US National Security Advisor John Bolton vowed Tuesday to "squeeze" Iran "until the pips squeak", a week after a tough new round of sanctions came into force.

President Donald Trump has dramatically increased pressure on Tehran, withdrawing from an international agreement aimed at ending its nuclear programme and introducing several rounds of unilateral US sanctions.

The latest tranche of measures have been touted as the toughest yet, and aim to significantly reduce Iran's vital oil exports and cut off its banks from international finance.

Speaking in Singapore ahead of a summit, Bolton said: "We think the government is under real pressure and it's our intention to squeeze them very hard.

"As the British say, squeeze them until the pips squeak.

"We are also going to significantly increase the enforcement of sanctions."

The US measures have been opposed by other parties to the deal aimed at ending Iran's nuclear drive -- Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia -- who have vowed to keep the accord alive.

"There's no doubt Iran has already started to try and find ways to evade the sanctions both on oil in particular and financial markets," Bolton added.

UN inspectors say Iran is abiding by the agreement.

Bolton, however, said that "most of the countries of Europe have passed through denial and anger and many of them are already at acceptance that we're out of the deal.

"Others are getting to that point."

In the face of widespread opposition to the sanctions, Washington issued exemptions to eight countries to its ban on buying oil from major producer Iran.

Washington is demanding that Tehran end policies rooted in the 1979 Islamist revolution, including its support for regional proxies such as the Lebanese militia Hezbollah and its development of missiles.

The only support for the US position has come from Iran's regional rivals, notably Saudi Arabia and Israel.

The International Monetary Fund has forecast that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton vowed Tuesday to "squeeze" Iran "until the pips squeak", a week after a tough new round of sanctions came into force. President Donald Trump has dramatically increased pressure on Tehran, withdrawing from an international agreement aimed at ending its nuclear programme and introducing several rounds of unilateral US sanctions.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton vowed Tuesday to "squeeze" Iran "until the pips squeak", a week after a tough new round of sanctions came into force. President Donald Trump has dramatically increased pressure on Tehran, withdrawing from an international agreement aimed at ending its nuclear programme and introducing several rounds of unilateral US sanctions. The latest tranche of measures have been touted as the toughest yet, and aim to significantly reduce Iran's vital oil exports and cut off its banks from international finance. Speaking in Singapore ahead of a summit, Bolton said: "We think the government is under real pressure and it's our intention to squeeze them very hard. "As the British say, squeeze them until the pips squeak. "We are also going to significantly increase the enforcement of sanctions." The US measures have been opposed by other parties to the deal aimed at ending Iran's nuclear drive -- Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia -- who have vowed to keep the accord alive. "There's no doubt Iran has already started to try and find ways to evade the sanctions both on oil in particular and financial markets," Bolton added. UN inspectors say Iran is abiding by the agreement. Bolton, however, said that "most of the countries of Europe have passed through denial and anger and many of them are already at acceptance that we're out of the deal. "Others are getting to that point." In the face of widespread opposition to the sanctions, Washington issued exemptions to eight countries to its ban on buying oil from major producer Iran. Washington is demanding that Tehran end policies rooted in the 1979 Islamist revolution, including its support for regional proxies such as the Lebanese militia Hezbollah and its development of missiles. The only support for the US position has come from Iran's regional rivals, notably Saudi Arabia and Israel. The International Monetary Fund has forecast that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year.

US security chief Bolton vows to 'squeeze' Iran

Iran has been abiding by the terms of its nuclear deal with global powers, the latest report from the UN atomic watchdog indicated Monday, days after fresh US sanctions hit the country.

The International Atomic Energy Agency's latest report showed that as of early November, Iran had been complying with the restrictions to its nuclear programme laid down in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

Sweeping new American sanctions against Iran, which came into effect on 5 November, have raised fears about whether the deal can survive.

Iran has been abiding by the terms of its nuclear deal with global powers, the latest report from the UN atomic watchdog indicated Monday, days after fresh US sanctions hit the country.

Iran has been abiding by the terms of its nuclear deal with global powers, the latest report from the UN atomic watchdog indicated Monday, days after fresh US sanctions hit the country. The International Atomic Energy Agency's latest report showed that as of early November, Iran had been complying with the restrictions to its nuclear programme laid down in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Sweeping new American sanctions against Iran, which came into effect on 5 November, have raised fears about whether the deal can survive.

Iran sticking to nuclear deal conditions: IAEA

Iranian border guards killed two Pakistani men and injured four others after they tried to enter the Iranian territory through an illegal route in Panjgur district of the restive Baluchistan province.&nbsp;

Baluchistan Levies Force officials said a group of seven persons in a van were trying to cross the Pakistan-Iran border without legal documents in Prom area when the Iranian border guards opened fire at them.

Only the driver of the van remained unhurt, they said, adding that the persons belonged to Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhawa provinces.&nbsp;

Iranian border guards killed two Pakistani men and injured four others after they tried to enter the Iranian territory through an illegal route in Panjgur district of the restive Baluchistan province.

Iranian border guards killed two Pakistani men and injured four others after they tried to enter the Iranian territory through an illegal route in Panjgur district of the restive Baluchistan province. Baluchistan Levies Force officials said a group of seven persons in a van were trying to cross the Pakistan-Iran border without legal documents in Prom area when the Iranian border guards opened fire at them. Only the driver of the van remained unhurt, they said, adding that the persons belonged to Baluchistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhawa provinces.

Iranian border guards kill two, injure four Pakistanis for crossing territory illegally

Afghanistan rivals failed to reach a breakthrough on holding direct peace negotiations after international talks in Moscow on Friday, the latest international push to end the conflict.

Russia, which said it invited representatives from the United States as well as India, Iran, China and&nbsp;Pakistan, hailed the meeting as an opportunity to "open a new page" in Afghanistan's history and seek an end to the war 17 years after the US-led invasion.

The talks came with the Taliban ratcheting up pressure on Afghan police and troops this year even as the militants showed a tentative willingness to hold talks with the United States.

The Moscow meetings ended without the sides agreeing on a path to direct dialogue, the delegations from the Taliban and Kabul's High Peace Council said.

"This conference was not about direct talks," Taliban spokesman Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai told journalists in translated comments quoted by Interfax news agency.

The Taliban "does not recognise the current government as legal and therefore we won't hold talks with them," he added.

"Considering our main demand is the withdrawal of foreign forces, we will discuss a peaceful resolution with the Americans."

A Taliban delegation met with US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Qatar in October to discuss ending the Afghan conflict.

Russia says the Moscow talks marked the first time that a Taliban delegation had taken part in such high-level international meeting.

Afghan delegation member Hajji Din Mohammad told journalists that Russia invited them to a new meeting but that "agreement was not reached on holding direct talks" with the Taliban, RIA Novosti news agency reported.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had said as the talks opened that Russia hoped "through joint efforts to open a new page in the history of Afghanistan".&nbsp;

He said the participation of both Afghan leaders and the Taliban was an "important contribution" aimed at creating "favourable conditions for the start of direct talks".

"I am counting on you holding a serious and constructive conversation that will justify the hopes of the Afghan people," he said before the rest of the meeting was held behind closed doors at a Moscow hotel.

'Greater' chance for peace

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg had said Tuesday that Afghanistan's chances for peace were "greater now" than in many years, even as the Taliban step up attacks on Afghan forces, which are suffering record high casualties.&nbsp;

The Taliban sent five representatives to Moscow but insisted they would not hold any negotiations with the delegation from Kabul.

The Afghan delegation was made up of four representatives of the High Peace Council, a government body responsible for reconciliation efforts with the militants, spokesman Sayed Ihsan Taheri said.

The Afghan foreign ministry emphasised that the council did not represent the Afghan government at the meeting, however, but was acting as a "national" non-government institution.

Pakistan, which has long been accused of providing support to the Afghan Taliban, hailed their presence at the talks.

The US embassy in Moscow sent a representative to observe the discussions.

US President Donald Trump launched a revised Afghan plan more than a year ago that saw the US scrap any timetables for a US pullout and re-commit thousands more troops to Afghanistan, most of them dedicated to training and advising local forces.

The Moscow meeting was initially scheduled for September but was postponed after Kabul insisted the process should be Afghan-led.&nbsp;

The meeting came at a sensitive time.

Newly appointed US peace envoy Khalilzad has been trying to convince the Taliban to agree to negotiate an end to the war and there are fears the Russian meeting could derail those efforts. &nbsp;

A US government watchdog last week said Kabul's control of Afghanistan had slipped in recent months as local security forces suffered heavy casualties while making minimal or no progress against the Taliban.

Afghanistan rivals failed to reach a breakthrough on holding direct peace negotiations after international talks in Moscow on Friday, the latest international push to end the conflict.

