Donald Trump's administration is planning to bypass Congress to allow the sale of $7 billion worth of arms to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-says-it-seeks-to-avert-war-ball-in-irans-court-219802">Saudi Arabia </a>and the United Arab Emirates, which are involved in a bloody war in Yemen, The New York Times reported Thursday.

US Secretary of State<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-in-russia-five-talking-points-218640"> Mike Pompeo </a>and several State Department appointees are pushing the administration to invoke an emergency provision that would allow Trump to prevent Congress from halting the sales, which are currently on hold.

Reports of the plan have angered politicians on both sides of the aisle, who are frustrated by the government's support for the Saudi-led coalition in the ongoing Yemen war.

Democratic Representative Eliot Engel, who chairs the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, called invoking the provision a "slap in Congress's face."

"I have deep concerns about how our Gulf partners have conducted the war in Yemen, including with US weapons, some of which have reportedly ended up in the wrong hands in Yemen," he said in a statement.

The provision could be invoked within the next few days, the Times said, citing current and former officials, as well as legislators familiar with the plan.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Wednesday, "We do not comment to confirm or deny potential arms sales or transfers until Congress is formally notified."

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy took to Twitter to denounce the potential move, which would allow Trump to claim the sale constitutes an emergency, thereby preventing Congress from voting against it.

It's "a loophole that would allow any President to claim any number of Middle East crises as an 'emergency' and then Congress will never ever be able to object to an arms sale again," he said on Twitter.

He added that if there is an emergency, then it is a "humanitarian emergency caused by the bombs we sell the Saudis."

The war in Yemen is the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with the World Health Organization estimating that nearly 10,000 people have been killed in the country since March 2015, but rights groups say the toll could be far higher.

Congress dealt Trump a harsh rebuke in March with a historic bipartisan resolution that would have curtailed the president's war-making powers and ended American support for the Saudi-led coalition.

Trump vetoed the measure in April, the second such move of his presidency.

The sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia risks further inflaming the already-tense relations between the US and Iran, which views Riyadh as one of its main rivals.

Donald Trump's administration is planning to bypass Congress to allow the sale of $7 billion worth of arms to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which are involved in a bloody war in Yemen, The New York Times reported Thursday.

Donald Trump's administration is planning to bypass Congress to allow the sale of $7 billion worth of arms to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which are involved in a bloody war in Yemen, The New York Times reported Thursday. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and several State Department appointees are pushing the administration to invoke an emergency provision that would allow Trump to prevent Congress from halting the sales, which are currently on hold. Reports of the plan have angered politicians on both sides of the aisle, who are frustrated by the government's support for the Saudi-led coalition in the ongoing Yemen war. Democratic Representative Eliot Engel, who chairs the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, called invoking the provision a "slap in Congress's face." "I have deep concerns about how our Gulf partners have conducted the war in Yemen, including with US weapons, some of which have reportedly ended up in the wrong hands in Yemen," he said in a statement. The provision could be invoked within the next few days, the Times said, citing current and former officials, as well as legislators familiar with the plan. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Wednesday, "We do not comment to confirm or deny potential arms sales or transfers until Congress is formally notified." Democratic Senator Chris Murphy took to Twitter to denounce the potential move, which would allow Trump to claim the sale constitutes an emergency, thereby preventing Congress from voting against it. It's "a loophole that would allow any President to claim any number of Middle East crises as an 'emergency' and then Congress will never ever be able to object to an arms sale again," he said on Twitter. He added that if there is an emergency, then it is a "humanitarian emergency caused by the bombs we sell the Saudis." The war in Yemen is the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with the World Health Organization estimating that nearly 10,000 people have been killed in the country since March 2015, but rights groups say the toll could be far higher. Congress dealt Trump a harsh rebuke in March with a historic bipartisan resolution that would have curtailed the president's war-making powers and ended American support for the Saudi-led coalition. Trump vetoed the measure in April, the second such move of his presidency. The sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia risks further inflaming the already-tense relations between the US and Iran, which views Riyadh as one of its main rivals.

Trump officials plan to bypass Congress for Saudi arms sales: Report

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill were briefed behind closed doors Tuesday about the escalation in tensions with Iran. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and intelligence officials were on hand to get lawmakers up to speed on recent threats in the region as well as explain U.S. military posturing.

US officials seek to tamp down Trump rhetoric on Iran

US&nbsp;Ambassador to China Terry Branstad was scheduled to visit Tibet this week, a US&nbsp;embassy spokeswoman said, the first visit to the region by a US&nbsp;ambassador since 2015, amid escalating trade tension between the two countries.

