and a ban on concerts and sports events for a week. Authorities have also banned visits to hospitals and nursing homes as the country's case load hit nearly 600.

One Iranian lawmaker, elected in Feb. 21 polls, has died from the disease along with more than 40 other Iranians, and several high-ranking officials have tested positive for the virus.

Azerbaijan said on Saturday it had closed its border with Iran for two weeks to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Two Azerbaijanis who traveled to Iran have tested positive for the disease and quarantined.

Mainland China reported 573 new confirmed coronavirus cases on Feb. 29, up from 427 the previous day, national health officials said on Sunday in China. The number of deaths stood at 35, down from 47 the previous day, taking the toll in mainland China to 2,870.

The epidemic, which began in China, has killed almost 3,000 people worldwide, the ministry said.

Thailand reported its first death from the virus on Sunday, while in Australia, a former passenger on the Diamond Princess cruise ship quarantined off Japan died in the western city of Perth.

Churches closed in South Korea as many held online services instead, with authorities looking to rein in public gatherings, as 376 new infections took the tally to 3,526 cases.

Leaders in Europe, the Middle East and the Americas rolled out bans on big gatherings and stricter travel restrictions as cases of the new coronavirus spread around the world.

Leaders in Europe, the Middle East and the Americas rolled out bans on big gatherings and stricter travel restrictions as cases of the new coronavirus spread around the world. In the United State, the authorities will start screening travellers for coronavirus and ramp up production of masks and test kits as the government scrambles to reassure Americans. Although most Americans face a low risk from the virus, more US deaths could be imminent following the nation's first, CNN quoted Vice President Mike Pence as saying. "We know there will be more cases," Pence told CNN's Jake Tapper in a clip released on Saturday, echoing President Donald Trump's earlier comments that additional cases in America were "likely." Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak: US, other nations tighten curbs on travel to China as virus toll hits 213 Pence said an entry ban on travellers from Iran would be expanded to include any foreign nationals who have visited Iran in the last 14 days. The United States may also restrict travel on its southern border with Mexico, officials said. However, they encouraged Americans to travel around the country, including states that have recorded some of its more than 60 cases. The outbreak is disrupting flight demand and many airlines have suspended or modified services in response. After Saturday's press conference, the White House held a call with airlines to discuss new travel restrictions. The virus has spread to more than 60 countries around the globe, prompting the World Health Organization to raise its risk assessment to its highest level. Worldwide, nearly 3,000 people have been killed and about 87,000 infected since the virus was first detected late last year in the central Chinese city of Wuhan. Also read: South Korea wages 'all-out responses' to virus with 586 new cases While the numbers in China are still far lower than the huge daily increases reported during the first two weeks of February, COVID-19 has spread rapidly across borders, with South Korea, Italy and Iran emerging as hotspots. South Korea, which has the most infected people outside China, reported 586 new cases on Sunday, bringing its total to 3,736. There are fears the disease could hammer the global economy, and stock markets last week plunged to their lowest levels since the 2008 financial crisis. New cases The number of people infected with the novel coronavirus in Germany jumped sharply to 129 on Sunday, official data showed, as the interior minister said he expected a vaccine by the end of the year. The Czech Republic has recorded its first three cases of the new coronavirus: two men and a woman recently arrived from northern Italy, Health Minister Adam Vojtech said Sunday. Ecuador on Saturday reported its first case, in a woman who had traveled from Madrid, while Mexico reported four cases, all in people who had visited Italy. Brazilian officials confirmed that country's second case, a patient in São Paulo who recently visited Italy. As governments worldwide stepped up efforts to halt the spread of the virus, France announced a temporary ban on public gatherings with more than 5,000 people in confined spaces. It reported 16 new cases for a total of 73, and canceled a half-marathon of 40,000 runners scheduled for Sunday. Switzerland said it is banning events expected to draw more than 1,000 people. More than 700 tourists remain quarantined at a hotel in the Canary Islands, after several Italian guests there tested positive for coronavirus. Schools and universities in Italy, which is experiencing Europe's worst outbreak of the disease, will stay closed for a second consecutive week in three northern regions. The country has reported more than 1,100 cases and 29 deaths. Analysts have warned that the outbreak looks set to shunt Italy's fragile economy into its fourth recession in 12 years, with many businesses in the wealthy north close to a standstill and hotels reporting a wave of cancellations. Focus on Iran The novel coronavirus claimed another 11 lives in Iran, bringing the country's overall toll to 54, according to official figures released on Sunday that showed the virus was spreading more rapidly. It was the highest number of new cases for the third successive day in the Islamic republic, which now has 978 confirmed infections. The majority of infections in other Gulf countries have been linked to visits to Iran or involve people who have come into contact with people who had been there. Armenia reported its first infection on Sunday, in a citizen returning from neighbouring Iran. Tehran has ordered schools shut until Tuesday and extended the closure of universities and a ban on concerts and sports events for a week. Authorities have also banned visits to hospitals and nursing homes as the country's case load hit nearly 600. One Iranian lawmaker, elected in Feb. 21 polls, has died from the disease along with more than 40 other Iranians, and several high-ranking officials have tested positive for the virus. Azerbaijan said on Saturday it had closed its border with Iran for two weeks to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Two Azerbaijanis who traveled to Iran have tested positive for the disease and quarantined. Mainland China reported 573 new confirmed coronavirus cases on Feb. 29, up from 427 the previous day, national health officials said on Sunday in China. The number of deaths stood at 35, down from 47 the previous day, taking the toll in mainland China to 2,870. The epidemic, which began in China, has killed almost 3,000 people worldwide, the ministry said. Thailand reported its first death from the virus on Sunday, while in Australia, a former passenger on the Diamond Princess cruise ship quarantined off Japan died in the western city of Perth. Churches closed in South Korea as many held online services instead, with authorities looking to rein in public gatherings, as 376 new infections took the tally to 3,526 cases.

World braces for more coronavirus cases; death toll rises in South Korea, Iran, Italy

Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof`s `There Is No Evil` won the Golden Bear prize for the best picture at the 70th Berlin Film Festival.

The film festival drew a close on Saturday (local time) by honouring the director`s movie, who is currently banned from leaving Iran for participation in social and political activity, cited Deadline.

The 48-year-old director was not in attendance at the event.

Daughter Baran Rasoulof, who also stars in `There Is No Evil` accepted the Golden Bear on his behalf.

"Overwhelmed and happy, but sad for a filmmaker who couldn`t be here tonight. This is for him," cited Deadline as Baran saying while accepting the award.

The award-winning Iranian drama revolves around the theme of a powerful moral case against the country`s death penalty.

The other stars of the night were, Korean director Hong Sang-soo who won the best director trophy for his movie `The Woman Who Ran`, and Oscar nominee Rithy Panh won the documentary prize for `Irradiated`.

Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof`s `There Is No Evil` won the Golden Bear prize for the best picture at the 70th Berlin Film Festival. The film festival drew a close on Saturday (local time) by honouring the director`s movie, who is currently banned from leaving Iran for participation in social and political activity, cited Deadline.

Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof`s `There Is No Evil` won the Golden Bear prize for the best picture at the 70th Berlin Film Festival. The film festival drew a close on Saturday (local time) by honouring the director`s movie, who is currently banned from leaving Iran for participation in social and political activity, cited Deadline. The 48-year-old director was not in attendance at the event. Daughter Baran Rasoulof, who also stars in `There Is No Evil` accepted the Golden Bear on his behalf. "Overwhelmed and happy, but sad for a filmmaker who couldn`t be here tonight. This is for him," cited Deadline as Baran saying while accepting the award. The award-winning Iranian drama revolves around the theme of a powerful moral case against the country`s death penalty. The other stars of the night were, Korean director Hong Sang-soo who won the best director trophy for his movie `The Woman Who Ran`, and Oscar nominee Rithy Panh won the documentary prize for `Irradiated`.

Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof's 'There Is No Evil' wins at Berlin Film Festival

International experts are questioning the scale of the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-dismisses-rumours-as-virus-deaths-jump-to-43-283474">coronavirus epidemic in Iran</a>, where the official death toll is second only to China and risks creating a regional epicentre of contagion.

While Iran has acknowledged 43 deaths among 593 confirmed infections nationwide -- with a vice-president and deputy health minister among those testing positive -- unofficial tolls are much higher.

The London-based BBC Persian service says 210 people have been<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-faces-global-criticism-over-its-handling-of-coronavirus-outbreak-283422"> killed by the virus</a>; a figure it says it collated from hospital sources.

The report was immediately dismissed by Iran's health ministry. &nbsp;

The People's Mujahedin, an exiled organisation that Tehran considers a terrorist group, claims that the epidemic has killed "more than 300" while infecting up to 15,000 across the country.

Six epidemiologists based in Canada used a mathematical model to estimate that there have been more than 18,000 cases on Iranian soil.

Their calculations -- not yet peer-reviewed -- take into account the number of cases in other countries that originated from Iran.

"When a country exports cases to other destinations it's very likely that the burden of infection in this country is significant", according to Isaac Bogoch, coauthor of the study and a specialist in infectious diseases at the University of Toronto.

Also read:-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/morning-news-brief-first-european-casualty-from-coronavirus-iran-polls-and-more-282116">Morning News Brief: First European casualty from coronavirus, Iran polls, and more</a>

'Position of weakness'

This week, Reporters Without Borders added its own criticism of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mike-pompeo-warns-iran-not-to-be-spoiler-in-afghanistan-283390">Tehran's handling of the outbreak</a>, accusing the government of stifling news on the spread of the virus.

"The authorities insist they have the situation under control but they have... obstructed journalists trying to cover the story," the media advocacy group said in a statement.

On Saturday, Iran's health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour responded to the criticisms, accusing foreign media of spreading false news.

"Among Iran's radicals, there is an obsession with not giving ammunition to the enemy and avoiding appearing weak," said Thierry Coville, an Iran analyst at the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs.

Iranian Twitter user Assieh Bakeri speculated: "Talking about coronavirus could soon be considered troubling for public opinion, undermining public security and insulting the president!"

Economic crisis weighs&nbsp;

More than seven per cent of people in Iran confirmed to be infected with the virus have died, according to Iran's official data, a far higher mortality rate than in other countries.

In China, 3.5 per cent of infected people have reportedly died. In Italy, another country hit hard by the virus, the death rate is reported at two per cent.