Afghanistan rivals failed to reach a breakthrough on holding direct peace negotiations after international talks in Moscow on Friday, the latest international push to end the conflict. Russia, which said it invited representatives from the United States as well as India, Iran, China and Pakistan, hailed the meeting as an opportunity to "open a new page" in Afghanistan's history and seek an end to the war 17 years after the US-led invasion. The talks came with the Taliban ratcheting up pressure on Afghan police and troops this year even as the militants showed a tentative willingness to hold talks with the United States. The Moscow meetings ended without the sides agreeing on a path to direct dialogue, the delegations from the Taliban and Kabul's High Peace Council said. "This conference was not about direct talks," Taliban spokesman Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai told journalists in translated comments quoted by Interfax news agency. The Taliban "does not recognise the current government as legal and therefore we won't hold talks with them," he added. "Considering our main demand is the withdrawal of foreign forces, we will discuss a peaceful resolution with the Americans." A Taliban delegation met with US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Qatar in October to discuss ending the Afghan conflict. Russia says the Moscow talks marked the first time that a Taliban delegation had taken part in such high-level international meeting. Afghan delegation member Hajji Din Mohammad told journalists that Russia invited them to a new meeting but that "agreement was not reached on holding direct talks" with the Taliban, RIA Novosti news agency reported. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov had said as the talks opened that Russia hoped "through joint efforts to open a new page in the history of Afghanistan". He said the participation of both Afghan leaders and the Taliban was an "important contribution" aimed at creating "favourable conditions for the start of direct talks". "I am counting on you holding a serious and constructive conversation that will justify the hopes of the Afghan people," he said before the rest of the meeting was held behind closed doors at a Moscow hotel. 'Greater' chance for peace NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg had said Tuesday that Afghanistan's chances for peace were "greater now" than in many years, even as the Taliban step up attacks on Afghan forces, which are suffering record high casualties. The Taliban sent five representatives to Moscow but insisted they would not hold any negotiations with the delegation from Kabul. The Afghan delegation was made up of four representatives of the High Peace Council, a government body responsible for reconciliation efforts with the militants, spokesman Sayed Ihsan Taheri said. The Afghan foreign ministry emphasised that the council did not represent the Afghan government at the meeting, however, but was acting as a "national" non-government institution. Pakistan, which has long been accused of providing support to the Afghan Taliban, hailed their presence at the talks. The US embassy in Moscow sent a representative to observe the discussions. US President Donald Trump launched a revised Afghan plan more than a year ago that saw the US scrap any timetables for a US pullout and re-commit thousands more troops to Afghanistan, most of them dedicated to training and advising local forces. The Moscow meeting was initially scheduled for September but was postponed after Kabul insisted the process should be Afghan-led. The meeting came at a sensitive time. Newly appointed US peace envoy Khalilzad has been trying to convince the Taliban to agree to negotiate an end to the war and there are fears the Russian meeting could derail those efforts. A US government watchdog last week said Kabul's control of Afghanistan had slipped in recent months as local security forces suffered heavy casualties while making minimal or no progress against the Taliban.

Afghan rivals say no closer to direct talks after Moscow meeting

US National Security Advisor John Bolton said Thursday that more sanctions were possible on Iran just days after a new round of measures touted as the most punishing ever on Tehran entered into force.

Bolton said two rounds of unilateral US sanctions introduced by President Donald Trump in August and most recently on Monday had had a "quite significant" effect on the Iranian economy and the country's actions abroad.

"I think that you're going to see even more sanctions coming into play over time and much tighter enforcement of the sanctions," Bolton told reporters in Paris.

Asked what would be the target of the sanctions, he replied, "There are other things we can do in the terrorism and counterterrorism area."

The International Monetary Fund forecasts that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year -- pain that Trump has boasted about.

"We've seen indications that it has affected their belligerent activity in Iraq, Syria and Yemen. Not enough yet, but it's beginning to have that effect," Bolton said.

"We've seen a continuation and exacerbation of political discontent inside Iran. That opposition continues to manifest itself. Economically the Iranian currency is going through the floor, inflation has quadrupled and the country is clearly in recession."

He said "the objective is still to drive Iranians exports of oil to zero" despite waivers given to the biggest buyers of Iranian oil, including China, India and South Korea.&nbsp;

"It's with some satisfaction that I noticed today the price of oil is down. We have worked with the Saudis, the Emiratis, and other producers to make sure production is up so that historic buyers of Iranian oil are not disadvantaged," he added.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton said Thursday that more sanctions were possible on Iran just days after a new round of measures touted as the most punishing ever on Tehran entered into force.

US National Security Advisor John Bolton said Thursday that more sanctions were possible on Iran just days after a new round of measures touted as the most punishing ever on Tehran entered into force. Bolton said two rounds of unilateral US sanctions introduced by President Donald Trump in August and most recently on Monday had had a "quite significant" effect on the Iranian economy and the country's actions abroad. "I think that you're going to see even more sanctions coming into play over time and much tighter enforcement of the sanctions," Bolton told reporters in Paris. Asked what would be the target of the sanctions, he replied, "There are other things we can do in the terrorism and counterterrorism area." The International Monetary Fund forecasts that the sanctions will cause Iran's economy to contract 1.5 per cent this year and 3.6 per cent next year -- pain that Trump has boasted about. "We've seen indications that it has affected their belligerent activity in Iraq, Syria and Yemen. Not enough yet, but it's beginning to have that effect," Bolton said. "We've seen a continuation and exacerbation of political discontent inside Iran. That opposition continues to manifest itself. Economically the Iranian currency is going through the floor, inflation has quadrupled and the country is clearly in recession." He said "the objective is still to drive Iranians exports of oil to zero" despite waivers given to the biggest buyers of Iranian oil, including China, India and South Korea. "It's with some satisfaction that I noticed today the price of oil is down. We have worked with the Saudis, the Emiratis, and other producers to make sure production is up so that historic buyers of Iranian oil are not disadvantaged," he added.

US's Bolton says more sanctions likely on Iran

The United States on Monday re-imposed sanctions against Iran's oil exports to punish Tehran for its involvement in several Middle Eastern conflicts.

Washington had been pushing governments to cut imports of Iranian oil to zero. But, fearing a price spike, it granted Iran's biggest buyers - China, India, South Korea, Japan, Italy, Greece, Taiwan and Turkey - sanctions waivers.

That will allow the eight, which account for about 75 per cent of all Iran's oil exports, according to trade data, to import at least some oil for another 180 days.

Washington and the recipients of the waivers have not disclosed how much oil they are allowed to import, or under what conditions deals can still be made.

Analysts have estimated the overall volumes allowed under the waivers at between 700,000 and 1.7 million barrels per day (bpd) compared with a peak of around 3 million bpd in Iranian crude and condensate exports in mid-2018.

JP Morgan said "the lack or difficulty in acquiring shipping insurance will help in reducing exports quickly as they did during last international sanctions."

The US bank also said "payments for the oil by the exempt countries must go into escrow accounts in their local currency" and that this "means the money won't directly go to Iran and it can only be used to buy certain non-sanctioned goods from its crude export customers."

Once the waivers expire after 180 days, new waivers are expected to be issued, with a source in China saying his country would likely receive another six months of exemptions, though at a lower rate of around 220,000 bpd.

The United States on Monday re-imposed sanctions against Iran's oil exports to punish Tehran for its involvement in several Middle Eastern conflicts. Washington had been pushing governments to cut imports of Iranian oil to zero.

The United States on Monday re-imposed sanctions against Iran's oil exports to punish Tehran for its involvement in several Middle Eastern conflicts. Washington had been pushing governments to cut imports of Iranian oil to zero. But, fearing a price spike, it granted Iran's biggest buyers - China, India, South Korea, Japan, Italy, Greece, Taiwan and Turkey - sanctions waivers. That will allow the eight, which account for about 75 per cent of all Iran's oil exports, according to trade data, to import at least some oil for another 180 days. Washington and the recipients of the waivers have not disclosed how much oil they are allowed to import, or under what conditions deals can still be made. Analysts have estimated the overall volumes allowed under the waivers at between 700,000 and 1.7 million barrels per day (bpd) compared with a peak of around 3 million bpd in Iranian crude and condensate exports in mid-2018. JP Morgan said "the lack or difficulty in acquiring shipping insurance will help in reducing exports quickly as they did during last international sanctions." The US bank also said "payments for the oil by the exempt countries must go into escrow accounts in their local currency" and that this "means the money won't directly go to Iran and it can only be used to buy certain non-sanctioned goods from its crude export customers." Once the waivers expire after 180 days, new waivers are expected to be issued, with a source in China saying his country would likely receive another six months of exemptions, though at a lower rate of around 220,000 bpd.

The knowns and unknowns of US Iran oil sanction waivers

The United States said Tuesday it would exempt Iran's Indian-backed port of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chabahar-port-developed-by-india-to-be-inaugurated-in-iran-today-25724">Chabahar from new sanctions</a> on Tehran, recognizing the value of the project to Afghanistan.

Iran late last year inaugurated the port on the Indian Ocean which provides a key supply route to landlocked Afghanistan and allows India to bypass its historic enemy Pakistan.

The United States will <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-sanctions-on-iran-threaten-vital-afghanistan-trade-project-138341">exempt from sanctions</a> the development of Chabahar along with an attached railway project and Iranian petroleum shipments into Afghanistan, the State Department said.

President Donald Trump's "South Asia strategy underscores our ongoing support of Afghanistan's economic growth and development as well as our close partnership with India," a State Department spokesperson said.

"This exception relates to reconstruction assistance and economic development for Afghanistan. These activities are vital for the ongoing support of Afghanistan's growth and humanitarian relief," the spokesperson said.

The United States, which has been building closer relations with New Delhi since the late 1990s, earlier exempted India from sanctions that took effect on Monday.

The Trump administration has vowed to exert maximum pressure on Iran to end its support for regional proxies, exiting a denuclearization agreement that brought sanctions relief.

Trump's decision has been opposed by European powers as well as other nations including India, which has largely warm relations with Iran and accuses Pakistan of fomenting attacks on its soil.

India has poured US $2 billion into Afghanistan since the 2001 US-led overthrow of the extremist Taliban regime, which was also opposed by Iran.

India has seen Chabahar as a key way both to send supplies to Afghanistan and to step up trade with Central Asia as well as Africa.

Iran has plans to link the port by railway to Zahedan on the Pakistani border up to Mashhad in the northeast.

The United States said Tuesday it would exempt Iran's Indian-backed port of Chabahar from new sanctions on Tehran, recognizing the value of the project to Afghanistan.