The visit follows the passing of a law in December that requires the United States to deny visas to Chinese officials in charge of implementing policies that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-systematically-impeding-travel-to-tibet-us-state-department-report-205770">restrict access to Tibet for foreigners</a>, legislation that was denounced by China.

"This visit is a chance for the ambassador to engage with local leaders to raise longstanding concerns about restrictions on religious freedom and the preservation of Tibetan culture and language," the spokeswoman said in an emailed statement.

Branstad was travelling to Qinghai province and neighbouring Tibet from May 19 to May 25 on a trip that will include official meetings as well as visits to religious and cultural heritage sites, the spokesperson said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said the government welcomed Branstad's visit and he could see for himself the big changes that have taken place there since Tibet was "peacefully liberated" more than six decades ago.

China hopes that Branstad does not take any "prejudices" with him on this trip and goes with an objective attitude so he can reach his own conclusions, Lu told a daily news briefing.

"Especially on the protection and development of Tibetan culture, religion, heritage, and history, I hope that he can respect the facts and draw his own conclusions, instead of being confused and disturbed by hearsay and certain long-standing rumours and smears."

In December, China criticised the United States for passing the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act, which seeks to promote access to Tibet for US&nbsp;diplomats and other officials, journalists and other citizens by denying US entry for Chinese officials deemed responsible for restricting access to Tibet.

The US government is required to begin denying visas by the end of this year.

Call for restraint

China says it is "resolutely opposed" to the US&nbsp;legislation on what China considers an internal affair, and it risked causing "serious harm" to their relations.

The ambassador's visit comes as tensions have been running high between the two countries over trade. China struck a more aggressive tone in its trade war with the United States on Friday, suggesting a resumption of talks between the world's two largest economies would be meaningless unless Washington changed course.

On Saturday, the Chinese government's top diplomat, Wang Yi, told US&nbsp;Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-lawmakers-press-pompeo-for-answers-on-iran-arms-control-report-219258">Mike Pompeo </a>that recent US&nbsp;words and actions had harmed the interests of China and its enterprises and that Washington should show restraint.

While the Trump administration has taken a tough stance towards China on trade and highlighted security rivalry, it has not acted on congressional calls for it to impose sanctions on China's former Communist Party chief in Tibet, Chen Quanguo, for the treatment of minority Muslims in the Xinjiang region, where he is party chief.

The State Department said in a March report Chen had replicated in Xinjiang policies similar to those credited with reducing opposition to Chinese rule in Tibet.

Beijing sent troops into remote, mountainous Tibet in 1950 in what it officially terms a peaceful liberation and has ruled there with an iron fist ever since.

US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad was scheduled to visit Tibet this week, a US embassy spokeswoman said, the first visit to the region by a US ambassador since 2015, amid escalating trade tension between the two countries.

US Ambassador to China Terry Branstad was scheduled to visit Tibet this week, a US embassy spokeswoman said, the first visit to the region by a US ambassador since 2015, amid escalating trade tension between the two countries. The visit follows the passing of a law in December that requires the United States to deny visas to Chinese officials in charge of implementing policies that restrict access to Tibet for foreigners, legislation that was denounced by China. "This visit is a chance for the ambassador to engage with local leaders to raise longstanding concerns about restrictions on religious freedom and the preservation of Tibetan culture and language," the spokeswoman said in an emailed statement. Branstad was travelling to Qinghai province and neighbouring Tibet from May 19 to May 25 on a trip that will include official meetings as well as visits to religious and cultural heritage sites, the spokesperson said. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said the government welcomed Branstad's visit and he could see for himself the big changes that have taken place there since Tibet was "peacefully liberated" more than six decades ago. China hopes that Branstad does not take any "prejudices" with him on this trip and goes with an objective attitude so he can reach his own conclusions, Lu told a daily news briefing. "Especially on the protection and development of Tibetan culture, religion, heritage, and history, I hope that he can respect the facts and draw his own conclusions, instead of being confused and disturbed by hearsay and certain long-standing rumours and smears." In December, China criticised the United States for passing the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act, which seeks to promote access to Tibet for US diplomats and other officials, journalists and other citizens by denying US entry for Chinese officials deemed responsible for restricting access to Tibet. The US government is required to begin denying visas by the end of this year. Call for restraint China says it is "resolutely opposed" to the US legislation on what China considers an internal affair, and it risked causing "serious harm" to their relations. The ambassador's visit comes as tensions have been running high between the two countries over trade. China struck a more aggressive tone in its trade war with the United States on Friday, suggesting a resumption of talks between the world's two largest economies would be meaningless unless Washington changed course. On Saturday, the Chinese government's top diplomat, Wang Yi, told US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that recent US words and actions had harmed the interests of China and its enterprises and that Washington should show restraint. While the Trump administration has taken a tough stance towards China on trade and highlighted security rivalry, it has not acted on congressional calls for it to impose sanctions on China's former Communist Party chief in Tibet, Chen Quanguo, for the treatment of minority Muslims in the Xinjiang region, where he is party chief. The State Department said in a March report Chen had replicated in Xinjiang policies similar to those credited with reducing opposition to Chinese rule in Tibet. Beijing sent troops into remote, mountainous Tibet in 1950 in what it officially terms a peaceful liberation and has ruled there with an iron fist ever since.