"In Iran, for example, they started detecting patients based on death. So if you calculate the case/fatality rate that way, it is going to be very high," said Cecile Viboud, an epidemiologist at the National Institutes of Health in the United States.

Whatever the reliability of official figures, Iran is certainly one of the main centres of contamination outside China.

The situation is aggravated by an economic crisis, as the country grapples with the effect of Washington re-imposing sanctions in 2018 -- a move that hit oil exports and provoked a recession.

"Why did Iran not stop flights to China? There is a rational explanation -- China is one of the last countries buying their oil. They need to maintain the economic link," Coville said.

"With the sanctions, we can say that the government has lost at least 30 per cent of its budget revenues. This has inevitably had an impact on their health system," he added.

Situated at a geographical crossroads in the Middle East and surrounded by countries with creaking infrastructure and challenging humanitarian conditions, Iran's situation gives cause for worry.

"This is concerning, both for public health in Iran itself, and because of the high likelihood for outward dissemination of the epidemic to neighbouring countries with lower capacity to respond to infectious diseases epidemics", the Canadian study concluded.

Azerbaijan, Iraq, Canada, Georgia, Lebanon, New Zealand and Qatar have now confirmed coronavirus infections among people arriving from Iran.

Iranian authorities have taken measures to counter the virus' spread, including cancelling Friday prayers in several cities, closing schools until at least Tuesday, shutting parliament until "further notice" and restricting travel within the country.

International experts are questioning the scale of the new coronavirus epidemic in Iran, where the official death toll is second only to China and risks creating a regional epicentre of contagion.

International experts are questioning the scale of the new coronavirus epidemic in Iran, where the official death toll is second only to China and risks creating a regional epicentre of contagion. While Iran has acknowledged 43 deaths among 593 confirmed infections nationwide -- with a vice-president and deputy health minister among those testing positive -- unofficial tolls are much higher. The London-based BBC Persian service says 210 people have been killed by the virus; a figure it says it collated from hospital sources. The report was immediately dismissed by Iran's health ministry. The People's Mujahedin, an exiled organisation that Tehran considers a terrorist group, claims that the epidemic has killed "more than 300" while infecting up to 15,000 across the country. Six epidemiologists based in Canada used a mathematical model to estimate that there have been more than 18,000 cases on Iranian soil. Their calculations -- not yet peer-reviewed -- take into account the number of cases in other countries that originated from Iran. "When a country exports cases to other destinations it's very likely that the burden of infection in this country is significant", according to Isaac Bogoch, coauthor of the study and a specialist in infectious diseases at the University of Toronto. Also read:-Morning News Brief: First European casualty from coronavirus, Iran polls, and more 'Position of weakness' This week, Reporters Without Borders added its own criticism of Tehran's handling of the outbreak, accusing the government of stifling news on the spread of the virus. "The authorities insist they have the situation under control but they have... obstructed journalists trying to cover the story," the media advocacy group said in a statement. On Saturday, Iran's health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour responded to the criticisms, accusing foreign media of spreading false news. "Among Iran's radicals, there is an obsession with not giving ammunition to the enemy and avoiding appearing weak," said Thierry Coville, an Iran analyst at the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs. Iranian Twitter user Assieh Bakeri speculated: "Talking about coronavirus could soon be considered troubling for public opinion, undermining public security and insulting the president!" Economic crisis weighs More than seven per cent of people in Iran confirmed to be infected with the virus have died, according to Iran's official data, a far higher mortality rate than in other countries. In China, 3.5 per cent of infected people have reportedly died. In Italy, another country hit hard by the virus, the death rate is reported at two per cent. "In Iran, for example, they started detecting patients based on death. So if you calculate the case/fatality rate that way, it is going to be very high," said Cecile Viboud, an epidemiologist at the National Institutes of Health in the United States. Whatever the reliability of official figures, Iran is certainly one of the main centres of contamination outside China. The situation is aggravated by an economic crisis, as the country grapples with the effect of Washington re-imposing sanctions in 2018 -- a move that hit oil exports and provoked a recession. "Why did Iran not stop flights to China? There is a rational explanation -- China is one of the last countries buying their oil. They need to maintain the economic link," Coville said. "With the sanctions, we can say that the government has lost at least 30 per cent of its budget revenues. This has inevitably had an impact on their health system," he added. Situated at a geographical crossroads in the Middle East and surrounded by countries with creaking infrastructure and challenging humanitarian conditions, Iran's situation gives cause for worry. "This is concerning, both for public health in Iran itself, and because of the high likelihood for outward dissemination of the epidemic to neighbouring countries with lower capacity to respond to infectious diseases epidemics", the Canadian study concluded. Azerbaijan, Iraq, Canada, Georgia, Lebanon, New Zealand and Qatar have now confirmed coronavirus infections among people arriving from Iran. Iranian authorities have taken measures to counter the virus' spread, including cancelling Friday prayers in several cities, closing schools until at least Tuesday, shutting parliament until "further notice" and restricting travel within the country.

What is the real size of the coronavirus epidemic in Iran?

Coronavirus continues to claim lives and spread the infection across the borders. The United States has now got the first fatality due to coronavirus. The 50-year-old man had health conditions which aggravated condition, the man had no contact with anyone who had travelled to the virus hit nations.

Coronavirus kills 50-year-old man in Washington

Coronavirus continues to claim lives and spread the infection across the borders. Watch WION's report to know what life looks like in China now.

Coronavirus Outbreak: What life looks like in China

The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, on February 28 defended the action of the assassination of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in his testimony. He said Qassem Soleimani posed an imminent threat to American lives.

Mike Pompeo defends Qassem Soleimani's assassination

Iran continues to face global criticism over its handling of the coronavirus outbreak. A report published by BBC's Persian wing claims that the actual death toll in the country could be as high as 210. This is six times higher than what the government in Iran reported.

Report claims coronavirus death toll in Iran to be 210

Iran continues to face global criticism over its handling of the coronavirus outbreak.

A fresh report from the BBC's Persian wing claims that the actual death toll in the country could be as high as 210. This is six times higher than what the government in Iran reported. &nbsp;The report claims that an official in Iran's health ministry leaked the official death toll.

It says that most of the deaths are from the capital of Tehran, and the holy city of Qom. But the government has outrightly rejected this new report.

The official death toll in the country stands at 34 with eight new cases being reported overnight. A spokesperson from Iran's health ministry accused BBC of spreading lies and said that Iran's transparency in publishing information regarding the virus had stunned many people.

This is not the first time Iran has been accused of downplaying the severity of the outbreak. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Iran's infrastructure was not robust enough to handle the outbreak and offered assistance to the Iranian government. However, Iran completely rejected the offer. A legislator from Qom had also accused authorities of downplaying the outbreak and censoring the actual death toll. But the deputy health minister categorically denied the allegation.

Iran continues to face global criticism over its handling of the coronavirus outbreak. A fresh report from the BBC's Persian wing claims that the actual death toll in the country could be as high as 210.

Iran continues to face global criticism over its handling of the coronavirus outbreak. A fresh report from the BBC's Persian wing claims that the actual death toll in the country could be as high as 210. This is six times higher than what the government in Iran reported. The report claims that an official in Iran's health ministry leaked the official death toll. It says that most of the deaths are from the capital of Tehran, and the holy city of Qom. But the government has outrightly rejected this new report. The official death toll in the country stands at 34 with eight new cases being reported overnight. A spokesperson from Iran's health ministry accused BBC of spreading lies and said that Iran's transparency in publishing information regarding the virus had stunned many people. This is not the first time Iran has been accused of downplaying the severity of the outbreak. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Iran's infrastructure was not robust enough to handle the outbreak and offered assistance to the Iranian government. However, Iran completely rejected the offer. A legislator from Qom had also accused authorities of downplaying the outbreak and censoring the actual death toll. But the deputy health minister categorically denied the allegation.

Iran faces global criticism over its handling of coronavirus outbreak

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday warned Iran not to scuttle an upcoming agreement with the Taliban, accusing the US adversary of seeking to be a "spoiler."

Pompeo confirmed that a one-week partial truce was holding with the Taliban, who are scheduled to sign the landmark accord with the United States in Qatar on Saturday.

"There is a history of Iran engaging in activity inside of Afghanistan to act as a spoiler," Pompeo told the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

"We've seen just these last six days a significant reduction in violence in Afghanistan and we are watching closely to see if the Islamic Republic of Iran begins to take even more active measure that undermine our efforts at peace and reconciliation," he said.

He warned that Iran could increase risks for US troops, whose numbers are expected to be sharply scaled down under the Doha agreement.

Iran's Shiite clerical regime has been historically opposed to the Taliban, which practices an austere brand of Sunni Islam, and quietly backed the 2001 US-led invasion that toppled the Taliban regime.

Iran was part of a coalition that backed the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance and in 1998 amassed troops near the Afghan border after a Taliban assault on Iran's consulate in Herat.

But Iran has increasingly been involved in proxy conflicts with the United States elsewhere, notably in Iraq.

Iran has been mostly cautious in its recent comments on Afghanistan.

But Foreign Minister Javad Zarif last year criticized the US talks with the Taliban, saying they only boosted the extremists and alienated the internationally-backed government.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday warned Iran not to scuttle an upcoming agreement with the Taliban, accusing the US adversary of seeking to be a "spoiler.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday warned Iran not to scuttle an upcoming agreement with the Taliban, accusing the US adversary of seeking to be a "spoiler." Pompeo confirmed that a one-week partial truce was holding with the Taliban, who are scheduled to sign the landmark accord with the United States in Qatar on Saturday. "There is a history of Iran engaging in activity inside of Afghanistan to act as a spoiler," Pompeo told the House Foreign Affairs Committee. "We've seen just these last six days a significant reduction in violence in Afghanistan and we are watching closely to see if the Islamic Republic of Iran begins to take even more active measure that undermine our efforts at peace and reconciliation," he said. He warned that Iran could increase risks for US troops, whose numbers are expected to be sharply scaled down under the Doha agreement. Iran's Shiite clerical regime has been historically opposed to the Taliban, which practices an austere brand of Sunni Islam, and quietly backed the 2001 US-led invasion that toppled the Taliban regime. Iran was part of a coalition that backed the anti-Taliban Northern Alliance and in 1998 amassed troops near the Afghan border after a Taliban assault on Iran's consulate in Herat. But Iran has increasingly been involved in proxy conflicts with the United States elsewhere, notably in Iraq. Iran has been mostly cautious in its recent comments on Afghanistan. But Foreign Minister Javad Zarif last year criticized the US talks with the Taliban, saying they only boosted the extremists and alienated the internationally-backed government.