The United States said Tuesday it would exempt Iran's Indian-backed port of Chabahar from new sanctions on Tehran, recognizing the value of the project to Afghanistan. Iran late last year inaugurated the port on the Indian Ocean which provides a key supply route to landlocked Afghanistan and allows India to bypass its historic enemy Pakistan. The United States will exempt from sanctions the development of Chabahar along with an attached railway project and Iranian petroleum shipments into Afghanistan, the State Department said. President Donald Trump's "South Asia strategy underscores our ongoing support of Afghanistan's economic growth and development as well as our close partnership with India," a State Department spokesperson said. "This exception relates to reconstruction assistance and economic development for Afghanistan. These activities are vital for the ongoing support of Afghanistan's growth and humanitarian relief," the spokesperson said. The United States, which has been building closer relations with New Delhi since the late 1990s, earlier exempted India from sanctions that took effect on Monday. The Trump administration has vowed to exert maximum pressure on Iran to end its support for regional proxies, exiting a denuclearization agreement that brought sanctions relief. Trump's decision has been opposed by European powers as well as other nations including India, which has largely warm relations with Iran and accuses Pakistan of fomenting attacks on its soil. India has poured US $2 billion into Afghanistan since the 2001 US-led overthrow of the extremist Taliban regime, which was also opposed by Iran. India has seen Chabahar as a key way both to send supplies to Afghanistan and to step up trade with Central Asia as well as Africa. Iran has plans to link the port by railway to Zahedan on the Pakistani border up to Mashhad in the northeast.

US exempts Indian-backed Chabahar port in Iran from sanctions

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Monday said he wants to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-india-turkey-among-eight-countries-allowed-temporary-waiver-in-iran-oil-sanctions-pompeo-175686">impose sanctions on Iran's oil gradually</a>, citing concerns about shocking energy markets and causing global price spikes.

"With the oil, it's very interesting. We have the toughest sanctions ever imposed, but on oil we want to go a little bit slower because I don't want to drive (up) the oil prices in the world," he told reporters before flying to a campaign event. "This has nothing to do with Iran... I could get the Iran oil down to zero immediately but it would cause a shock to the market. I don't want to lift oil prices."

The United States on Monday restored sanctions targeting Iran's oil, banking and transport sectors and threatened more action, part of a wider effort to curb Tehran's missile and nuclear programs and diminish the Islamic Republic's influence in the Middle East, notably its support for proxies in Syria, Yemen and Lebanon. Trump's moves target Iran's main source of revenue, its oil exports, as well as its financial sector.

"If you notice, oil prices are going down very substantially, despite the fact that already half of their capacity is gone," Trump said, adding "it will be a gradual" imposition of oil sanctions.

On Monday, international benchmark Brent crude oil futures were up nearly 0.8 percent to $73.41 a barrel and U.S. crude futures were up 0.4 percent at $63.41.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Monday said he wants to impose sanctions on Iran's oil gradually, citing concerns about shocking energy markets and causing global price spikes.

US President Donald Trump on Monday said he wants to impose sanctions on Iran's oil gradually, citing concerns about shocking energy markets and causing global price spikes. "With the oil, it's very interesting. We have the toughest sanctions ever imposed, but on oil we want to go a little bit slower because I don't want to drive (up) the oil prices in the world," he told reporters before flying to a campaign event. "This has nothing to do with Iran... I could get the Iran oil down to zero immediately but it would cause a shock to the market. I don't want to lift oil prices." The United States on Monday restored sanctions targeting Iran's oil, banking and transport sectors and threatened more action, part of a wider effort to curb Tehran's missile and nuclear programs and diminish the Islamic Republic's influence in the Middle East, notably its support for proxies in Syria, Yemen and Lebanon. Trump's moves target Iran's main source of revenue, its oil exports, as well as its financial sector. "If you notice, oil prices are going down very substantially, despite the fact that already half of their capacity is gone," Trump said, adding "it will be a gradual" imposition of oil sanctions. On Monday, international benchmark Brent crude oil futures were up nearly 0.8 percent to $73.41 a barrel and U.S. crude futures were up 0.4 percent at $63.41.

Want to go slow on sanctions on Iran's oil, keep prices down: Trump

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo announced today that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/we-oppose-unilateral-sanctions-and-long-arm-jurisdiction-against-iran-china-175654">China, India, Italy, Greece, Japan, South Korea</a>, Taiwan and Turkey would be allowed temporary waiver from Iran oil sanctions which came into effect from today.

Pompeo said the eight countries exempted have "already demonstrated reduction of Iranian crude over the past six months and, indeed, two of those eight have already completely ended imports of Iranian crude and will not resume as long as the sanctions remain in place."

"We continue negotiations to get all of the nations to zero," he added.

Pompeo informed that 50 Iranian banks and 400 subsidiaries would face sanctions as the US re-imposed economic sanctions on Iran's oil, banking and transportation sectors on Monday.&nbsp;

Pompeo added that more than 20 countries had already cut oil imports from Iran, reducing purchases by more than 1 million barrels per day.

"Treasury's imposition of unprecedented financial pressure on Iran should make clear to the Iranian regime that they will face mounting financial isolation and economic stagnation until they fundamentally change their destabilizing behaviour," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said.

The US sanctions will also target 200 persons and vessels in its shipping sector including Tehran's national airline, Iran Air, and more than 65 aircrafts.

Pompeo said the US would put "relentless" pressure on Iran as the sanctions covered most of Iran's key industries.

"Our objective is to starve the Iranian regime of the funds it uses to fund violent activity throughout the Middle East and around the world. Our ultimate goal is to encourage them to abandon their revolutionary course," Pompeo said.

In August, the US had imposed sanctions on Iran's metals and auto sectors.&nbsp;

"We hope a new agreement with Iran is possible, but until Iran makes changes in the 12 ways I listed in May, we will be relentless in exerting pressure on the regime," the US secretary of state added.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo announced today that China, India, Italy, Greece, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey would be allowed temporary waiver from Iran oil sanctions which came into effect from today.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo announced today that China, India, Italy, Greece, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey would be allowed temporary waiver from Iran oil sanctions which came into effect from today. Pompeo said the eight countries exempted have "already demonstrated reduction of Iranian crude over the past six months and, indeed, two of those eight have already completely ended imports of Iranian crude and will not resume as long as the sanctions remain in place." "We continue negotiations to get all of the nations to zero," he added. Pompeo informed that 50 Iranian banks and 400 subsidiaries would face sanctions as the US re-imposed economic sanctions on Iran's oil, banking and transportation sectors on Monday. Pompeo added that more than 20 countries had already cut oil imports from Iran, reducing purchases by more than 1 million barrels per day. "Treasury's imposition of unprecedented financial pressure on Iran should make clear to the Iranian regime that they will face mounting financial isolation and economic stagnation until they fundamentally change their destabilizing behaviour," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said. The US sanctions will also target 200 persons and vessels in its shipping sector including Tehran's national airline, Iran Air, and more than 65 aircrafts. Pompeo said the US would put "relentless" pressure on Iran as the sanctions covered most of Iran's key industries. "Our objective is to starve the Iranian regime of the funds it uses to fund violent activity throughout the Middle East and around the world. Our ultimate goal is to encourage them to abandon their revolutionary course," Pompeo said. In August, the US had imposed sanctions on Iran's metals and auto sectors. "We hope a new agreement with Iran is possible, but until Iran makes changes in the 12 ways I listed in May, we will be relentless in exerting pressure on the regime," the US secretary of state added.

China, India, Turkey among eight countries allowed temporary waiver in Iran oil sanctions: Pompeo

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-prince-probe-into-khashoggi-killing-will-exonerate-crown-prince-salman-175527">Saudi prince: Probe into Khashoggi killing will exonerate Crown Prince Salman</a>

Saudi Arabian billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, a top international businessman from the kingdom, said on Sunday that an official investigation into the death of journalist&nbsp;Jamal Khashoggi&nbsp;will exonerate the country's leader.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterm-elections-2018-trump-democrats-in-frenzied-final-push-ahead-of-us-elections-175521">'You gotta get to the polls on Tuesday, and you gotta vote,' Trump tells electorate before US midterm elections</a>

Donald Trump and his Democratic rivals made frenzied, final pushes to motivate their core voters Sunday ahead of&nbsp;contentious midterm elections&nbsp;seen as a referendum on the president's divisive first two years in office.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhiites-breathe-easy-as-air-quality-improves-authorities-warn-deterioration-from-monday-175523">Delhi pollution: Authorities say air quality will deteriorate severely from today</a>

Delhiites breathed easy Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government, even as authorities warned of severe deterioration from Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-iran-toughest-ever-take-force-monday-175530">US sanctions on Iran, 'toughest ever,' take force today</a>

The United States is reimposing punitive measures targeting the Iranian oil and financial sectors in what US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called "the toughest sanctions ever placed" against Iran.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/fuel-prices-further-slashed-petrol-selling-at-7856-per-litre-diesel-7316-175531">Fuel prices further slashed; petrol selling at 78.56 per litre, diesel 73.16</a>

Fuel prices in the country continued to decline on Monday with the price of petrol reaching Rs 78.56 per litre in Delhi and Rs 84.06 per litre in Mumbai.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Saudi prince: Probe into Khashoggi killing will exonerate Crown Prince Salman Saudi Arabian billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, a top international businessman from the kingdom, said on Sunday that an official investigation into the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi will exonerate the country's leader.

Saudi prince: Probe into Khashoggi killing will exonerate Crown Prince Salman Saudi Arabian billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, a top international businessman from the kingdom, said on Sunday that an official investigation into the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi will exonerate the country's leader. 'You gotta get to the polls on Tuesday, and you gotta vote,' Trump tells electorate before US midterm elections Donald Trump and his Democratic rivals made frenzied, final pushes to motivate their core voters Sunday ahead of contentious midterm elections seen as a referendum on the president's divisive first two years in office. Delhi pollution: Authorities say air quality will deteriorate severely from today Delhiites breathed easy Sunday after air quality significantly improved due to increased wind speed and control measures implemented by the government, even as authorities warned of severe deterioration from Monday. US sanctions on Iran, 'toughest ever,' take force today The United States is reimposing punitive measures targeting the Iranian oil and financial sectors in what US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called "the toughest sanctions ever placed" against Iran. Fuel prices further slashed; petrol selling at 78.56 per litre, diesel 73.16 Fuel prices in the country continued to decline on Monday with the price of petrol reaching Rs 78.56 per litre in Delhi and Rs 84.06 per litre in Mumbai.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The United States is reimposing punitive measures targeting the Iranian oil and financial sectors in what US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called "the toughest sanctions ever placed" against Iran.