US Ambassador to China visiting Tibet this week

China's top diplomat Wang Yi has asked US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo not to go "too far" in its "damaging moves" against the Chinese interests, saying that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-tough-rhetoric-leaves-trade-talks-with-us-in-limbo-219517">both countries will benefit from cooperation and lose from conflicts</a>.

State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang held a telephonic conversation with Pompeo on Saturday, days after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring American companies from installing the foreign-made telecom equipment posing a national security threat, a move apparently aimed at banning Huawei from US networks.

Beijing has warned of retaliation against the order that effectively barred Chinese telecom giant Huawei from the US market.

The world's top two economies are locked in a trade battle that has seen mounting tariffs, sparking fears that the conflict could damage the global economy.

Wang, noting that the US has recently made remarks and taken actions that are harmful to the Chinese interests in various fields including cracking down on Chinese enterprises' normal operations through political measures, said China strongly opposes such actions.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-donald-trump-vows-to-strike-trade-deal-with-china-218837/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

"We urge the US side not to go too far," he told Pompeo.

History and reality have shown that as two big countries, China and the US will both benefit from cooperation and lose from conflicts, Wang said, adding that cooperation is the only right choice for the two countries.

The two sides should follow the direction set by the two countries' heads of state, manage their differences on the basis of mutual respect, expand cooperation on the basis of mutual benefit, and work together in pushing forward a China-US relationship based on coordination, cooperation and stability, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Wang as saying.

China has always been willing to resolve economic and trade differences through negotiations and consultations, which, however, should be conducted on the basis of equality, he said, adding that China, in any negotiations, must safeguard its legitimate interests, answer the calls of its people, and defend the basic norms of international relations.

Wang stressed that China has stated its firm opposition to the US' recent negative words and acts related to Taiwan, and urged Washington to abide by the 'one-China principle' and the three China-US joint communiques, and handle Taiwan-related issues carefully and properly.

The two sides also exchanged views on relevant international and regional&nbsp; 
issues, the report said.

Wang emphasized that China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, is committed to the de-nuclearisation, peace and stability of the Middle East.

The trade war between China and the US escalated after Trump this month increased the import duty on Chinese products worth $200 billion from 10 per cent to 25 per cent. China retaliated by slapping tariffs on $60 billion worth of US imports.