Mike Pompeo warns Iran not to be 'spoiler' in Afghanistan

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief.

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In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-cleric-dies-as-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-to-26-in-iran-283194">READ MORE</a>

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The monthly which once employed legends like Jean-Luc Godard and Francois Truffaut before they went on to change cinema history, was sold earlier this month to a group of film producers and tech tycoons.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/staff-of-cult-french-film-magazine-cahiers-du-cinema-quit-en-masse-283216">READ MORE</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-steven-spielberg-will-not-direct-the-fifth-instalment-of-indiana-jones-reports-283173">Steven Spielberg will not direct the fifth instalment of 'Indiana Jones': Reports</a>

<img alt=" Steven Spielberg" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7af717b5-6edc-45a5-8b45-19a65a3d9589" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/steven.jpg" />

In the franchise's 39-year-old history, this would be the first time that Spielberg will not be directing the film. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood-news-steven-spielberg-will-not-direct-the-fifth-instalment-of-indiana-jones-reports-283173">READ MORE</a>

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. 33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib The heavy losses in northwestern Idlib come after weeks of growing tensions between rebel supporter Ankara and Damascus ally Moscow.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. 33 Turkish soldiers killed in airstrike by Syrian regime forces in Idlib The heavy losses in northwestern Idlib come after weeks of growing tensions between rebel supporter Ankara and Damascus ally Moscow.READ MORE Prominent cleric dies as coronavirus death toll rises to 26 in Iran In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus. READ MORE Opinion: US-Taliban peace deal — What to expect? The agreement could mark the start of a new era for Afghanistan, but there are questions about the Taliban's intentions.READ MORE Staff of cult French film magazine 'Cahiers du cinema' quit en masse The monthly which once employed legends like Jean-Luc Godard and Francois Truffaut before they went on to change cinema history, was sold earlier this month to a group of film producers and tech tycoons.READ MORE Steven Spielberg will not direct the fifth instalment of 'Indiana Jones': Reports In the franchise's 39-year-old history, this would be the first time that Spielberg will not be directing the film. READ MORE

Morning News Brief: 33 killed in Syria, coronavirus in Iran and more

Pakistan has suspended all flights to Iran and closed land borders with its neighbour, officials confirmed on Friday, after Islamabad detected its first two coronavirus cases, both people who had recently travelled to the Islamic Republic.

Flights to and from China, the epicentre of the deadly outbreak, and Afghanistan, which also detected its first case this week, were still operating, however, and their land borders with Pakistan were also open.

"Aviation Divison has decided to cease all direct flights between Pakistan and Iran," civil aviation authority spokesman Abdul Sattar Khokhar said.

No Pakistani airlines were operating between the two countries, meaning the move hits three Iranian carriers Iran Air, Mahan Air and Taban Air.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-struggles-to-screen-hundreds-of-people-arriving-from-iran-for-virus-283133"> Pakistan struggles to screen hundreds of people arriving from Iran for virus</a>

The virus has now killed 2,856 people and infected more than 83,000 worldwide, with an increasing number of new cases being reported each day.

New infections have slowed in China, which has nearly 2,800 deaths out of nearly 79,000 cases.

However, Iran has emerged as a new hotspot for the virus, with at least 26 deaths and more than 245 infections so far.

There are growing fears in Pakistan sandwiched between China and Iran over how the country would deal with the outbreak.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fear-and-panic-as-virus-threatens-afghanistan-pakistan-282928"> 'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan</a>

Its porous borders, creaking hospitals, culture of handshaking and hugging, and large illiterate populations in crowded urban centres mean containing the crisis could be a huge challenge.

Pakistan's two cases were detected in the capital Islamabad, and in the teeming port megacity of Karachi, in southern Sindh province.

In Islamabad doctors at the city's largest public hospital told AFP they had not been provided with masks or other protective gear to treat suspected patients.

While in Karachi, officials said they were scrambling to screen at least 1,500 people who had recently returned from Iran.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-confirms-two-coronavirus-cases-no-need-to-panic-says-pak-pm-advisor-282950">Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor</a>

The cost of surgical masks was shooting up in the city's markets, and with schools closed and some people staying inside its notorious traffic had eased.

Authorities this week also moved quickly to quarantine at least 270 people in southwestern Balochistan province, near the Iranian border, after a group of pilgrims returned and briefly mixed with other residents.

"We have set-up an 80-tent quarantine facility at Taftan border, we will bring back Pakistanis in Iran in batches," said Najeebullah Qambrani, a local official in the town which is one of the main crossings to Iran.

On Friday schools also remained closed in Sindh and Balochistan provinces.&nbsp;

Pakistan has suspended all flights to Iran and closed land borders with its neighbour, officials confirmed on Friday, after Islamabad detected its first two coronavirus cases, both people who had recently travelled to the Islamic Republic.

Pakistan has suspended all flights to Iran and closed land borders with its neighbour, officials confirmed on Friday, after Islamabad detected its first two coronavirus cases, both people who had recently travelled to the Islamic Republic. Flights to and from China, the epicentre of the deadly outbreak, and Afghanistan, which also detected its first case this week, were still operating, however, and their land borders with Pakistan were also open. "Aviation Divison has decided to cease all direct flights between Pakistan and Iran," civil aviation authority spokesman Abdul Sattar Khokhar said. No Pakistani airlines were operating between the two countries, meaning the move hits three Iranian carriers Iran Air, Mahan Air and Taban Air. Also read: Pakistan struggles to screen hundreds of people arriving from Iran for virus The virus has now killed 2,856 people and infected more than 83,000 worldwide, with an increasing number of new cases being reported each day. New infections have slowed in China, which has nearly 2,800 deaths out of nearly 79,000 cases. However, Iran has emerged as a new hotspot for the virus, with at least 26 deaths and more than 245 infections so far. There are growing fears in Pakistan sandwiched between China and Iran over how the country would deal with the outbreak. Also see: 'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan Its porous borders, creaking hospitals, culture of handshaking and hugging, and large illiterate populations in crowded urban centres mean containing the crisis could be a huge challenge. Pakistan's two cases were detected in the capital Islamabad, and in the teeming port megacity of Karachi, in southern Sindh province. In Islamabad doctors at the city's largest public hospital told AFP they had not been provided with masks or other protective gear to treat suspected patients. While in Karachi, officials said they were scrambling to screen at least 1,500 people who had recently returned from Iran. Also read: Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor The cost of surgical masks was shooting up in the city's markets, and with schools closed and some people staying inside its notorious traffic had eased. Authorities this week also moved quickly to quarantine at least 270 people in southwestern Balochistan province, near the Iranian border, after a group of pilgrims returned and briefly mixed with other residents. "We have set-up an 80-tent quarantine facility at Taftan border, we will bring back Pakistanis in Iran in batches," said Najeebullah Qambrani, a local official in the town which is one of the main crossings to Iran. On Friday schools also remained closed in Sindh and Balochistan provinces.

Pakistan halts Iran flights over coronavirus fear

The 76 Indians and 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-affected Wuhan city of China this morning were being taken to an ITBP facility in the national capital for quarantine, officials said.

"The evacuees will go through a thermal screening procedure at the tarmac of the airport after which they will be kept at our facility in Chhawla area for quarantine," a spokesperson of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) said.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft brought 112 people that includes 76 Indians, 23 citizens from Bangladesh, six from China, two each from Myanmar and the Maldives and one each from South Africa, the US and Madagascar.

The military aircraft was sent to Wuhan on Wednesday and it carried 15 tonnes of medical supplies for coronavirus-affected people in China.

Earlier, India had evacuated around 650 Indians from Wuhan in two Air India flights who were kept at the ITBP facility and another quarantine facility set up by the Army in Manesar near Delhi.

All these people later tested negative for the virus and were allowed to go home after over a fortnight of quarantine.

The ITBP spokesperson said a team of doctors, paramedics and others will be present at the quarantine facility round-the-clock and the inmates will be provided facilities like food, bed and indoor entertainment to spend time.

The 76 Indians and 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-affected Wuhan city of China this morning were being taken to an ITBP facility in the national capital for quarantine, officials said.

The 76 Indians and 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-affected Wuhan city of China this morning were being taken to an ITBP facility in the national capital for quarantine, officials said. "The evacuees will go through a thermal screening procedure at the tarmac of the airport after which they will be kept at our facility in Chhawla area for quarantine," a spokesperson of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) said. An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft brought 112 people that includes 76 Indians, 23 citizens from Bangladesh, six from China, two each from Myanmar and the Maldives and one each from South Africa, the US and Madagascar. The military aircraft was sent to Wuhan on Wednesday and it carried 15 tonnes of medical supplies for coronavirus-affected people in China. Earlier, India had evacuated around 650 Indians from Wuhan in two Air India flights who were kept at the ITBP facility and another quarantine facility set up by the Army in Manesar near Delhi. All these people later tested negative for the virus and were allowed to go home after over a fortnight of quarantine. The ITBP spokesperson said a team of doctors, paramedics and others will be present at the quarantine facility round-the-clock and the inmates will be provided facilities like food, bed and indoor entertainment to spend time.

76 Indians, 36 foreigners evacuated from coronavirus-hit Wuhan taken to ITBP quarantine facility

The cases of the Wuhan coronavirus are growing around the world. A report from the Imperial College predicts that around two-thirds of cases exported from China are yet to be detected. On WION Edit - we assess if the world is staring at a global pandemic.

WION EDIT: Wuhan coronavirus, a global pandemic?

No major incident was reported from the northeast district of Delhi in the last 36 hours, the Home Ministry said on Thursday.

The ministry issued a statement around 10 PM after Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the situation in the violence-hit parts of the city in a meeting with seniors officials and the top police brass.

The ministry said there was no major incident in last 36 hours in any affected police station of Delhi's northeast district, while 514 suspects were either arrested or detained for questioning.

Further arrests would be made in the course of the investigation, the MHA said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-policeman-killed-in-clashes-during-caa-protests-in-delhi-282424">Also read: One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi</a>

Prohibitory orders imposed under section 144 of the CrPC will be relaxed for a total of 10 hours Friday in view of the improvement in the situation, it said.