Taking effect Monday, the measures are the most concrete result yet of US President Donald Trump's controversial decision in May to abandon the multi-nation nuclear deal with Tehran.

They will directly affect companies from third countries doing business with Iran. They could upset world oil markets, though the US has granted temporary waivers to eight jurisdictions to continue importing Iranian oil.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei denounced the measures on Saturday, saying Trump had "disgraced" US prestige and would be the ultimate loser in the long-running quarrel between the countries.

The US side was unmoved.&nbsp;

"Sanctions from the United States will be reimposed at midnight tonight," Pompeo told CBS's "Face the Nation." He said what he called "the terror regime" in Tehran must change its ways.

Oil markets on alert&nbsp;

World oil markets were on alert, nervously set to gauge the consequences of the sanctions.

"All eyes will be on Iranian exports, whether there will be some cheating around US sanctions, and on how quickly production will fall," said Riccardo Fabiani, an analyst for Energy Aspects.

Oil is Iran's main source of income. But the sword has two edges: Iran is also the OPEC cartel's third-largest producer.

The US stance has already inflicted serious pain on Iranians, with the country's currency, the rial, losing more than two thirds of its value since May.&nbsp;

Iranian oil exports have fallen by about a million barrels a day in that time, though India and China have continued to purchase it. Most Europeans, as well as Japan and South Korea, have stopped.

Asked if the US had firm commitments from India and China to stop all oil purchases from Iran within six months, Pompeo replied: "Watch what we do. Watch as we've already taken more crude oil off the market than any time in previous history."

Saudi Arabia is the only country with the capacity to make up for lost Iranian oil production.

'Utter disregard'&nbsp;

Hours before the fresh sanctions went ahead, thousands of people in Iran marked the anniversary of the 1979 hostage-taking at the US embassy by carrying placards mocking Trump and burning American flags and fake dollars.

Trump has long argued that the 2015 nuclear deal is badly flawed, in part because its provisions would expire in 10 to 15 years and partly because it does not adequately constrain Iran's destabilizing behavior in the region.

His decision was widely criticized abroad and by Democrats at home, who said that while imperfect, the pact had placed the Iranian nuclear program under the tightest scrutiny ever.

In parallel with the imposition of the crude oil sanctions, the US Treasury Department is placing more than 600 Iranian individuals and entities on a black list.

And Pompeo said that any Iranian banks involved in "sanctionable behavior will be sanctioned by the Department of Treasury, period, full stop."

The European Union has established a mechanism to permit its multinational companies to maintain presences in Iran, but all signs are that the US sanctions will be dissuasive. Both Airbus and Total have announced plans to leave Iran.

A first set of sanctions announced August 7 prompted European automakers Daimler and PSA to quit Iran.

To continue exporting crude oil, Iranian tankers in recent weeks have been turning off their transponders to avoid detection. But satellites have continued to track them.

The United States is reimposing punitive measures targeting the Iranian oil and financial sectors in what US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called "the toughest sanctions ever placed" against Iran.

The United States is reimposing punitive measures targeting the Iranian oil and financial sectors in what US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called "the toughest sanctions ever placed" against Iran. Taking effect Monday, the measures are the most concrete result yet of US President Donald Trump's controversial decision in May to abandon the multi-nation nuclear deal with Tehran. They will directly affect companies from third countries doing business with Iran. They could upset world oil markets, though the US has granted temporary waivers to eight jurisdictions to continue importing Iranian oil. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei denounced the measures on Saturday, saying Trump had "disgraced" US prestige and would be the ultimate loser in the long-running quarrel between the countries. The US side was unmoved. "Sanctions from the United States will be reimposed at midnight tonight," Pompeo told CBS's "Face the Nation." He said what he called "the terror regime" in Tehran must change its ways. Oil markets on alert World oil markets were on alert, nervously set to gauge the consequences of the sanctions. "All eyes will be on Iranian exports, whether there will be some cheating around US sanctions, and on how quickly production will fall," said Riccardo Fabiani, an analyst for Energy Aspects. Oil is Iran's main source of income. But the sword has two edges: Iran is also the OPEC cartel's third-largest producer. The US stance has already inflicted serious pain on Iranians, with the country's currency, the rial, losing more than two thirds of its value since May. Iranian oil exports have fallen by about a million barrels a day in that time, though India and China have continued to purchase it. Most Europeans, as well as Japan and South Korea, have stopped. Asked if the US had firm commitments from India and China to stop all oil purchases from Iran within six months, Pompeo replied: "Watch what we do. Watch as we've already taken more crude oil off the market than any time in previous history." Saudi Arabia is the only country with the capacity to make up for lost Iranian oil production. 'Utter disregard' Hours before the fresh sanctions went ahead, thousands of people in Iran marked the anniversary of the 1979 hostage-taking at the US embassy by carrying placards mocking Trump and burning American flags and fake dollars. Trump has long argued that the 2015 nuclear deal is badly flawed, in part because its provisions would expire in 10 to 15 years and partly because it does not adequately constrain Iran's destabilizing behavior in the region. His decision was widely criticized abroad and by Democrats at home, who said that while imperfect, the pact had placed the Iranian nuclear program under the tightest scrutiny ever. In parallel with the imposition of the crude oil sanctions, the US Treasury Department is placing more than 600 Iranian individuals and entities on a black list. And Pompeo said that any Iranian banks involved in "sanctionable behavior will be sanctioned by the Department of Treasury, period, full stop." The European Union has established a mechanism to permit its multinational companies to maintain presences in Iran, but all signs are that the US sanctions will be dissuasive. Both Airbus and Total have announced plans to leave Iran. A first set of sanctions announced August 7 prompted European automakers Daimler and PSA to quit Iran. To continue exporting crude oil, Iranian tankers in recent weeks have been turning off their transponders to avoid detection. But satellites have continued to track them.

US sanctions on Iran, 'toughest ever,' take force today

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said the Islamic republic "will proudly bypass sanctions" by the United States that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-on-iran-toughest-ever-take-force-monday-175530">took effect on Monday</a> targeting the country's oil and financial sectors.

"I announce that we will proudly bypass your illegal, unjust sanctions because it's against international regulations," Rouhani said in a televised speech.

"We are in a situation of economic war, confronting a bullying power. I don't think that in the history of America, someone has entered the White House who is so against law and international conventions," he added.

The renewed US sanctions aim to significantly curb Iran's oil exports and cut it off from international finance, and follow US President Donald Trump's controversial decision in May to abandon the multi-nation nuclear deal with Tehran.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said the Islamic republic "will proudly bypass sanctions" by the United States that took effect on Monday targeting the country's oil and financial sectors.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said the Islamic republic "will proudly bypass sanctions" by the United States that took effect on Monday targeting the country's oil and financial sectors. "I announce that we will proudly bypass your illegal, unjust sanctions because it's against international regulations," Rouhani said in a televised speech. "We are in a situation of economic war, confronting a bullying power. I don't think that in the history of America, someone has entered the White House who is so against law and international conventions," he added. The renewed US sanctions aim to significantly curb Iran's oil exports and cut it off from international finance, and follow US President Donald Trump's controversial decision in May to abandon the multi-nation nuclear deal with Tehran.

As US sanctions kick in, Iran says it will 'proudly bypass' them

US sanctions against importers of Iranian oil threaten the crude oil market's precarious balance and risk surging prices, all under Saudi Arabia's watchful gaze, according to experts.

"In the next weeks all eyes will be on Iranian exports, whether there will be some cheating around US sanctions, and on how quickly production will fall," said Riccardo Fabiani, an analyst for Energy Aspects.

The US will from Monday target buyers of Iranian oil in order to deprive Tehran of its main source of income.&nbsp;

Going after Iran's oil money will hit Tehran where it hurts, but it also means hitting a major pillar of the global oil market -- Iran is the OPEC cartel's third-largest producer -- with major consequences for world supply.

Iran exported the equivalent of 2.5 million barrels a day in April, before&nbsp;the announcement of sanctions turned buyers away.&nbsp;

"Even if the United States grants exemptions, Washington will demand that the volume imported from Iran be significantly reduced," said UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo, who expects prices to rise.&nbsp;

Exemptions&nbsp;

However, oil prices have fallen by nearly $15 in less than a month, after peaking in early October at their highest level in two and a half years, with a barrel of Brent at over $85.&nbsp;

Part of the explanation lies in the ambiguous position of the US, which initially insisted that the sanctions were designed to reduce Iranian exports to zero barrels, but has since has softened its position.&nbsp;

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday announced exemptions for eight countries, without naming them.&nbsp;

Turkey indicated that it was one of them and analysts believe that India, one of the world's largest importers, is also on the list, which will be published on Monday.

"India said to the US that they can't stop before March, they are facing a major currency crisis," explained Joel Hancock, analyst at Natixis.&nbsp;

Consumer confidence in the US itself could also suffer if rising oil prices translate into higher prices at the pump.

"If prices start to rise again or another major producer has difficulties, it could put pressure on the US and lead to new exemptions," said Fabiani.

Saudi uncertainty&nbsp;

The other major oil producing countries are expected to ramp up production to try and compensate for Iran's anticipated decline in output.&nbsp;

But in doing so, they run the risk of hampering their ability to react to any future crises.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia, the world's largest exporter, has claimed that it can respond to the Iranian shortfall, but some market players are wondering whether the kingdom is exhausting its capacities.&nbsp;

"Saudi Arabia can produce 12 million barrels a day, but only if it invests," said Hancock, noting that the country currently produces just under 11 million barrels a day.&nbsp;

He believes that Riyadh can currently only rely on 300,000 barrels per day of spare capacity, the extraction of which can be launched in fewer than 30 days.&nbsp;

"The mantra right now is to go to Saudi Arabia but its exports have remained flat at around 10 or 10.2 million barrels a day," said Samir Madani, an analyst at Tanker Trackers, which specialises in satellite tanker tracking.&nbsp;

"The big increase right now is Iraq at 4.2 million, which I've never seen before," he added.