Trump has been demanding that China reduce the massive trade deficit which last year climbed to over $539 billion. He is also pressing for verifiable measures for protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), technology transfer and more access to American goods to Chinese markets.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi has asked US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo not to go "too far" in its "damaging moves" against the Chinese interests, saying that both countries will benefit from cooperation and lose from conflicts.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi has asked US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo not to go "too far" in its "damaging moves" against the Chinese interests, saying that both countries will benefit from cooperation and lose from conflicts. State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang held a telephonic conversation with Pompeo on Saturday, days after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order barring American companies from installing the foreign-made telecom equipment posing a national security threat, a move apparently aimed at banning Huawei from US networks. Beijing has warned of retaliation against the order that effectively barred Chinese telecom giant Huawei from the US market. The world's top two economies are locked in a trade battle that has seen mounting tariffs, sparking fears that the conflict could damage the global economy. Wang, noting that the US has recently made remarks and taken actions that are harmful to the Chinese interests in various fields including cracking down on Chinese enterprises' normal operations through political measures, said China strongly opposes such actions. "We urge the US side not to go too far," he told Pompeo. History and reality have shown that as two big countries, China and the US will both benefit from cooperation and lose from conflicts, Wang said, adding that cooperation is the only right choice for the two countries. The two sides should follow the direction set by the two countries' heads of state, manage their differences on the basis of mutual respect, expand cooperation on the basis of mutual benefit, and work together in pushing forward a China-US relationship based on coordination, cooperation and stability, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted Wang as saying. China has always been willing to resolve economic and trade differences through negotiations and consultations, which, however, should be conducted on the basis of equality, he said, adding that China, in any negotiations, must safeguard its legitimate interests, answer the calls of its people, and defend the basic norms of international relations. Wang stressed that China has stated its firm opposition to the US' recent negative words and acts related to Taiwan, and urged Washington to abide by the 'one-China principle' and the three China-US joint communiques, and handle Taiwan-related issues carefully and properly. The two sides also exchanged views on relevant international and regional issues, the report said. Wang emphasized that China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, is committed to the de-nuclearisation, peace and stability of the Middle East. The trade war between China and the US escalated after Trump this month increased the import duty on Chinese products worth $200 billion from 10 per cent to 25 per cent. China retaliated by slapping tariffs on $60 billion worth of US imports. Trump has been demanding that China reduce the massive trade deficit which last year climbed to over $539 billion. He is also pressing for verifiable measures for protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), technology transfer and more access to American goods to Chinese markets.

Don't go 'too far' in 'damaging moves': China tells US

Some Democrats vying for the party's 2020 presidential nomination shifted the focus of the race to foreign policy on Sunday, criticizing Republican President Donald Trump as a weak commander in chief who is escalating tensions with Iran.

The relationship between Washington and Tehran has become increasingly strained in recent weeks, raising concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict.

Trump and hawkish foreign policy advisers like national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo want Tehran to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

Trump has tightened economic sanctions against Iran, aimed at forcing its leaders into negotiations. Pompeo last year outlined a list of demands on Iran that critics said showed he was pushing for regime change.

Representative Tulsi Gabbard, one of 24 Democrats vying for the White House nomination, said on ABC's "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" that Trump was "leading us down this dangerous path towards a war with Iran."

"He says he doesn't want it, but the actions of him and his administration, people like John Bolton and Mike Pompeo, tell us a very different story. They are setting the stage for a war with Iran that would prove to be far more costly, far more devastating and dangerous than anything that we saw in the Iraq war," Gabbard said.

Trump has said he is not pushing for war with Iran. During the 2016 presidential campaign, he promised to stay out of overseas conflicts, saying the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq were too costly.

In May 2018, Trump withdrew the United States from a multinational deal with Iran negotiated by the Obama administration that reduced economic sanctions on Tehran in exchange for scaling back its nuclear program. Trump criticized the deal as weak, saying he would negotiate a stronger one.

Gabbard, 38, enlisted in the US Army National Guard after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks and was twice deployed to the Middle East. Gabbard has said she is running for president to end regime-change wars, though she currently trails most of her 2020 opponents in opinion polls.

Another White House hopeful, Representative Seth Moulton, a 40-year-old former US Marine Corps officer who did four tours in Iraq, told "This Week" that if the Trump administration sends additional troops to the Gulf it could "drag us into war."

"Make no mistake, this is exactly what John Bolton wants to have happen," said Moulton, who also trails in 2020 opinion polls. "The world is so dangerous when you have a weak commander in chief in the president of the United States."&nbsp;

Moulton counts as a mentor former Vice President Joe Biden, who currently leads the 2020 Democratic field in support. When asked why Democratic primary voters should back him over his mentor, Moulton said: "I think it's time for the generation that fought in Iraq and Afghanistan to take over for the generation that sent us there."

Gabbard resigned her post at the Democratic National Committee in 2016 when Hillary Clinton was the nominee because she said the former secretary of state's foreign policy positions were too hawkish. Gabbard was asked by ABC if that also applied to Biden, given both he and Clinton served in the Obama administration.

"We'll see what Vice President Biden's foreign policy vision is for this country. We may agree on some issues, disagree on others," Gabbard said.

Some Democrats vying for the party's 2020 presidential nomination shifted the focus of the race to foreign policy on Sunday, criticizing Republican President Donald Trump as a weak commander in chief who is escalating tensions with Iran.