Violent clashes erupted in the parts of the northeast area of Delhi last week after rival groups clashed over the Citizenship Amendment Act.

The clashes led to widespread vandalism and arson for over three days now while at least 38 people lost their lives. Over 200 were injured.

On investigation carried by Delhi police, the ministry said, "So far, 48 FIRs, pertaining to clashes, loss of lives/property, etc have already been registered and further FIRs would be registered in due course. Police has detained/arrested 514 suspects for questioning so far."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-special-investigation-teams-formed-to-invetigate-delhi-violence-as-death-toll-rises-to-38-283180">Two Special Investigation Team (SIT) have also been constituted</a> under the Delhi Police Crime Branch to investigate the violence in the northeast district. The teams, constituted under DCP Joy Tirkey and DCP Rajesh Deo, will immediately take over the investigation od the cases related to the Delhi riots.

Earlier in the day, the Delhi high court on Wednesday gave four weeks to the central government to file its response in the Delhi violence case.

The High Court also allowed impleadment of Centre as a party in the case seeking lodging of FIRs and arrests in northeast Delhi violence over Citizenship Amendment Act.

The division bench headed by Chief Justice DN Patel scheduled the matter for hearing on April 13.

Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party suspended its councillor, Tahir Hussain, until police complete the investigating into the allegations that he was behind the killing of Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer, who was found dead in a drain near his home in northeast Delhi's riot-hit Chand Bagh area.

Hussain has rejected the allegations.

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No major incident was reported from the northeast district of Delhi in the last 36 hours, the Home Ministry said on Thursday. The ministry issued a statement around 10 PM after Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the situation in the violence-hit parts of the city in a meeting with seniors officials and the top police brass.

No major incident was reported from the northeast district of Delhi in the last 36 hours, the Home Ministry said on Thursday. The ministry issued a statement around 10 PM after Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the situation in the violence-hit parts of the city in a meeting with seniors officials and the top police brass. The ministry said there was no major incident in last 36 hours in any affected police station of Delhi's northeast district, while 514 suspects were either arrested or detained for questioning. Further arrests would be made in the course of the investigation, the MHA said. Also read: One policeman killed in clashes during CAA protests in Delhi Prohibitory orders imposed under section 144 of the CrPC will be relaxed for a total of 10 hours Friday in view of the improvement in the situation, it said. Violent clashes erupted in the parts of the northeast area of Delhi last week after rival groups clashed over the Citizenship Amendment Act. The clashes led to widespread vandalism and arson for over three days now while at least 38 people lost their lives. Over 200 were injured. On investigation carried by Delhi police, the ministry said, "So far, 48 FIRs, pertaining to clashes, loss of lives/property, etc have already been registered and further FIRs would be registered in due course. Police has detained/arrested 514 suspects for questioning so far." Two Special Investigation Team (SIT) have also been constituted under the Delhi Police Crime Branch to investigate the violence in the northeast district. The teams, constituted under DCP Joy Tirkey and DCP Rajesh Deo, will immediately take over the investigation od the cases related to the Delhi riots. Earlier in the day, the Delhi high court on Wednesday gave four weeks to the central government to file its response in the Delhi violence case. The High Court also allowed impleadment of Centre as a party in the case seeking lodging of FIRs and arrests in northeast Delhi violence over Citizenship Amendment Act. The division bench headed by Chief Justice DN Patel scheduled the matter for hearing on April 13. Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party suspended its councillor, Tahir Hussain, until police complete the investigating into the allegations that he was behind the killing of Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer, who was found dead in a drain near his home in northeast Delhi's riot-hit Chand Bagh area. Hussain has rejected the allegations.

Section 144 to be relaxed for next 10 hours in riot-affected areas: Home Ministry

China, where 2,744 people have been killed from coronavirus witnessed its lowest single day death toll on Thursday in nearly a month. On Thursday, China's National Health Commission reported 29 deaths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-confirms-latin-americas-first-coronavirus-case-us-reports-57-cases-282954">Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases</a>

China has started lowering its emergency response level after the number of new cases have continued to come down in the last week.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-edit-wuhan-coronavirus-a-global-pandemic-282963/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, globally, the situation is still grave as number of infected cases other than mainland continue to rise.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-confirms-two-coronavirus-cases-no-need-to-panic-says-pak-pm-advisor-282950">Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor</a>

Another 334 positive cases were confirmed today in South Korea, taking the total infected tally to 1,595.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, a second death was reported in France while, Brazil, Georgia, Norway and North Macedonia reported their first coronavirus case.&nbsp;

France is on high alert after neighbouring Italy became a hotbed of the virus, where 12 people have been killed, infecting 400 others. &nbsp;

In the United States, 60 positive cases are found 15 detected through the public health system, and 45 repatriated from abroad.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

China, where 2,744 people have been killed from coronavirus witnessed its lowest single day death toll on Thursday in nearly a month. On Thursday, China's National Health Commission reported 29 deaths.

China, where 2,744 people have been killed from coronavirus witnessed its lowest single day death toll on Thursday in nearly a month. On Thursday, China's National Health Commission reported 29 deaths. Also read: Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases China has started lowering its emergency response level after the number of new cases have continued to come down in the last week. Watch: However, globally, the situation is still grave as number of infected cases other than mainland continue to rise. Also read: Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor Another 334 positive cases were confirmed today in South Korea, taking the total infected tally to 1,595. On Wednesday, a second death was reported in France while, Brazil, Georgia, Norway and North Macedonia reported their first coronavirus case. France is on high alert after neighbouring Italy became a hotbed of the virus, where 12 people have been killed, infecting 400 others. In the United States, 60 positive cases are found 15 detected through the public health system, and 45 repatriated from abroad.

Coronavirus: Severity shrinks in China as global tally continues to rise

Pakistani authorities were scrambling and struggling on Thursday to screen hundreds of people who had recently arrived from Iran, a major new hotspot for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-severity-shrinks-in-china-as-global-tally-continues-to-rise-282983">coronavirus</a> after Islamabad confirmed its first two infections.

Officials in the teeming port city of Karachi, where one of the two cases was detected, said they are also working to ensure a supply of face masks, as prices shot up with concern growing over&nbsp;Pakistan's ability to handle an outbreak.

At least one of the two cases announced Wednesday, a 22-year-old man in Karachi, appeared to have contracted the virus in Iran, authorities have said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-confirms-two-coronavirus-cases-no-need-to-panic-says-pak-pm-advisor-282950">Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor</a>

The government has now collected the data for 1,500 people in Sindh province who have arrived in&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;from Iran recently, Murad Ali Shah, the chief minister for the southern province, of which Karachi is the capital, told a press conference.

"They would be screened diligently until they are cleared," Shah said, adding authorities are contacting each to gauge their level of exposure and asking them all to remain at home for 15 days as a precaution.

It was unclear how many more people were being screened throughout the country. Federal health minister Zafar Mirza was set to hold a press conference later on Thursday.

Shah also said the provincial government was working with local surgical mask importers and manufacturers to ensure a supply for the province.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fear-and-panic-as-virus-threatens-afghanistan-pakistan-282928">'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan</a>

Doctors at Islamabad's largest public hospital where the second case was detected said they have not been given masks to treat patients.

"We have been requesting that they provide us masks and other protective equipment for four days, but no one cares," Dr Fazl-i-Rabbi, president of the Young Doctors Association at the hospital.

With porous borders, creaking hospitals and large illiterate populations,&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;faces a potentially devastating health crisis from the new coronavirus.

The virus has spread to more than 30 countries, killing over 2,700 and infecting 80,000, mostly in China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-severity-shrinks-in-china-as-global-tally-continues-to-rise-282983">Coronavirus: Severity shrinks in China as global tally continues to rise</a>

But new outbreaks in Europe, the Middle East and in Asia have fanned fears of the contagion taking hold in poor nations that lack the healthcare infrastructure to cope.

There are growing fears in&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;sandwiched between China and Iran, both hotspots for the disease over how the country would deal with the outbreak.&nbsp;

Islamabad has a history of failing to contain infectious diseases such as polio, tuberculosis and hepatitis.

"Our preparation is zero," said Dr Tipu Sultan, a medical practitioner and well-known activist for better healthcare in&nbsp;Pakistan.

He cited ignorance by both authorities and civilians over hygiene and how viruses can spread.

Schools were closed in Sindh and in neighbouring Balochistan province, bordering Iran, on Thursday.

The cost of surgical masks has&nbsp;already risen nearly tenfold in Karachi, from 180 rupees&nbsp;to 1,400 rupees&nbsp;per box of 50 masks.

Pakistani authorities were scrambling and struggling on Thursday to screen hundreds of people who had recently arrived from Iran, a major new hotspot for coronavirus after Islamabad confirmed its first two infections.

Pakistani authorities were scrambling and struggling on Thursday to screen hundreds of people who had recently arrived from Iran, a major new hotspot for coronavirus after Islamabad confirmed its first two infections. Officials in the teeming port city of Karachi, where one of the two cases was detected, said they are also working to ensure a supply of face masks, as prices shot up with concern growing over Pakistan's ability to handle an outbreak. At least one of the two cases announced Wednesday, a 22-year-old man in Karachi, appeared to have contracted the virus in Iran, authorities have said. Also read: Pakistan confirms two coronavirus cases; no need to panic, says Pak PM advisor The government has now collected the data for 1,500 people in Sindh province who have arrived in Pakistan from Iran recently, Murad Ali Shah, the chief minister for the southern province, of which Karachi is the capital, told a press conference. "They would be screened diligently until they are cleared," Shah said, adding authorities are contacting each to gauge their level of exposure and asking them all to remain at home for 15 days as a precaution. It was unclear how many more people were being screened throughout the country. Federal health minister Zafar Mirza was set to hold a press conference later on Thursday. Shah also said the provincial government was working with local surgical mask importers and manufacturers to ensure a supply for the province. Also read: 'Fear and panic' as virus threatens Afghanistan, Pakistan Doctors at Islamabad's largest public hospital where the second case was detected said they have not been given masks to treat patients. "We have been requesting that they provide us masks and other protective equipment for four days, but no one cares," Dr Fazl-i-Rabbi, president of the Young Doctors Association at the hospital. With porous borders, creaking hospitals and large illiterate populations, Pakistan faces a potentially devastating health crisis from the new coronavirus. The virus has spread to more than 30 countries, killing over 2,700 and infecting 80,000, mostly in China. Also read: Coronavirus: Severity shrinks in China as global tally continues to rise But new outbreaks in Europe, the Middle East and in Asia have fanned fears of the contagion taking hold in poor nations that lack the healthcare infrastructure to cope. There are growing fears in Pakistan sandwiched between China and Iran, both hotspots for the disease over how the country would deal with the outbreak. Islamabad has a history of failing to contain infectious diseases such as polio, tuberculosis and hepatitis. "Our preparation is zero," said Dr Tipu Sultan, a medical practitioner and well-known activist for better healthcare in Pakistan. He cited ignorance by both authorities and civilians over hygiene and how viruses can spread. Schools were closed in Sindh and in neighbouring Balochistan province, bordering Iran, on Thursday. The cost of surgical masks has already risen nearly tenfold in Karachi, from 180 rupees to 1,400 rupees per box of 50 masks.