The US, which is in the process of becoming the world's leading producer thanks to its shale oil operations, could meet part of the demand, but lacks export capacity, said the analyst.

US sanctions against importers of Iranian oil threaten the crude oil market's precarious balance and risk surging prices, all under Saudi Arabia's watchful gaze, according to experts.

US sanctions against importers of Iranian oil threaten the crude oil market's precarious balance and risk surging prices, all under Saudi Arabia's watchful gaze, according to experts. "In the next weeks all eyes will be on Iranian exports, whether there will be some cheating around US sanctions, and on how quickly production will fall," said Riccardo Fabiani, an analyst for Energy Aspects. The US will from Monday target buyers of Iranian oil in order to deprive Tehran of its main source of income. Going after Iran's oil money will hit Tehran where it hurts, but it also means hitting a major pillar of the global oil market -- Iran is the OPEC cartel's third-largest producer -- with major consequences for world supply. Iran exported the equivalent of 2.5 million barrels a day in April, before the announcement of sanctions turned buyers away. "Even if the United States grants exemptions, Washington will demand that the volume imported from Iran be significantly reduced," said UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo, who expects prices to rise. Exemptions However, oil prices have fallen by nearly $15 in less than a month, after peaking in early October at their highest level in two and a half years, with a barrel of Brent at over $85. Part of the explanation lies in the ambiguous position of the US, which initially insisted that the sanctions were designed to reduce Iranian exports to zero barrels, but has since has softened its position. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Friday announced exemptions for eight countries, without naming them. Turkey indicated that it was one of them and analysts believe that India, one of the world's largest importers, is also on the list, which will be published on Monday. "India said to the US that they can't stop before March, they are facing a major currency crisis," explained Joel Hancock, analyst at Natixis. Consumer confidence in the US itself could also suffer if rising oil prices translate into higher prices at the pump. "If prices start to rise again or another major producer has difficulties, it could put pressure on the US and lead to new exemptions," said Fabiani. Saudi uncertainty The other major oil producing countries are expected to ramp up production to try and compensate for Iran's anticipated decline in output. But in doing so, they run the risk of hampering their ability to react to any future crises. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest exporter, has claimed that it can respond to the Iranian shortfall, but some market players are wondering whether the kingdom is exhausting its capacities. "Saudi Arabia can produce 12 million barrels a day, but only if it invests," said Hancock, noting that the country currently produces just under 11 million barrels a day. He believes that Riyadh can currently only rely on 300,000 barrels per day of spare capacity, the extraction of which can be launched in fewer than 30 days. "The mantra right now is to go to Saudi Arabia but its exports have remained flat at around 10 or 10.2 million barrels a day," said Samir Madani, an analyst at Tanker Trackers, which specialises in satellite tanker tracking. "The big increase right now is Iraq at 4.2 million, which I've never seen before," he added. The US, which is in the process of becoming the world's leading producer thanks to its shale oil operations, could meet part of the demand, but lacks export capacity, said the analyst.

Oil market on alert as Iran sanctions hit

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-opposes-every-decision-made-by-trump-irans-khameini-175329">Before US sanctions, Iran's </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-opposes-every-decision-made-by-trump-irans-khameini-175329">Khameini</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-opposes-every-decision-made-by-trump-irans-khameini-175329"> says 'world opposes every decision made by Trump'</a>

Iran's top leader said on Saturday&nbsp;US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's policies&nbsp;face opposition across the world as Washington prepared to reimpose sanctions on Iran's vital oil-exporting and financial sectors, state television reported.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibis-husband-pleads-for-asylum-in-uk-us-175333">Asia Bibi's husband says they are in danger in Pakistan, asks for asylum in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibis-husband-pleads-for-asylum-in-uk-us-175333">UK</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibis-husband-pleads-for-asylum-in-uk-us-175333">, US or Canada</a>

Asia Bibi's husband&nbsp;Ashiq Masih&nbsp;pleaded Saturday for asylum in the UK, US or Canada, news reports Sunday said. Masih said they were in danger in Pakistan and that threats had been made to Asia's life. Asia was this week acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court of insulting the Prophet Muhammad.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lying-machines-who-fire-off-lies-like-ak-47-modi-on-some-opposition-leaders-175332">Lying machines who fire off lies like AK-47: Modi on 'some opposition leaders'</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that while the opposition parties were joining hands to protect their ruling dynasties, the BJP was working to change the country's destiny. He dubbed some opposition leaders as "lying machines who fire off lies like AK-47".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-verdict-protests-tlp-chief-senior-leader-booked-for-rioting-175326">Asia Bibi verdict protests: TLP chief, senior leader booked for rioting</a>

Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Khadim Rizvi and senior party leader Afzal Qadri were among the 500 people booked on Saturday for rioting and disrupting normal life in various parts of Lahore.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/14-killed-34-injured-in-vehicle-pileup-in-northwest-china-175344">14 killed, 34 injured in vehicle pileup in northwest China</a>

Authorities in China say at least 14 people have been killed and 27 injured in a highway pile-up. The accident Saturday night happened after a heavy truck lost control and crashed into a line of vehicles waiting at a toll station in the northwestern province of Gansu.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Before US sanctions, Iran's Khameini says 'world opposes every decision made by Trump' Iran's top leader said on Saturday US President Donald Trump's policies face opposition across the world as Washington prepared to reimpose sanctions on Iran's vital oil-exporting and financial sectors, state television reported.

Before US sanctions, Iran's Khameini says 'world opposes every decision made by Trump' Iran's top leader said on Saturday US President Donald Trump's policies face opposition across the world as Washington prepared to reimpose sanctions on Iran's vital oil-exporting and financial sectors, state television reported. Asia Bibi's husband says they are in danger in Pakistan, asks for asylum in UK, US or Canada Asia Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih pleaded Saturday for asylum in the UK, US or Canada, news reports Sunday said. Masih said they were in danger in Pakistan and that threats had been made to Asia's life. Asia was this week acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court of insulting the Prophet Muhammad. Lying machines who fire off lies like AK-47: Modi on 'some opposition leaders' Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that while the opposition parties were joining hands to protect their ruling dynasties, the BJP was working to change the country's destiny. He dubbed some opposition leaders as "lying machines who fire off lies like AK-47". Asia Bibi verdict protests: TLP chief, senior leader booked for rioting Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) chief Khadim Rizvi and senior party leader Afzal Qadri were among the 500 people booked on Saturday for rioting and disrupting normal life in various parts of Lahore. 14 killed, 34 injured in vehicle pileup in northwest China Authorities in China say at least 14 people have been killed and 27 injured in a highway pile-up. The accident Saturday night happened after a heavy truck lost control and crashed into a line of vehicles waiting at a toll station in the northwestern province of Gansu.

America's power and hegemony in the world is declining: Ayatollah Khameni

Iran's annual rally to mark the storming of the US embassy and hostage-taking of 1979 had particular significance on Sunday on the eve of renewed sanctions by Washington.

Thousands joined rallies in Tehran and other cities, carrying placards that mocked President Donald Trump, wiping their feet on fake dollar bills, and engaging in the usual ritual of burning the US flag.

This year's 39th anniversary fell just hours before Washington was set to reimpose sanctions -- including an oil embargo -- following its withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal earlier this year.

Mohammad Ali Jafari, commander of the Revolutionary Guards, addressed the crowd from the grounds of the former embassy, now known as the "den of spies".

He said "economic warfare" was a final bid by Washington to overthrow the Islamic republic after decades of failed attempts.

"With God's help and the resistance and perseverance of the pious and revolutionary people of Islamic Iran, this last weapon of the enemy -- the economic war -- which is accompanied by America's widespread media operation against the nation of Iran, will be defeated," Jafari said.

"Never threaten Iran," he warned US President Donald Trump, describing him as America's "strange president".&nbsp;

The seizure of the US embassy by radical students was a key stage in the Islamic revolution of 1979, leading to a 444-day hostage crisis that permanently damaged relations between Washington and Tehran.

The students believed the US would launch a counter-coup to return deposed Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi to power -- similar to the CIA-backed coup that overthrew Iran's elected government in 1953 -- unaware that the king was already critically ill with cancer.

Several of the students later regretted the incident, but for the establishment, it has become a powerful symbol of Iran's refusal to be dominated by outside powers, the key driving force of the revolution.

Without the attack on the embassy, "the revolution would not have reached its 40th year," said Jafari.&nbsp;

Iran's annual rally to mark the storming of the US embassy and hostage-taking of 1979 had particular significance on Sunday on the eve of renewed sanctions by Washington.

Iran's annual rally to mark the storming of the US embassy and hostage-taking of 1979 had particular significance on Sunday on the eve of renewed sanctions by Washington. Thousands joined rallies in Tehran and other cities, carrying placards that mocked President Donald Trump, wiping their feet on fake dollar bills, and engaging in the usual ritual of burning the US flag. This year's 39th anniversary fell just hours before Washington was set to reimpose sanctions -- including an oil embargo -- following its withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal earlier this year. Mohammad Ali Jafari, commander of the Revolutionary Guards, addressed the crowd from the grounds of the former embassy, now known as the "den of spies". He said "economic warfare" was a final bid by Washington to overthrow the Islamic republic after decades of failed attempts. "With God's help and the resistance and perseverance of the pious and revolutionary people of Islamic Iran, this last weapon of the enemy -- the economic war -- which is accompanied by America's widespread media operation against the nation of Iran, will be defeated," Jafari said. "Never threaten Iran," he warned US President Donald Trump, describing him as America's "strange president". The seizure of the US embassy by radical students was a key stage in the Islamic revolution of 1979, leading to a 444-day hostage crisis that permanently damaged relations between Washington and Tehran. The students believed the US would launch a counter-coup to return deposed Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi to power -- similar to the CIA-backed coup that overthrew Iran's elected government in 1953 -- unaware that the king was already critically ill with cancer. Several of the students later regretted the incident, but for the establishment, it has become a powerful symbol of Iran's refusal to be dominated by outside powers, the key driving force of the revolution. Without the attack on the embassy, "the revolution would not have reached its 40th year," said Jafari.