Some Democrats vying for the party's 2020 presidential nomination shifted the focus of the race to foreign policy on Sunday, criticizing Republican President Donald Trump as a weak commander in chief who is escalating tensions with Iran. The relationship between Washington and Tehran has become increasingly strained in recent weeks, raising concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict. Trump and hawkish foreign policy advisers like national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo want Tehran to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Trump has tightened economic sanctions against Iran, aimed at forcing its leaders into negotiations. Pompeo last year outlined a list of demands on Iran that critics said showed he was pushing for regime change. Representative Tulsi Gabbard, one of 24 Democrats vying for the White House nomination, said on ABC's "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" that Trump was "leading us down this dangerous path towards a war with Iran." "He says he doesn't want it, but the actions of him and his administration, people like John Bolton and Mike Pompeo, tell us a very different story. They are setting the stage for a war with Iran that would prove to be far more costly, far more devastating and dangerous than anything that we saw in the Iraq war," Gabbard said. Trump has said he is not pushing for war with Iran. During the 2016 presidential campaign, he promised to stay out of overseas conflicts, saying the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq were too costly. In May 2018, Trump withdrew the United States from a multinational deal with Iran negotiated by the Obama administration that reduced economic sanctions on Tehran in exchange for scaling back its nuclear program. Trump criticized the deal as weak, saying he would negotiate a stronger one. Gabbard, 38, enlisted in the US Army National Guard after the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks and was twice deployed to the Middle East. Gabbard has said she is running for president to end regime-change wars, though she currently trails most of her 2020 opponents in opinion polls. Another White House hopeful, Representative Seth Moulton, a 40-year-old former US Marine Corps officer who did four tours in Iraq, told "This Week" that if the Trump administration sends additional troops to the Gulf it could "drag us into war." "Make no mistake, this is exactly what John Bolton wants to have happen," said Moulton, who also trails in 2020 opinion polls. "The world is so dangerous when you have a weak commander in chief in the president of the United States." Moulton counts as a mentor former Vice President Joe Biden, who currently leads the 2020 Democratic field in support. When asked why Democratic primary voters should back him over his mentor, Moulton said: "I think it's time for the generation that fought in Iraq and Afghanistan to take over for the generation that sent us there." Gabbard resigned her post at the Democratic National Committee in 2016 when Hillary Clinton was the nominee because she said the former secretary of state's foreign policy positions were too hawkish. Gabbard was asked by ABC if that also applied to Biden, given both he and Clinton served in the Obama administration. "We'll see what Vice President Biden's foreign policy vision is for this country. We may agree on some issues, disagree on others," Gabbard said.

2020 White House hopefuls turn to foreign policy, slam Trump on Iran

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported.

"We know that Trump has spoken of his desire for a meeting, but unfortunately we also know that (US Secretary of State Mike) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-meets-pompeo-as-us-seeks-a-way-forward-in-ties-218663">Pompeo did not bring any concrete proposals</a> about organising such a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Osaka," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited as saying.

Meanwhile, a Kremlin aide said on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a new meeting with US President Donald Trump if Moscow receives a formal proposal for such an encounter. The remark came after Putin held talks with US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo.

Trump on Monday said he planned to meet Putin on the sidelines of a meeting of G20 nations in Japan next month, but the Kremlin said it had not yet received any formal request from Washington for such a meeting.

Yuri Ushakov, the Kremlin aide, said Putin's meeting with Pompeo at the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi had not yielded any breakthrough but had been held in a business-like atmosphere.

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported.

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported. "We know that Trump has spoken of his desire for a meeting, but unfortunately we also know that (US Secretary of State Mike) Pompeo did not bring any concrete proposals about organising such a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Osaka," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited as saying. Meanwhile, a Kremlin aide said on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a new meeting with US President Donald Trump if Moscow receives a formal proposal for such an encounter. The remark came after Putin held talks with US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo. Trump on Monday said he planned to meet Putin on the sidelines of a meeting of G20 nations in Japan next month, but the Kremlin said it had not yet received any formal request from Washington for such a meeting. Yuri Ushakov, the Kremlin aide, said Putin's meeting with Pompeo at the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi had not yielded any breakthrough but had been held in a business-like atmosphere.

Kremlin waiting for US decision on Putin-Trump meeting: Report

The US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Friday denied friction with his hawkish foreign policy advisers on Iran, specifically giving statements of support to White House national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-lawmakers-press-pompeo-for-answers-on-iran-arms-control-report-219258"> Mike Pompeo</a>.

Trump called "bullshit" a variety of news reports that he had chafed at his advisers and privately expressed concerns that they were trying to steer him into a war with Iran.

The US&nbsp;officials said on Thursday that Trump had told his advisers, including acting<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-picks-ex-boeing-executive-shanahan-as-defense-secretary-217433"> Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan</a>, that he did not want to get into a war with Iran.