Pakistan struggles to screen hundreds of people arriving from Iran for virus

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-coronavirus-spread-not-inevitable-mulls-new-travel-bans-282969">Trump says US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans</a>

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6763ce82-e35c-4f48-85c6-a45e2660bd9a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/120437-untitled-design-4_0.jpg" />

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response. 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-confirms-latin-americas-first-coronavirus-case-us-reports-57-cases-282954">Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases</a>

<img alt="coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="456a6913-bc9b-442f-a422-118b1cc648a8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/130499-wion1main.jpg" />

The United States reported 57 cases of the virus with President Trump declaring that he would meet US officials for a briefing on the coronavirus on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-open-to-any-initiative-after-talks-to-save-nuclear-deal-282943">Iran open to 'any initiative' after talks to save nuclear deal</a>

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8bcdc5ae-d44e-4a2e-a22b-036dc7a3fe1c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/111360-unga11.jpg" />

After talks with the remaining parties to the deal in Vienna, Iranian negotiator Abbas Araghchi said he was 'fully prepared' to reverse measures that apparently violated Tehran's commitments -- but only if the other side reciprocated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wuhan-the-chinese-city-infamous-as-coronavirus-epicenter-has-a-rich-history-282894">OPINION | Wuhan, the Chinese city infamous as coronavirus epicenter, has a rich history</a>

<img alt="Wuhan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad7569f1-ddae-4087-8a0d-10688d3d53e9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/130470-0001424su-1.jpg" />

Historically, settlements have flourished on river banks. By that distinction, Wuhan can rightly be called the cradle of the Chinese civilisation. After all, the city sits on the confluence of the two mighty rivers- Yangtze &amp; Han.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/call-me-harry-says-informal-uk-prince-as-he-starts-last-round-of-royal-duties-282930">'Call me Harry,' says informal UK prince as he starts last round of royal duties</a>

<img alt="Prince Harry" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fbccc5fa-6da6-4fbd-87ca-7d113c3007dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/113640-untitled-design-2019-10-16t093430651_0.jpg" /> 
Britain's Prince Harry started the last round of his royal duties on an informal note on Wednesday, making it clear the audience listening to his speech on sustainable travel in Edinburgh should simply call him Harry.

Watch |&nbsp;Coronavirus Outbreak: US records over 60 cases

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-us-records-over-60-cases-282970/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
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Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Trump says US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response.

Good morning. Here’s what you need to know to start your day with Wion’s daily news brief. Trump says US coronavirus spread 'not inevitable,' mulls new travel bans President Donald Trump on Wednesday said it was not inevitable that the novel coronavirus would continue to spread in the United States, as he said he is considering travel restrictions on Italy and South Korea and appointed his vice president to lead the response. Brazil confirms Latin America's first coronavirus case; US reports 57 cases The United States reported 57 cases of the virus with President Trump declaring that he would meet US officials for a briefing on the coronavirus on Wednesday. Iran open to 'any initiative' after talks to save nuclear deal After talks with the remaining parties to the deal in Vienna, Iranian negotiator Abbas Araghchi said he was 'fully prepared' to reverse measures that apparently violated Tehran's commitments -- but only if the other side reciprocated. OPINION | Wuhan, the Chinese city infamous as coronavirus epicenter, has a rich history Historically, settlements have flourished on river banks. By that distinction, Wuhan can rightly be called the cradle of the Chinese civilisation. After all, the city sits on the confluence of the two mighty rivers- Yangtze & Han. 'Call me Harry,' says informal UK prince as he starts last round of royal duties Britain's Prince Harry started the last round of his royal duties on an informal note on Wednesday, making it clear the audience listening to his speech on sustainable travel in Edinburgh should simply call him Harry. Watch | Coronavirus Outbreak: US records over 60 cases

Morning News Brief: Trump on coronavirus, Iran nuclear deal, and more

The Government has said that a special Air India flight arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, bringing back 119 Indians and five foreign nationals, who were stranded onboard a coronavirus-hit cruise ship, Diamond Princess, off Yokohama port in Japan.

According to a statement issued by the foreign ministry, apart from the 113 crew members and six passengers of India, two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated.

They will be kept under quarantine at the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) facility in Manesar near Gurgaon.

The foreigners were evacuated "in line with India's neighbourhood first policy and Indo-Pacific vision", the government said.

Among five foreign nationals two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated.

As many as 138 Indians including 132 crew and six passengers were among the 3,711 people on board the luxury cruise ship, which was quarantined off Japan on February 5 after it emerged that a former passenger had tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

Of these, 16 were tested positive for coronavirus and will stay in Japan for treatment, while the remaining will be repatriated to India.

The repatriation is being facilitated by the Indian government.

According to the latest official data, over 81,200 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide. More than 30,000 people have been cured of the disease, with over 2,600 of those having been cleared in the last 24 hours.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Government has said that a special Air India flight arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, bringing back 119 Indians and five foreign nationals, who were stranded onboard a coronavirus-hit cruise ship, Diamond Princess, off Yokohama port in Japan.

The Government has said that a special Air India flight arrived in New Delhi on Thursday, bringing back 119 Indians and five foreign nationals, who were stranded onboard a coronavirus-hit cruise ship, Diamond Princess, off Yokohama port in Japan. According to a statement issued by the foreign ministry, apart from the 113 crew members and six passengers of India, two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated. They will be kept under quarantine at the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) facility in Manesar near Gurgaon. The foreigners were evacuated "in line with India's neighbourhood first policy and Indo-Pacific vision", the government said. Among five foreign nationals two Sri Lankans, and one national each of Nepal, South Africa and Peru were evacuated. As many as 138 Indians including 132 crew and six passengers were among the 3,711 people on board the luxury cruise ship, which was quarantined off Japan on February 5 after it emerged that a former passenger had tested positive for the virus. Of these, 16 were tested positive for coronavirus and will stay in Japan for treatment, while the remaining will be repatriated to India. The repatriation is being facilitated by the Indian government. According to the latest official data, over 81,200 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported worldwide. More than 30,000 people have been cured of the disease, with over 2,600 of those having been cleared in the last 24 hours. (With inputs from ANI)

119 Indians, 5 foreigners from coronavirus-hit Japan ship land in Delhi

Iran now has the highest coronavirus death toll outside of China. Even the Deputy Health Minister of Iran has been infected by the Wuhan virus. From Iran, the disease is spreading to other West Asian countries. This report tells you more.

Gravitas: Iran struggles to contain Wuhan coronavirus

Iran said on Wednesday it was open "to any initiative" as Western powers stepped up efforts to save a 2015 deal to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions -- on life support since a 2018 decision by the US to withdraw its backing and reimpose sanctions.

After talks with the remaining parties to the deal in Vienna, Iranian negotiator Abbas Araghchi said he was "fully prepared" to reverse measures that apparently violated Tehran's commitments -- but only if the other side reciprocated.

Britain, France and Germany launched the deal's formal dispute process in January after Iran said it would no longer observe limits on the number of centrifuges used to enrich uranium -- one of the deal's key stipulations.

The dispute process spells out several steps, the last one of which is notifying the UN Security Council. UN sanctions would then automatically "snap back" after 30 days unless the Security Council voted to stop it.

Iran argued on Wednesday that it needed some benefits under the deal, which promises it sanctions relief in return for curbing its nuclear programme.

Renewed US measures have crippled the Iranian economy and were cited as the reason for Iran restarting various nuclear processes since May last year.

The European Union -- which oversaw the Vienna talks between Iran, the three western European nations, Russia and China -- said "serious concerns" had been expressed over compliance.

But the EU statement added: "Participants also acknowledged that the re-imposition of US sanctions did not allow Iran to reap the full benefits arising from sanctions-lifting."

'Far from a result'

A diplomat who asked not to be named told AFP on Tuesday that no timetable had been fixed for solving the dispute, adding "we are still far from a result".

The diplomat said everyone wanted to save the deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), so that UN inspectors could continue working in Iran.

The Internation Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been tasked with monitoring the deal's implementation and its latest report is expected within days.

"We are still open to any initiative which can ensure Iran's dividends of the JCPOA," said Araghchi, the Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, after the Vienna talks.

"We are fully prepared to reverse steps we have taken so far in return for the fulfilment of the other side's commitments under the JCPOA."

Western diplomats believe Iran is unlikely to heed calls to come back into full compliance without substantial concessions -- such as an end to US sanctions or Europe taking measures to offset their economic impact.

But they hope the use of the dispute process will convince Iran not to make any more moves away from the deal, giving space for back-channel diplomacy aimed at bringing Washington and Tehran back into alignment.

The diplomat told AFP that Iran could also "at least freeze its uranium stocks" as a possible positive outcome of the current discussions.

At a major international security conference in Munich earlier this month, Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Tehran would be prepared to move back towards the deal if Europe provides "meaningful" economic benefits.

Europe has set up a special trading mechanism called Instex to try to enable legitimate humanitarian trade with Iran, but it has yet to complete any transactions and Tehran regards it as inadequate.

The renewed US sanctions have almost entirely isolated Iran from the international financial system, driven away oil buyers and plunged the country into a severe recession.

Iran said on Wednesday it was open "to any initiative" as Western powers stepped up efforts to save a 2015 deal to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions -- on life support since a 2018 decision by the US to withdraw its backing and reimpose sanctions.