Iran marks US embassy siege on eve of sanctions

Iran has started mass-producing its locally designed Kowsar fighter plane, state television reported on Saturday.

"Soon the needed number of this plane will be produced and put at the service of the Air Force," Defence Minister Amir Hatami said at a ceremony launching the plane's production, which was shown on television.

Meanwhile, the United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week.

The aim is to cripple the Iranian economy to pressure Tehran to halt its nuclear activities and what the US says is broad support for “terrorism” in the region, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.

The reimposition of sanctions “is aimed at depriving the regime of the revenues it uses to spread death and destruction around the world,” Pompeo explained.

“Our ultimate aim is to compel Iran to permanently abandon its well-documented outlaw activities and behave as a normal country.”

Iran has started mass-producing its locally designed Kowsar fighter plane, state television reported on Saturday. "Soon the needed number of this plane will be produced and put at the service of the Air Force," Defence Minister Amir Hatami said at a ceremony launching the plane's production, which was shown on television.

Iran has started mass-producing its locally designed Kowsar fighter plane, state television reported on Saturday. "Soon the needed number of this plane will be produced and put at the service of the Air Force," Defence Minister Amir Hatami said at a ceremony launching the plane's production, which was shown on television. Meanwhile, the United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week. The aim is to cripple the Iranian economy to pressure Tehran to halt its nuclear activities and what the US says is broad support for “terrorism” in the region, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said. The reimposition of sanctions “is aimed at depriving the regime of the revenues it uses to spread death and destruction around the world,” Pompeo explained. “Our ultimate aim is to compel Iran to permanently abandon its well-documented outlaw activities and behave as a normal country.”

Iran starts mass-producing local fighter jet: State TV

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2-dead-including-shooter-at-florida-yoga-studio-police-175197">3 dead, including </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2-dead-including-shooter-at-florida-yoga-studio-police-175197">shooter</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2-dead-including-shooter-at-florida-yoga-studio-police-175197">, at Florida yoga studio: Police</a>

A gunman has killed two people and wounded five others at a yoga studio in Florida's capital before killing himself, officials said.Tallahassee Police Chief Michael DeLeo told reporters Friday night that the man shot six people and pistol-whipped another after walking into the studio, which is part of a small Tallahassee shopping center.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-details-new-sanctions-in-maximum-pressure-hit-on-iran-economy-175195">'Sanctions are Coming', tweets Trump as </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-details-new-sanctions-in-maximum-pressure-hit-on-iran-economy-175195">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-details-new-sanctions-in-maximum-pressure-hit-on-iran-economy-175195"> reimposes all sanctions on Iran</a>

The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-turkey-president-erdogan-accuses-highest-levels-of-saudi-government-175194">Turkey President Erdogan says </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-turkey-president-erdogan-accuses-highest-levels-of-saudi-government-175194">murder</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-turkey-president-erdogan-accuses-highest-levels-of-saudi-government-175194"> of Khashoggi came from 'highest levels' of Saudi govt</a>

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the order to&nbsp;murder Jamal Khashoggi&nbsp;came from "the highest levels" of the Saudi government Friday as he promised no let-up in the hunt for his killers.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-risks-trade-concessions-if-any-back-sliding-on-rights-eu-ambassador-175164">Sri Lanka risks trade concessions if any back-sliding on rights: EU ambassador</a>

The European Union will consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights, the EU ambassador said, amid worries stoked by the president's replacing of the elected premier by a wartime nationalist.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/alec-baldwin-charged-in-new-york-after-punching-man-175198">Alec Baldwin charged in New York after 'punching' man</a>

Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was arrested and charged with assault on Friday after allegedly punching a 49-year-old man in the face during a New York parking dispute, police said.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

3 dead, including shooter, at Florida yoga studio: Police A gunman has killed two people and wounded five others at a yoga studio in Florida's capital before killing himself, officials said.

3 dead, including shooter, at Florida yoga studio: Police A gunman has killed two people and wounded five others at a yoga studio in Florida's capital before killing himself, officials said.Tallahassee Police Chief Michael DeLeo told reporters Friday night that the man shot six people and pistol-whipped another after walking into the studio, which is part of a small Tallahassee shopping center. 'Sanctions are Coming', tweets Trump as US reimposes all sanctions on Iran The United States will add 700 individuals and entities to its Iran blacklist and pressure the global SWIFT banking network to cut off Tehran when expanded sanctions are put in place next week. Turkey President Erdogan says murder of Khashoggi came from 'highest levels' of Saudi govt Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the order to murder Jamal Khashoggi came from "the highest levels" of the Saudi government Friday as he promised no let-up in the hunt for his killers. Sri Lanka risks trade concessions if any back-sliding on rights: EU ambassador The European Union will consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights, the EU ambassador said, amid worries stoked by the president's replacing of the elected premier by a wartime nationalist. Alec Baldwin charged in New York after 'punching' man Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin was arrested and charged with assault on Friday after allegedly punching a 49-year-old man in the face during a New York parking dispute, police said.

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

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

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

Donald Trump says he is open to new deal with Iran

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

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

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

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

The US&nbsp;government <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-in-touch-with-eu-over-alternative-payment-for-iran-oil-imports-166736">has agreed to let eight countries</a>, including close allies South Korea and Japan, as well as India, keep buying Iranian oil after it reimposes sanctions on Tehran next week, Bloomberg cited a US&nbsp;official as saying.&nbsp;

Iran's biggest oil customers - all in Asia - <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-india-in-very-detailed-talks-about-halting-iran-oil-imports-us-163951?amp">have been seeking sanctions waivers to allow</a> them to continue buying some of its oil and have argued that a total ban would spur a further rally in the price of crude.

Bloomberg reported on Friday that South Korea and Japan had received waivers along with India, which relies heavily on Iranian supplies.&nbsp;

A list of all countries getting waivers was expected to be released officially on Monday, Bloomberg said.&nbsp;

There was no immediate comment from the White House.

The United States is preparing to impose new sanctions on Iran's oil industry after Washington withdrew from a nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers earlier this year.

But the move has backfired on US&nbsp;President Donald Trump as it led to a steep rally in oil prices, including the cost of gasoline, ahead of US&nbsp;mid-term elections.

It was unclear how much crude those eight countries would be allowed to buy from Iran, whose oil exports have plummeted from an average of more than 2.5 million barrels per day to around 1.5 million bpd in recent weeks.

Goldman Sachs said it expects Iran's crude exports to fall to 1.15 million bpd by the end of the year. During a previous round of sanctions at the start of the decade, Iranian oil exports declined at times to below 1 million bpd.

Iran said on Friday the report on waivers showed that the market needed the country's crude.

"The waivers granted to these eight countries show that the market needs Iran's oil and it cannot be pulled out of the market ... I don't know whether these waivers are permanent or temporary," state TV quoted Iran's Deputy Oil Minister Ali Kardor as saying.&nbsp;

Oil prices rallied this year to a four-year high above $85 per barrel on fears Washington may want to cut Iranian oil exports to zero.

But the rally petered out in recent weeks amid market fears about a slowing global economy and as expectations grew that Iran would be allowed still to export significant amounts.

On Friday, Brent futures traded flat at around $73, having fallen 12 per cent since the beginning of October.&nbsp;

A Chinese official told Reuters that discussions with the US&nbsp;government about waivers were ongoing and that a result was expected over the next couple of days.&nbsp;

"We think Trump will agree to China importing some volumes, similar to the treatment that India and South Korea receive," Clayton Allen of Height Securities said in a note on Friday.&nbsp;

South Korea's foreign ministry declined to comment, and Japanese officials were not immediately available for comment.

Another country that has been seeking a sanctions waiver is Turkey. Turkey's energy ministry said on Friday it had not received written notification of any exemption.

Analysts said, however, that waivers would likely be only temporary.&nbsp;

"The US&nbsp;may use waivers to slow-walk implementation, but these will not apply indefinitely," Allen said.

Among other countries closely connected to Iran's energy system is Iraq, which imports gas via a pipeline. The United Arab Emirates imports large amounts of Iranian fuel oil to power ships and Egypt imports oil from Iran for the Sumed pipeline.

Russia has been planning to import oil from Tehran but no major projects have materialised.

The US government has agreed to let eight countries, including close allies South Korea and Japan, as well as India, keep buying Iranian oil after it reimposes sanctions on Tehran next week, Bloomberg cited a US official as saying.