Iran said on Wednesday it was open "to any initiative" as Western powers stepped up efforts to save a 2015 deal to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions -- on life support since a 2018 decision by the US to withdraw its backing and reimpose sanctions. After talks with the remaining parties to the deal in Vienna, Iranian negotiator Abbas Araghchi said he was "fully prepared" to reverse measures that apparently violated Tehran's commitments -- but only if the other side reciprocated. Britain, France and Germany launched the deal's formal dispute process in January after Iran said it would no longer observe limits on the number of centrifuges used to enrich uranium -- one of the deal's key stipulations. The dispute process spells out several steps, the last one of which is notifying the UN Security Council. UN sanctions would then automatically "snap back" after 30 days unless the Security Council voted to stop it. Iran argued on Wednesday that it needed some benefits under the deal, which promises it sanctions relief in return for curbing its nuclear programme. Renewed US measures have crippled the Iranian economy and were cited as the reason for Iran restarting various nuclear processes since May last year. The European Union -- which oversaw the Vienna talks between Iran, the three western European nations, Russia and China -- said "serious concerns" had been expressed over compliance. But the EU statement added: "Participants also acknowledged that the re-imposition of US sanctions did not allow Iran to reap the full benefits arising from sanctions-lifting." 'Far from a result' A diplomat who asked not to be named told AFP on Tuesday that no timetable had been fixed for solving the dispute, adding "we are still far from a result". The diplomat said everyone wanted to save the deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), so that UN inspectors could continue working in Iran. The Internation Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been tasked with monitoring the deal's implementation and its latest report is expected within days. "We are still open to any initiative which can ensure Iran's dividends of the JCPOA," said Araghchi, the Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister, after the Vienna talks. "We are fully prepared to reverse steps we have taken so far in return for the fulfilment of the other side's commitments under the JCPOA." Western diplomats believe Iran is unlikely to heed calls to come back into full compliance without substantial concessions -- such as an end to US sanctions or Europe taking measures to offset their economic impact. But they hope the use of the dispute process will convince Iran not to make any more moves away from the deal, giving space for back-channel diplomacy aimed at bringing Washington and Tehran back into alignment. The diplomat told AFP that Iran could also "at least freeze its uranium stocks" as a possible positive outcome of the current discussions. At a major international security conference in Munich earlier this month, Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Tehran would be prepared to move back towards the deal if Europe provides "meaningful" economic benefits. Europe has set up a special trading mechanism called Instex to try to enable legitimate humanitarian trade with Iran, but it has yet to complete any transactions and Tehran regards it as inadequate. The renewed US sanctions have almost entirely isolated Iran from the international financial system, driven away oil buyers and plunged the country into a severe recession.

Iran open to 'any initiative' after talks to save nuclear deal

Iranian cyberpolice on Wednesday announced the arrests of 24 people accused of online rumour-mongering about the spread of a coronavirus outbreak that has claimed 19 lives in the country.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-cases-emerging-faster-outside-china-who-282939">Islamic republic is scrambling to contain COVID-19 </a>a week after announcing the first two deaths in Qom, a centre for Islamic studies that draws pilgrims and scholars from abroad.

Schools, universities and cultural centres have been closed, sporting events cancelled, and teams of sanitary workers deployed to disinfect buses, trains and public spaces.

International health experts have expressed concern about Iran's handling of the outbreak -- the deadliest for any country other than China.

Such worries mounted on Tuesday when the head of the taskforce combatting the virus, Deputy Health Minister Iraj Harirchi, admitted he himself had been infected.

But health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said the situation was "improving" even as he announced four more deaths and 44 new infections, including in six previously unaffected provinces.

The head of a newly established cyberpolice unit announced the arrest of 24 people accused of online rumour-mongering about the spread of the virus.

They were handed over to the judiciary, while 118 other internet users were briefly detained and received warnings, Vahid Majid said, cited by semi-official news agency ISNA.

The arrests were carried out after the establishment of a special unit to "combat rumour-mongers regarding the 'spread of coronavirus in the country'", he was quoted as saying.

"The police are monitoring all the news published in the country's cyberspace."

Majid said the unit would take action over news, pictures or videos that "contain rumours or fake news meant to disturb the public and increase concern in society".

'Extreme fear'

President Hassan Rouhani accused Iran's arch foe the United States of trying to use propaganda about the virus to instil "fear" against the country.

The Americans "themselves are struggling with coronavirus", Rouhani said in a weekly cabinet meeting.

He added that "16,000 people have died of influenza there but they don't talk about their own (dead)".

Rouhani's remarks came a day after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of concealing the full extent of the outbreak, saying "Tehran may have suppressed vital details".

The virus has also infected Iranian officials.

Deputy health minister Harirchi had coughed and repeatedly wiped the sweat from his brow at a joint news conference Monday with government spokesman Ali Rabiei, who is now himself awaiting the results of a coronavirus test.

Harirchi stirred controversy at the time by denying a lawmaker's claim that 50 people had died from the virus in Qom, the epicentre of Iran's outbreak.

The latest health ministry figures show the virus has spread across the country.

There were 15 new cases in the central Shiite holy city of Qom, nine in Gilan in the north, four in the Tehran, and three in Fars in southern Iran, it said.

'Slightly concerning'

The ministry added that there was one new case in each of Markazi, Kermanshah, Ardebil, Mazandaran and Semnan provinces.

Newly hit regions included southwestern Khuzestan, which had three cases.

The others were Lorestan in the west, Semnan in central Iran, the southern province of Hormozgan, and Sistan and Baluchistan as well as Kohgiluyeh and Boyerahmad in the southeast, which all had two cases each.

The health ministry's spokesman, Jahanpour, appeared optimistic about the situation in the worst-hit province of Qom, south of Tehran.

"Every 24 hours at least 10 per cent of those hospitalised or suspect cases are discharged with good general health," said the official.

But in Gilan, "things are slightly concerning", he added, as it has had the second-highest number of new cases, including people who had made trips to other provinces.

The health minister has repeatedly called on Iranians to refrain from travelling to other provinces, especially those infected like Gilan.

Iran is yet to quarantine any of the infected cities, including Qom, with authorities dismissing the method as outdated and ineffective.

Iranian cyberpolice on Wednesday announced the arrests of 24 people accused of online rumour-mongering about the spread of a coronavirus outbreak that has claimed 19 lives in the country.

Iranian cyberpolice on Wednesday announced the arrests of 24 people accused of online rumour-mongering about the spread of a coronavirus outbreak that has claimed 19 lives in the country. The Islamic republic is scrambling to contain COVID-19 a week after announcing the first two deaths in Qom, a centre for Islamic studies that draws pilgrims and scholars from abroad. Schools, universities and cultural centres have been closed, sporting events cancelled, and teams of sanitary workers deployed to disinfect buses, trains and public spaces. International health experts have expressed concern about Iran's handling of the outbreak -- the deadliest for any country other than China. Such worries mounted on Tuesday when the head of the taskforce combatting the virus, Deputy Health Minister Iraj Harirchi, admitted he himself had been infected. But health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said the situation was "improving" even as he announced four more deaths and 44 new infections, including in six previously unaffected provinces. The head of a newly established cyberpolice unit announced the arrest of 24 people accused of online rumour-mongering about the spread of the virus. They were handed over to the judiciary, while 118 other internet users were briefly detained and received warnings, Vahid Majid said, cited by semi-official news agency ISNA. The arrests were carried out after the establishment of a special unit to "combat rumour-mongers regarding the 'spread of coronavirus in the country'", he was quoted as saying. "The police are monitoring all the news published in the country's cyberspace." Majid said the unit would take action over news, pictures or videos that "contain rumours or fake news meant to disturb the public and increase concern in society". 'Extreme fear' President Hassan Rouhani accused Iran's arch foe the United States of trying to use propaganda about the virus to instil "fear" against the country. The Americans "themselves are struggling with coronavirus", Rouhani said in a weekly cabinet meeting. He added that "16,000 people have died of influenza there but they don't talk about their own (dead)". Rouhani's remarks came a day after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of concealing the full extent of the outbreak, saying "Tehran may have suppressed vital details". The virus has also infected Iranian officials. Deputy health minister Harirchi had coughed and repeatedly wiped the sweat from his brow at a joint news conference Monday with government spokesman Ali Rabiei, who is now himself awaiting the results of a coronavirus test. Harirchi stirred controversy at the time by denying a lawmaker's claim that 50 people had died from the virus in Qom, the epicentre of Iran's outbreak. The latest health ministry figures show the virus has spread across the country. There were 15 new cases in the central Shiite holy city of Qom, nine in Gilan in the north, four in the Tehran, and three in Fars in southern Iran, it said. 'Slightly concerning' The ministry added that there was one new case in each of Markazi, Kermanshah, Ardebil, Mazandaran and Semnan provinces. Newly hit regions included southwestern Khuzestan, which had three cases. The others were Lorestan in the west, Semnan in central Iran, the southern province of Hormozgan, and Sistan and Baluchistan as well as Kohgiluyeh and Boyerahmad in the southeast, which all had two cases each. The health ministry's spokesman, Jahanpour, appeared optimistic about the situation in the worst-hit province of Qom, south of Tehran. "Every 24 hours at least 10 per cent of those hospitalised or suspect cases are discharged with good general health," said the official. But in Gilan, "things are slightly concerning", he added, as it has had the second-highest number of new cases, including people who had made trips to other provinces. The health minister has repeatedly called on Iranians to refrain from travelling to other provinces, especially those infected like Gilan. Iran is yet to quarantine any of the infected cities, including Qom, with authorities dismissing the method as outdated and ineffective.

Cyberpolice in virus-hit Iran arrest 24 over COVID-19 rumours

Two more Iranians infected with coronavirus have died, media website Eghtesaonline said on Tuesday, taking to 14 the toll in the Islamic Republic, which has the highest tally of deaths outside China, where the virus emerged late last year.