The US government has agreed to let eight countries, including close allies South Korea and Japan, as well as India, keep buying Iranian oil after it reimposes sanctions on Tehran next week, Bloomberg cited a US official as saying. Iran's biggest oil customers - all in Asia - have been seeking sanctions waivers to allow them to continue buying some of its oil and have argued that a total ban would spur a further rally in the price of crude. Bloomberg reported on Friday that South Korea and Japan had received waivers along with India, which relies heavily on Iranian supplies. A list of all countries getting waivers was expected to be released officially on Monday, Bloomberg said. There was no immediate comment from the White House. The United States is preparing to impose new sanctions on Iran's oil industry after Washington withdrew from a nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers earlier this year. But the move has backfired on US President Donald Trump as it led to a steep rally in oil prices, including the cost of gasoline, ahead of US mid-term elections. It was unclear how much crude those eight countries would be allowed to buy from Iran, whose oil exports have plummeted from an average of more than 2.5 million barrels per day to around 1.5 million bpd in recent weeks. Goldman Sachs said it expects Iran's crude exports to fall to 1.15 million bpd by the end of the year. During a previous round of sanctions at the start of the decade, Iranian oil exports declined at times to below 1 million bpd. Iran said on Friday the report on waivers showed that the market needed the country's crude. "The waivers granted to these eight countries show that the market needs Iran's oil and it cannot be pulled out of the market ... I don't know whether these waivers are permanent or temporary," state TV quoted Iran's Deputy Oil Minister Ali Kardor as saying. Oil prices rallied this year to a four-year high above $85 per barrel on fears Washington may want to cut Iranian oil exports to zero. But the rally petered out in recent weeks amid market fears about a slowing global economy and as expectations grew that Iran would be allowed still to export significant amounts. On Friday, Brent futures traded flat at around $73, having fallen 12 per cent since the beginning of October. A Chinese official told Reuters that discussions with the US government about waivers were ongoing and that a result was expected over the next couple of days. "We think Trump will agree to China importing some volumes, similar to the treatment that India and South Korea receive," Clayton Allen of Height Securities said in a note on Friday. South Korea's foreign ministry declined to comment, and Japanese officials were not immediately available for comment. Another country that has been seeking a sanctions waiver is Turkey. Turkey's energy ministry said on Friday it had not received written notification of any exemption. Analysts said, however, that waivers would likely be only temporary. "The US may use waivers to slow-walk implementation, but these will not apply indefinitely," Allen said. Among other countries closely connected to Iran's energy system is Iraq, which imports gas via a pipeline. The United Arab Emirates imports large amounts of Iranian fuel oil to power ships and Egypt imports oil from Iran for the Sumed pipeline. Russia has been planning to import oil from Tehran but no major projects have materialised.

US to give Iran oil sanctions waiver to eight countries, including India, South Korea & Japan: Report

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday said his country had no fear of the new US sanction&nbsp;which was due to take effect in the coming days.

"November 4 sees a new injustice from the Americans, the people should know with certainty that the government has no fear of American threats", Rohani said ahead of the imposition of new US sanctions.

Rouhani also warned that the country will have to face hard times when new US sanctions take effect on Sunday assuring that the government would do its best to alleviate them from the crisis.

"In the past few months our people have faced difficult times and it's possible that the next few months will be difficult. But the government will use all its power to reduce these problems", he said.

The United States plans to impose sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector on November 4.

The US has already reimposed a number of sanctions on Iran in May after pulling out of a multilateral 2015 deal intended to curb the Islamic Republic's nuclear program.

Following the imposition of the sanctions, the&nbsp;Iranian rial had hit record lows against the US dollar in recent months. The cost of living had also soared in recent months.

The sanctions had also resulted in demonstrations against profiteering and corruption in which protesters have chanted anti-government slogans.

To counter the consequences of the sanctions,&nbsp;Iran began selling crude oil to private companies for export on Sunday.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday said his country had no fear of the new US sanction which was due to take effect in the coming days. "November 4 sees a new injustice from the Americans, the people should know with certainty that the government has no fear of American threats", Rohani said ahead of the imposition of new US sanctions.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday said his country had no fear of the new US sanction which was due to take effect in the coming days. "November 4 sees a new injustice from the Americans, the people should know with certainty that the government has no fear of American threats", Rohani said ahead of the imposition of new US sanctions. Rouhani also warned that the country will have to face hard times when new US sanctions take effect on Sunday assuring that the government would do its best to alleviate them from the crisis. "In the past few months our people have faced difficult times and it's possible that the next few months will be difficult. But the government will use all its power to reduce these problems", he said. The United States plans to impose sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector on November 4. The US has already reimposed a number of sanctions on Iran in May after pulling out of a multilateral 2015 deal intended to curb the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Following the imposition of the sanctions, the Iranian rial had hit record lows against the US dollar in recent months. The cost of living had also soared in recent months. The sanctions had also resulted in demonstrations against profiteering and corruption in which protesters have chanted anti-government slogans. To counter the consequences of the sanctions, Iran began selling crude oil to private companies for export on Sunday. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran has no fear over new US sanctions: President Hassan Rouhani

Watch: WION Dispatch, 1st November, 2018

WION Dispatch: India responds on US sanctions to be slapped on Iran

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

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

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

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

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called for an end to the fighting in Yemen.&nbsp;

Pompeo said missile strikes by the Iran-allied Houthi rebels against Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates should stop, and that the Saudi-led coalition must stop air strikes in all populated areas.&nbsp;

Pompeo added that UN-led negotiations to bring the civil war to an end should begin next month.&nbsp;

Pompeo's call was earlier voiced by US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis even as the Saudi-led military coalition sent more than 10,000 new troops toward a vital rebel-held port city ahead of a new assault.

Mattis said the US had been watching the conflict "for long enough", adding that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which are in a US-backed coalition fighting Shiite Huthi rebels, are ready for talks.

"We have got to move toward a peace effort here, and we can't say we are going to do it some time in the future," Mattis said at the US Institute of Peace in Washington.&nbsp;

"We need to be doing this in the next 30 days."

He said the US is calling for all warring parties to meet with United Nations special envoy Martin Griffiths in Sweden in November and "come to a solution."

US-Saudi ties have cooled in recent weeks after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent critic of the conservative kingdom, that has also tarnished the image of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia and its allies intervened in the conflict between embattled Yemeni President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, whose government is recognised by the United Nations, and the Huthis in 2015.

Nearly 10,000 people have since been killed and the country now stands at the brink of famine, with more than 22 million Yemenis — three-quarters of the population — in need of humanitarian assistance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called for an end to the fighting in Yemen. Pompeo said missile strikes by the Iran-allied Houthi rebels against Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates should stop, and that the Saudi-led coalition must stop air strikes in all populated areas.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called for an end to the fighting in Yemen. Pompeo said missile strikes by the Iran-allied Houthi rebels against Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates should stop, and that the Saudi-led coalition must stop air strikes in all populated areas. Pompeo added that UN-led negotiations to bring the civil war to an end should begin next month. Pompeo's call was earlier voiced by US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis even as the Saudi-led military coalition sent more than 10,000 new troops toward a vital rebel-held port city ahead of a new assault. Mattis said the US had been watching the conflict "for long enough", adding that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which are in a US-backed coalition fighting Shiite Huthi rebels, are ready for talks. "We have got to move toward a peace effort here, and we can't say we are going to do it some time in the future," Mattis said at the US Institute of Peace in Washington. "We need to be doing this in the next 30 days." He said the US is calling for all warring parties to meet with United Nations special envoy Martin Griffiths in Sweden in November and "come to a solution." US-Saudi ties have cooled in recent weeks after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent critic of the conservative kingdom, that has also tarnished the image of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Saudi Arabia and its allies intervened in the conflict between embattled Yemeni President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, whose government is recognised by the United Nations, and the Huthis in 2015. Nearly 10,000 people have since been killed and the country now stands at the brink of famine, with more than 22 million Yemenis — three-quarters of the population — in need of humanitarian assistance. (With inputs from agencies)

After Khashoggi killing, US calls for end to fighting in Yemen

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - October 31st, 2018

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

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

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

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

Iran's parliament approved a government economic reshuffle on Saturday, days before new US&nbsp;sanctions on Tehran's oil exports take effect, after President Hassan Rouhani said Washington was isolated among its allies in its confrontation with Iran.

"It does not happen often that the US&nbsp;makes a decision and its traditional allies abandon it," Rouhani told parliament before the vote to approve the new appointments.

Academic Farhad Dejpasand, widely seen as a technocrat, received a vote of confidence by a wide margin as the new minister of economics and finance.

The reshuffle, approved in a parliamentary session carried live on state TV, also brought in new industry, labour and roads ministers.

Washington reintroduced sanctions against Iran’s currency trade, metals and auto sectors in August after it pulled out from a multinational 2015 deal that lifted sanctions in return for limits on Iran’s nuclear programme.

European countries have criticised the United States for withdrawing from the accord and have been putting together a package of economic measures to help offset the impact of US&nbsp;pressures on Tehran's economy.

Diplomats told Reuters that a new European Union mechanism to facilitate payments for Iranian exports should be legally in place by Nov. 4, when the next phase of US&nbsp;sanctions targeting Iran's vital oil exports take effect, although it will not be operational until early next year.

"Our main enemy, America, faces us with a drawn sword and we have to fight it and we have to unite. Regardless of factions ... we are all part of the Iranian nation," Rouhani said earlier, urging MPs to vote for his proposed ministers.

"Part of our economic problems has to do with the (high) rate of exchange of hard currencies, but our foreign exchange reserves are better than in any of the past five years," he said, without giving figures.

The cabinet changes come as the government faces intense pressure over the economic instability mostly caused by the US&nbsp;sanctions.

The economy has markedly deteriorated in the past year, suffering rising inflation and unemployment, a 70 per cent fall in the value of the rial currency so far this year and state corruption.

"A year ago no one would have believed ... that Europe would stand with Iran and against America," Rouhani said.

"Russia, China, India, the European Union, and some African and Latin American countries are our friends. We have to work with them and attract investments," he added.

Mohammad Shariatmadari, the outgoing industries minister, was approved to head the Labour, Cooperatives and Social Affairs Ministry.

Parliament also approved the appointment of Mohammad Eslami to head the Urban Development and Roads Ministry, while Reza Rahmani, who previously headed a parliamentary commission on mining and industry, became the new industry, mines and trade minister.

Iran's parliament approved a government economic reshuffle on Saturday, days before new US sanctions on Tehran's oil exports take effect, after President Hassan Rouhani said Washington was isolated among its allies in its confrontation with Iran.

Iran's parliament approved a government economic reshuffle on Saturday, days before new US sanctions on Tehran's oil exports take effect, after President Hassan Rouhani said Washington was isolated among its allies in its confrontation with Iran. "It does not happen often that the US makes a decision and its traditional allies abandon it," Rouhani told parliament before the vote to approve the new appointments. Academic Farhad Dejpasand, widely seen as a technocrat, received a vote of confidence by a wide margin as the new minister of economics and finance. The reshuffle, approved in a parliamentary session carried live on state TV, also brought in new industry, labour and roads ministers. Washington reintroduced sanctions against Iran’s currency trade, metals and auto sectors in August after it pulled out from a multinational 2015 deal that lifted sanctions in return for limits on Iran’s nuclear programme. European countries have criticised the United States for withdrawing from the accord and have been putting together a package of economic measures to help offset the impact of US pressures on Tehran's economy. Diplomats told Reuters that a new European Union mechanism to facilitate payments for Iranian exports should be legally in place by Nov. 4, when the next phase of US sanctions targeting Iran's vital oil exports take effect, although it will not be operational until early next year. "Our main enemy, America, faces us with a drawn sword and we have to fight it and we have to unite. Regardless of factions ... we are all part of the Iranian nation," Rouhani said earlier, urging MPs to vote for his proposed ministers. "Part of our economic problems has to do with the (high) rate of exchange of hard currencies, but our foreign exchange reserves are better than in any of the past five years," he said, without giving figures. The cabinet changes come as the government faces intense pressure over the economic instability mostly caused by the US sanctions. The economy has markedly deteriorated in the past year, suffering rising inflation and unemployment, a 70 per cent fall in the value of the rial currency so far this year and state corruption. "A year ago no one would have believed ... that Europe would stand with Iran and against America," Rouhani said. "Russia, China, India, the European Union, and some African and Latin American countries are our friends. We have to work with them and attract investments," he added. Mohammad Shariatmadari, the outgoing industries minister, was approved to head the Labour, Cooperatives and Social Affairs Ministry. Parliament also approved the appointment of Mohammad Eslami to head the Urban Development and Roads Ministry, while Reza Rahmani, who previously headed a parliamentary commission on mining and industry, became the new industry, mines and trade minister.

Rouhani reshuffles economic team, says US isolated against Iran

The killing of 11 people in the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in recent United States history has sparked a flood of international condemnation and warnings about the rise of hate speech.&nbsp;

The gunman reportedly yelled "All Jews must die" as he sprayed bullets into the congregation on Saturday during Sabbath services at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Robert Bowers, the 46-year-old suspect taken into custody after a firefight with police, has been charged with murder and federal hate crimes that carry the death penalty.&nbsp;

Here are some reactions to the attack from around the world: &nbsp;

'Flames of hate'

Pope Francis, at the end of the Angelus prayer in Saint Peter's Square, expressed his sadness at the violence. &nbsp;

"We are all, in truth, wounded by this inhuman act of violence," he said.&nbsp;

"May the Lord help us put out the flames of hate that develop in our societies, strengthening the sense of humanity, respect for life, moral and civil values and holy fear of God."

'Assault on all of us'

Donald Trump denounced the shooting as "a wicked act of mass murder."

"This evil anti-Semitic attack is an assault on all of us," Trump told supporters at an election rally in Illinois, urging people to "stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters to defeat anti-Semitism and vanquish the forces of hate."

His daughter Ivanka, a convert to Judaism, declared: "America is stronger than the acts of a depraved bigot and anti-Semite."&nbsp;

'Dangers of unchecked hatred'

The attack sent a tremor of shock through America's Jewish community, the largest outside Israel.

In a statement, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum said it "reminds all Americans of the dangers of unchecked hatred and anti-Semitism which must be confronted wherever they appear and calls on all Americans to actively work to promote social solidarity and respect the dignity of all individuals."

The Anti-Defamation League, a civil rights group, said it believes the Pittsburgh shooting to be the deadliest such attack in US history.

"It is simply unconscionable for Jews to be targeted during worship on a Sabbath morning, and unthinkable that it would happen in the United States of America in this day and age," it said.

'Heartbroken'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his nation grieves with the victims.&nbsp;

"I was heartbroken and appalled by the murderous attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue today," Netanyahu said in a video message.&nbsp;

"We stand together with the Jewish community of Pittsburgh. We stand together with the American people in the face of this horrendous antisemitic brutality."

'No place in the 21st century'

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a united front "to roll back the forces of racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and other forms of hatred, bigotry, discrimination and xenophobia gaining strength in many parts of the world."

"Anti-Semitism is a menace to democratic values and peace, and should have no place in the 21st century," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

Condemnation and condolence

German Chancellor Angela Merkel denounced the deadly shooting as "blind anti-Semitic hatred".

"We all have to stand up against anti-Semitism, everywhere," she said, in a brief statement posted on Twitter by a German government spokesman.

French President Emmanuel Macron said he "strongly condemned the act of antisemitism in Pittsburgh" in a tweet, adding that his thoughts were with the victims.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a tweet that "Canadians' hearts are with the Jewish community in Pittsburgh today."&nbsp;

"May the families of those murdered be comforted, and may the injured recover quickly and fully," he said.

The killing of 11 people in the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in recent United States history has sparked a flood of international condemnation and warnings about the rise of hate speech.

The killing of 11 people in the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in recent United States history has sparked a flood of international condemnation and warnings about the rise of hate speech. The gunman reportedly yelled "All Jews must die" as he sprayed bullets into the congregation on Saturday during Sabbath services at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Robert Bowers, the 46-year-old suspect taken into custody after a firefight with police, has been charged with murder and federal hate crimes that carry the death penalty. Here are some reactions to the attack from around the world: 'Flames of hate' Pope Francis, at the end of the Angelus prayer in Saint Peter's Square, expressed his sadness at the violence. "We are all, in truth, wounded by this inhuman act of violence," he said. "May the Lord help us put out the flames of hate that develop in our societies, strengthening the sense of humanity, respect for life, moral and civil values and holy fear of God." 'Assault on all of us' Donald Trump denounced the shooting as "a wicked act of mass murder." "This evil anti-Semitic attack is an assault on all of us," Trump told supporters at an election rally in Illinois, urging people to "stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters to defeat anti-Semitism and vanquish the forces of hate." His daughter Ivanka, a convert to Judaism, declared: "America is stronger than the acts of a depraved bigot and anti-Semite." 'Dangers of unchecked hatred' The attack sent a tremor of shock through America's Jewish community, the largest outside Israel. In a statement, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum said it "reminds all Americans of the dangers of unchecked hatred and anti-Semitism which must be confronted wherever they appear and calls on all Americans to actively work to promote social solidarity and respect the dignity of all individuals." The Anti-Defamation League, a civil rights group, said it believes the Pittsburgh shooting to be the deadliest such attack in US history. "It is simply unconscionable for Jews to be targeted during worship on a Sabbath morning, and unthinkable that it would happen in the United States of America in this day and age," it said. 'Heartbroken' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his nation grieves with the victims. "I was heartbroken and appalled by the murderous attack on a Pittsburgh synagogue today," Netanyahu said in a video message. "We stand together with the Jewish community of Pittsburgh. We stand together with the American people in the face of this horrendous antisemitic brutality." 'No place in the 21st century' UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a united front "to roll back the forces of racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and other forms of hatred, bigotry, discrimination and xenophobia gaining strength in many parts of the world." "Anti-Semitism is a menace to democratic values and peace, and should have no place in the 21st century," he said in a statement. Condemnation and condolence German Chancellor Angela Merkel denounced the deadly shooting as "blind anti-Semitic hatred". "We all have to stand up against anti-Semitism, everywhere," she said, in a brief statement posted on Twitter by a German government spokesman. French President Emmanuel Macron said he "strongly condemned the act of antisemitism in Pittsburgh" in a tweet, adding that his thoughts were with the victims. Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a tweet that "Canadians' hearts are with the Jewish community in Pittsburgh today." "May the families of those murdered be comforted, and may the injured recover quickly and fully," he said.

Grief and alarm in world as reaction to deadly US synagogue shooting

The Israeli army on Saturday accused the Syrian government and Iran of ordering Palestinian militants in Gaza.

Dozens of rockets were fired into southern Israel and Israel also threatened to retaliate whatever it chose.

"The rockets that were launched against Israel... we know that the orders, incentives were given from Damascus with the clear involvement of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force," Israeli army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told journalists, referring to the Guards' foreign operations unit.

The rockets were launched by Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian militant group. They said it had signed up to an Egyptian-brokered truce with Israel to cease hostilities, though there was no Israeli confirmation.

At least 39 rockets have been fired since late Friday killing six people on the Gaza-Israel border, with 17 of them intercepted by air defences and the rest hitting open ground, the army said.

The army also said that Israeli aircraft struck eight Islamic Jihad sites and also targeted approximately 90 sites belonging to the territory's Islamist rulers Hamas.

The Israeli army on Saturday accused the Syrian government and Iran of ordering Palestinian militants in Gaza. Dozens of rockets were fired into southern Israel and Israel also threatened to retaliate whatever it chose.

The Israeli army on Saturday accused the Syrian government and Iran of ordering Palestinian militants in Gaza. Dozens of rockets were fired into southern Israel and Israel also threatened to retaliate whatever it chose. "The rockets that were launched against Israel... we know that the orders, incentives were given from Damascus with the clear involvement of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force," Israeli army spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus told journalists, referring to the Guards' foreign operations unit. The rockets were launched by Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian militant group. They said it had signed up to an Egyptian-brokered truce with Israel to cease hostilities, though there was no Israeli confirmation. At least 39 rockets have been fired since late Friday killing six people on the Gaza-Israel border, with 17 of them intercepted by air defences and the rest hitting open ground, the army said. The army also said that Israeli aircraft struck eight Islamic Jihad sites and also targeted approximately 90 sites belonging to the territory's Islamist rulers Hamas.

Israel accuses Syria, Iran of ordering Palestinian militants in Gaza

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