Two more Iranians infected with coronavirus have died, media website Eghtesaonline said on Tuesday, taking to 14 the toll in the Islamic Republic, which has the highest tally of deaths outside China, where the virus emerged late last year. "Tests showed they had the new coronavirus," the head of the Medical Science University of Saveh said, according to the website. Iran's state TV said a team from the World Health Organisation (WHO) will arrive in the country on Tuesday. On Monday, the health ministry said 61 people had been infected in Iran and that around 900 other cases were suspected. Also Read: China, South Korea, Iran worst-hit from COVID-19, WHO warns of pandemic Iran has yet to say how many people it has quarantined but the semi-official Mehr news agency said 320 people had been hospitalised in the Shi'ite holy city of Qom, where Tehran confirmed its first two deaths last week. The outbreak in Iran comes as its clerical rulers face mounting US pressure that has hit the economy hard. Washington exited Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers in 2018 and has reimposed sanctions on the country. The outbreak threatens to isolate Iran even further, with several countries suspending flights after coronavirus cases in travellers from Iran were confirmed in Canada, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan and Iraq. Also Read: Washington pledges $1 billion for coronavirus vaccine as pandemic risks grow Some neighbouring countries have closed their borders. An airport representative said on Tuesday that Dubai International Airport has suspended all flights to and from the Islamic Republic, except for Tehran. Six Arab countries have reported their first cases of coronavirus, with those infected all having links to Iran. Kuwait said on Tuesday the total number of infected people there had risen to eight. Bahrain said it also had eight cases, four of whom were Saudi nationals and two Bahrainis. To prevent the spread of the virus, Iranian authorities have ordered the nationwide cancellation of concerts, soccer matches, closures of schools and universities in many provinces as a precaution.

Iran's coronavirus death toll reaches 14

The death toll of the deadly coronavirus has reached to 2469 with more than 77,000 cases around the world. New hotbeds of COVID-19 are emerging around the world with South Korea, Iran and Italy recording a spike in infections. Watch report:

Coronavirus death toll surges to 2, 469

Turkey on Sunday announced it would "temporarily" close its land border with neighbouring Iran as alarm grows over a spike in new coronavirus infections.

"We have decided to shut the land border temporarily after an increase in the number of cases in our neighbour Iran," Health Minister Fahrettin Koca told reporters. He said air traffic would be unilaterally halted from 2000 (1700 GMT).&nbsp;

Iran confirmed eight deaths from the novel coronavirus on Sunday, the highest toll of any country outside China, as the supreme leader accused foreign media of trying to use the outbreak to sabotage a general election.

The final results of the parliamentary election are due on Sunday, two days after it was held on the heels of the confirmation of novel coronavirus cases in the country.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-43-infected-with-coronavirus-eight-dead-official-282211">Iran says 43 infected with coronavirus, eight dead - Official</a>

A low turnout had been widely forecast, as a conservative-dominated electoral watchdog disqualified about half the 16,000-odd candidates, mostly moderates and reformists.

Voter apathy marked the polls, but Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday lauded the people's "huge participation" despite what he termed "this negative propaganda".

It "began a few months ago and grew larger approaching the election and in the past two days, under the pretext of this illness," he said, according to a televised extract of his speech.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-is-chinas-biggest-health-emergency-president-xi-jinping-282217">Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency' - President Xi Jinping</a>

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"Their media did not miss the slightest opportunity to discourage people from voting. (Our enemies) are even opposed to any election by the Iranian people," the leader was quoted as saying on his official website.

The latest three deaths Iran reported on Sunday were among 15 new confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus, bringing the overall number of infections to 43 and fatalities to eight -- the highest death toll outside of China, the epicentre of the epidemic.&nbsp;

Four new infections surfaced in the capital Tehran, seven in the holy city of Qom, two in Gilan and one each in Markazi and Tonekabon, health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said.

Authorities have ordered as a "preventive measure" the closure of schools, universities and other educational centres in 14 provinces across Iran from Sunday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-raises-alert-to-highest-level-as-coronavirus-cases-jump-282208">South Korea raises alert to highest level as coronavirus cases jump</a>

They include Tehran and Qom, where the first cases emerged, as well as Markazi, Gilan, Ardabil, Kermanshah, Qazvin, Zanjan, Mazandaran, Golestan, Hamedan, Alborz, Semnan and Kurdistan.

Art events, concerts and film shows have been banned for a week.

"We are on the frontlines, we need help," the head of Qom's medical sciences university, Mohammadreza Ghadir, said on state television.

"If I can say one thing, it is help Qom."

Iran's neighbours have started to take precautions against the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The Kuwait Port Authority on Sunday announced a ban on the entry of all ships from the Islamic republic.

Turkey on Sunday announced it would "temporarily" close its land border with neighbouring Iran as alarm grows over a spike in new coronavirus infections. "We have decided to shut the land border temporarily after an increase in the number of cases in our neighbour Iran," Health Minister Fahrettin Koca told reporters.

Turkey on Sunday announced it would "temporarily" close its land border with neighbouring Iran as alarm grows over a spike in new coronavirus infections. "We have decided to shut the land border temporarily after an increase in the number of cases in our neighbour Iran," Health Minister Fahrettin Koca told reporters. He said air traffic would be unilaterally halted from 2000 (1700 GMT). Iran confirmed eight deaths from the novel coronavirus on Sunday, the highest toll of any country outside China, as the supreme leader accused foreign media of trying to use the outbreak to sabotage a general election. The final results of the parliamentary election are due on Sunday, two days after it was held on the heels of the confirmation of novel coronavirus cases in the country. Also read: Iran says 43 infected with coronavirus, eight dead - Official A low turnout had been widely forecast, as a conservative-dominated electoral watchdog disqualified about half the 16,000-odd candidates, mostly moderates and reformists. Voter apathy marked the polls, but Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday lauded the people's "huge participation" despite what he termed "this negative propaganda". It "began a few months ago and grew larger approaching the election and in the past two days, under the pretext of this illness," he said, according to a televised extract of his speech. Also read: Coronavirus is China's 'biggest health emergency' - President Xi Jinping × "Their media did not miss the slightest opportunity to discourage people from voting. (Our enemies) are even opposed to any election by the Iranian people," the leader was quoted as saying on his official website. The latest three deaths Iran reported on Sunday were among 15 new confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus, bringing the overall number of infections to 43 and fatalities to eight -- the highest death toll outside of China, the epicentre of the epidemic. Four new infections surfaced in the capital Tehran, seven in the holy city of Qom, two in Gilan and one each in Markazi and Tonekabon, health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said. Authorities have ordered as a "preventive measure" the closure of schools, universities and other educational centres in 14 provinces across Iran from Sunday. Also read: South Korea raises alert to highest level as coronavirus cases jump They include Tehran and Qom, where the first cases emerged, as well as Markazi, Gilan, Ardabil, Kermanshah, Qazvin, Zanjan, Mazandaran, Golestan, Hamedan, Alborz, Semnan and Kurdistan. Art events, concerts and film shows have been banned for a week. "We are on the frontlines, we need help," the head of Qom's medical sciences university, Mohammadreza Ghadir, said on state television. "If I can say one thing, it is help Qom." Iran's neighbours have started to take precautions against the spread of the virus. The Kuwait Port Authority on Sunday announced a ban on the entry of all ships from the Islamic republic.

Turkey says will 'temporarily' close Iran border over virus fears

Jordan said on Sunday it would bar entry to citizens of China, Iran and South Korea and other foreigners travelling from those countries in response to the deadly coronavirus outbreak.

The minister of state for media affairs, Amjad Adayleh, said the decision was part of "preemptive measures... following the rise in cases of coronavirus in South Korea, Iran" and China.

Adayleh said the ban would be "temporary" and imposed on all non-Jordanians coming from the three nations among the worst affected by the illness.

"Jordanians who come from those countries will be placed in quarantine for two weeks to ensure they have not contracted the coronavirus," he said.

His comments came as South Korea on Sunday raised its alert on the new coronavirus to the highest level after reporting three more deaths and 169 new infections.

Iran reported three more novel coronavirus deaths among 15 new cases in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of fatalities in the Islamic republic to eight and infections to 43.

Jordan has so far not reported any cases of coronavirus in the kingdom.

Jordan said on Sunday it would bar entry to citizens of China, Iran and South Korea and other foreigners travelling from those countries in response to the deadly coronavirus outbreak.

Jordan said on Sunday it would bar entry to citizens of China, Iran and South Korea and other foreigners travelling from those countries in response to the deadly coronavirus outbreak. The minister of state for media affairs, Amjad Adayleh, said the decision was part of "preemptive measures... following the rise in cases of coronavirus in South Korea, Iran" and China. Adayleh said the ban would be "temporary" and imposed on all non-Jordanians coming from the three nations among the worst affected by the illness. "Jordanians who come from those countries will be placed in quarantine for two weeks to ensure they have not contracted the coronavirus," he said. His comments came as South Korea on Sunday raised its alert on the new coronavirus to the highest level after reporting three more deaths and 169 new infections. Iran reported three more novel coronavirus deaths among 15 new cases in the past 24 hours, taking the total number of fatalities in the Islamic republic to eight and infections to 43. Jordan has so far not reported any cases of coronavirus in the kingdom.

Jordan bars travellers from China, Iran, SKorea over virus

Iran has confirmed 15 new cases of the new coronavirus, taking the total to 43 with a death toll of eight. Most of the infections have been in the Shi'ite Muslim holy city of Qom.

"The virus came from China to Qom city. A Merchant from Qom who died of the virus used to regularly travel to China ... Flights were suspended between the two countries but he used indirect flights," Health Minister Saeed Namaki said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-raises-alert-to-highest-level-as-coronavirus-cases-jump-282208">South Korea raises alert to highest level as coronavirus cases jump</a>

He urged people to avoid travelling to Qom, a major destination for Shi'ite pilgrims 120 km (75 miles) south of the capital Tehran.

"Obviously we do not recommend trips to Qom or any other holy Shi'ite cities in Iran," Namaki said on state television.

Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur announced the 15 new cases earlier on Sunday.

"So far, we have 43 infected cases and the death toll is eight," he told the television.

Eight of the new infections were in Qom, where authorities have shut down schools and religious seminaries. In Tehran and some other cities, schools have been closed until Tuesday.

Iran has confirmed 15 new cases of the new coronavirus, taking the total to 43 with a death toll of eight. Most of the infections have been in the Shi'ite Muslim holy city of Qom.

Iran has confirmed 15 new cases of the new coronavirus, taking the total to 43 with a death toll of eight. Most of the infections have been in the Shi'ite Muslim holy city of Qom. "The virus came from China to Qom city. A Merchant from Qom who died of the virus used to regularly travel to China ... Flights were suspended between the two countries but he used indirect flights," Health Minister Saeed Namaki said. Also read: South Korea raises alert to highest level as coronavirus cases jump He urged people to avoid travelling to Qom, a major destination for Shi'ite pilgrims 120 km (75 miles) south of the capital Tehran. "Obviously we do not recommend trips to Qom or any other holy Shi'ite cities in Iran," Namaki said on state television. Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur announced the 15 new cases earlier on Sunday. "So far, we have 43 infected cases and the death toll is eight," he told the television. Eight of the new infections were in Qom, where authorities have shut down schools and religious seminaries. In Tehran and some other cities, schools have been closed until Tuesday.

Iran says 43 infected with coronavirus, eight dead: Official

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday Iran's enemies tried to put people off voting in Friday's parliamentary election by exaggerating the threat of the new coronavirus but that participation had been good.

Iranian authorities have yet to announce the turnout and the final result of the February&nbsp;21 election for the 290-seat parliament — a litmus test of the popularity of the establishment.

Some unconfirmed reports said the turnout was around 45%. If confirmed, it would be the lowest turnout since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution.

"This negative propaganda about the virus began a couple of months ago and grew larger ahead of the election," said Khamenei, according to his official website Khamenei.ir.

"Their media did not miss the tiniest opportunity for dissuading Iranian voters and resorting to the excuse of disease and the virus."

Iran, which confirmed its first case of the new coronavirus two days before the polls, has announced 28 cases of the virus in four different cities, including Tehran. With seven deaths, Iran has the highest death toll from the new coronavirus outside of China, the homeland of the outbreak.

The United States’ 2018 withdrawal from Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers, and its reimposition of sanctions, have hit Iran’s economy hard.

The country's clerical rulers, who are under intense U.S. pressure, need a high turnout to boost their legitimacy, which was damaged after nationwide protests in November.

The demonstrations were met with a violent crackdown that deepened resentment over economic hardship and corruption. Khamenei on Friday urged Iranians to vote, saying that voting was "a religious duty".

The hardline Guardian Council, which must approve candidates, removed thousands of moderates and leading conservatives from the race by barring about 6,850 hopefuls from in favour of hardliners from among 14,000 applicants.

Some early results announced by the interior ministry indicated that hardline loyalists close to Khamenei were set to gain a majority in the parliament.

"Our people's participation in Friday's election was good," said Khamenei. Turnout was 62% in the 2016 parliamentary vote and 66% of people voted in 2012.

The vote will have no major influence on foreign affairs or Iran's nuclear policy, which are determined by Khamenei. But it might bolster hardliners in the 2021 contest for president and toughen Tehran’s foreign policy.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday Iran's enemies tried to put people off voting in Friday's parliamentary election by exaggerating the threat of the new coronavirus but that participation had been good.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday Iran's enemies tried to put people off voting in Friday's parliamentary election by exaggerating the threat of the new coronavirus but that participation had been good. Iranian authorities have yet to announce the turnout and the final result of the February 21 election for the 290-seat parliament — a litmus test of the popularity of the establishment. Some unconfirmed reports said the turnout was around 45%. If confirmed, it would be the lowest turnout since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution. "This negative propaganda about the virus began a couple of months ago and grew larger ahead of the election," said Khamenei, according to his official website Khamenei.ir. "Their media did not miss the tiniest opportunity for dissuading Iranian voters and resorting to the excuse of disease and the virus." Iran, which confirmed its first case of the new coronavirus two days before the polls, has announced 28 cases of the virus in four different cities, including Tehran. With seven deaths, Iran has the highest death toll from the new coronavirus outside of China, the homeland of the outbreak. The United States’ 2018 withdrawal from Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers, and its reimposition of sanctions, have hit Iran’s economy hard. The country's clerical rulers, who are under intense U.S. pressure, need a high turnout to boost their legitimacy, which was damaged after nationwide protests in November. The demonstrations were met with a violent crackdown that deepened resentment over economic hardship and corruption. Khamenei on Friday urged Iranians to vote, saying that voting was "a religious duty". The hardline Guardian Council, which must approve candidates, removed thousands of moderates and leading conservatives from the race by barring about 6,850 hopefuls from in favour of hardliners from among 14,000 applicants. Some early results announced by the interior ministry indicated that hardline loyalists close to Khamenei were set to gain a majority in the parliament. "Our people's participation in Friday's election was good," said Khamenei. Turnout was 62% in the 2016 parliamentary vote and 66% of people voted in 2012. The vote will have no major influence on foreign affairs or Iran's nuclear policy, which are determined by Khamenei. But it might bolster hardliners in the 2021 contest for president and toughen Tehran’s foreign policy.

Iran's leader says enemies tried to use coronavirus to impact vote

Candidates affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards looked on course to win a parliamentary majority on Saturday, reportedly leading in the race in Tehran and across the country after a vote stacked in favour of loyalists to the supreme leader.

The Interior Ministry said a list of candidates affiliated with the Guards led in the capital. An unofficial tally by Reuters shows hardliners have so far won about 178 seats in the 290-seat parliament, independents 43 and moderates 17.

In some constituencies, where candidates failed to get 20% of votes cast on Friday, a run-off will be held in April.

A clean sweep for hardliners would confirm the political demise of the country's pragmatist politicians, weakened by Washington's decision to quit a 2015 nuclear deal and reimpose sanctions in a move that stifled rapprochement with the West.

However, Iranian authorities have yet to announce the turnout in the race for the 290-seat legislature - a test of the popularity of hardliners closely associated with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran's rulers, under intense U.S. pressure over the country's nuclear programme, need a high turnout to boost their legitimacy, damaged after nationwide protests in November.

Some unconfirmed reports suggested voter participation was about 45%, the lowest since the 1979 Islamic revolution. Khamenei on Friday said voting was "a religious duty".

Turnout was 62% in the 2016 parliamentary vote and 66% of people voted in 2012.

In Tehran, which accounts for 30 seats in parliament, the hardline candidates were headed by Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, a former mayor of the capital who once commanded the Guards' air force.

Qalibaf’s chances of becoming parliament speaker hinge on gaining the trust of hardliners, who struggled for days to reach consensus on a single slate for Tehran.

Guardian council

Parliamentary elections have little impact on Iran's foreign or nuclear policies, which are set by Khamenei, and major pro-reform parties have been either banned or dismantled since the disputed re-election of hardliner Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in the 2009 presidential vote.

The Guardian Council, a hardline vetting body, disqualified 6,850 hopefuls out of 14,000, ranging from moderates to conservatives, from contesting parliament polls.

In the latest challenge to Khamenei, Iran announced the detection of 28 cases of coronavirus, with five deaths.

Khamenei faces mounting pressure from the United States over Iran's nuclear programme and discontent over mismanagement of the economy is unlikely to ease as sanctions squeeze the country.

President Donald Trump raised the stakes in his standoff with Tehran when Iran's top general, Qassem Soleimani, was killed in a U.S. drone strike at Baghdad airport in January.

Large gains in Friday's vote may also hand hardliners an advantage in the 2021 contest for president, a job with wide day-to-day control of government.

Such a result would help the Guards, already omnipresent in Iranians' daily lives, to increase their substantial influence in political, social and economic affairs.

The unrest in November, which called for regime change, was met with a violent crackdown overseen by the Guards that killed hundreds and led to the arrest of thousands.

Candidates affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards looked on course to win a parliamentary majority on Saturday, reportedly leading in the race in Tehran and across the country after a vote stacked in favour of loyalists to the supreme leader.

Candidates affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards looked on course to win a parliamentary majority on Saturday, reportedly leading in the race in Tehran and across the country after a vote stacked in favour of loyalists to the supreme leader. The Interior Ministry said a list of candidates affiliated with the Guards led in the capital. An unofficial tally by Reuters shows hardliners have so far won about 178 seats in the 290-seat parliament, independents 43 and moderates 17. In some constituencies, where candidates failed to get 20% of votes cast on Friday, a run-off will be held in April. A clean sweep for hardliners would confirm the political demise of the country's pragmatist politicians, weakened by Washington's decision to quit a 2015 nuclear deal and reimpose sanctions in a move that stifled rapprochement with the West. However, Iranian authorities have yet to announce the turnout in the race for the 290-seat legislature - a test of the popularity of hardliners closely associated with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran's rulers, under intense U.S. pressure over the country's nuclear programme, need a high turnout to boost their legitimacy, damaged after nationwide protests in November. Some unconfirmed reports suggested voter participation was about 45%, the lowest since the 1979 Islamic revolution. Khamenei on Friday said voting was "a religious duty". Turnout was 62% in the 2016 parliamentary vote and 66% of people voted in 2012. In Tehran, which accounts for 30 seats in parliament, the hardline candidates were headed by Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, a former mayor of the capital who once commanded the Guards' air force. Qalibaf’s chances of becoming parliament speaker hinge on gaining the trust of hardliners, who struggled for days to reach consensus on a single slate for Tehran. Guardian council Parliamentary elections have little impact on Iran's foreign or nuclear policies, which are set by Khamenei, and major pro-reform parties have been either banned or dismantled since the disputed re-election of hardliner Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in the 2009 presidential vote. The Guardian Council, a hardline vetting body, disqualified 6,850 hopefuls out of 14,000, ranging from moderates to conservatives, from contesting parliament polls. In the latest challenge to Khamenei, Iran announced the detection of 28 cases of coronavirus, with five deaths. Khamenei faces mounting pressure from the United States over Iran's nuclear programme and discontent over mismanagement of the economy is unlikely to ease as sanctions squeeze the country. President Donald Trump raised the stakes in his standoff with Tehran when Iran's top general, Qassem Soleimani, was killed in a U.S. drone strike at Baghdad airport in January. Large gains in Friday's vote may also hand hardliners an advantage in the 2021 contest for president, a job with wide day-to-day control of government. Such a result would help the Guards, already omnipresent in Iranians' daily lives, to increase their substantial influence in political, social and economic affairs. The unrest in November, which called for regime change, was met with a violent crackdown overseen by the Guards that killed hundreds and led to the arrest of thousands.

Hardline Guards make early gains in restricted Iran election

Iran blacklisted over failure to curb terror funding. According to FATF Iran failed to implement its action plans and there could be adverse consequences for Iran. On the other hand, Iran says that FATF was pressured by America.

Iran put on terror financing blacklist

Having gone through a formal qualification process by Iran’s Guardian Council, a total of 7,148 candidates, including dozens of Iranians from the religious minorities, are running for the parliament. There are 290 seats in the parliament up for grabs.

Iran's Parliamentary Election first result comes in

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