"They (the news media) put out messages that I'm angry with my people. I'm not angry with my people. I make my own decisions," Trump said at a realtor's convention in Washington. "Mike Pompeo is doing a great job. Bolton is doing a great job."

Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign promised to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

But he also has said he will do what it takes to protect US&nbsp;interests abroad. The recent deployment of a US&nbsp;aircraft carrier group has raised tensions in the Gulf region and fanned fears of armed conflict.

Trump has approved sanctions against Tehran aimed at crippling the Iranian economy and forcing Iranian leaders to the negotiating table. The United States wants Iran to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and stop other activities it believes are destabilising in the Middle East.

Pompeo laid out a lengthy list of demands on Iran a year ago that critics inside and outside Tehran said showed he was pushing for regime change.

Bolton has a long reputation as a hawk who believes the United States needs to get tough with Iran and has pushed a hard line inside the administration since joining the White House more than a year ago.

While he has been tough on Iran, Trump told reporters last week that he sometimes has to "temper" Bolton.

"We are all frustrated with this notion that we are escalating, that we are seeking conflict," said a senior administration official, who spoke to a small group of reporters under the condition of anonymity. "Nothing could be further from the truth. We are seeking de-escalation."

The official was asked about the notion of Bolton and Pompeo trying to "herd" Trump down the path of war. "Herding Trump down any path is an unsuccessful strategy. There are many witnesses to that," the official said.

Bolton's views on Iran are well-documented, the official said, but stressed, "He has no illusions. He serves the president and he accepted this job because he believes in the president's policies, and he carries them out."

As for Trump's overture to Iran seeking direct talks, there are no indications from the Iranians that they are ready to engage, the official said: "Not yet. We're sitting by the phone."

US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US&nbsp;officials took as a threat against American targets in the region.

The US President Donald Trump on Friday denied friction with his hawkish foreign policy advisers on Iran, specifically giving statements of support to White House national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The US President Donald Trump on Friday denied friction with his hawkish foreign policy advisers on Iran, specifically giving statements of support to White House national security adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Trump called "bullshit" a variety of news reports that he had chafed at his advisers and privately expressed concerns that they were trying to steer him into a war with Iran. The US officials said on Thursday that Trump had told his advisers, including acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan, that he did not want to get into a war with Iran. "They (the news media) put out messages that I'm angry with my people. I'm not angry with my people. I make my own decisions," Trump said at a realtor's convention in Washington. "Mike Pompeo is doing a great job. Bolton is doing a great job." Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign promised to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. But he also has said he will do what it takes to protect US interests abroad. The recent deployment of a US aircraft carrier group has raised tensions in the Gulf region and fanned fears of armed conflict. Trump has approved sanctions against Tehran aimed at crippling the Iranian economy and forcing Iranian leaders to the negotiating table. The United States wants Iran to give up its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and stop other activities it believes are destabilising in the Middle East. Pompeo laid out a lengthy list of demands on Iran a year ago that critics inside and outside Tehran said showed he was pushing for regime change. Bolton has a long reputation as a hawk who believes the United States needs to get tough with Iran and has pushed a hard line inside the administration since joining the White House more than a year ago. While he has been tough on Iran, Trump told reporters last week that he sometimes has to "temper" Bolton. "We are all frustrated with this notion that we are escalating, that we are seeking conflict," said a senior administration official, who spoke to a small group of reporters under the condition of anonymity. "Nothing could be further from the truth. We are seeking de-escalation." The official was asked about the notion of Bolton and Pompeo trying to "herd" Trump down the path of war. "Herding Trump down any path is an unsuccessful strategy. There are many witnesses to that," the official said. Bolton's views on Iran are well-documented, the official said, but stressed, "He has no illusions. He serves the president and he accepted this job because he believes in the president's policies, and he carries them out." As for Trump's overture to Iran seeking direct talks, there are no indications from the Iranians that they are ready to engage, the official said: "Not yet. We're sitting by the phone." US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US officials took as a threat against American targets in the region.

US President Trump denies friction with top aides over Iran policy

The chairmen of three congressional committees on national security on Thursday pressed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to explain whether a Trump administration <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-deal-joint-commission-meets-in-vienna-without-us-201692">arms control report</a> was politicised and slanted assessments about Iran.

The chairmen of Foreign Affairs, Armed Services and Intelligence committees in the US House of Representatives - all Democrats - asked Pompeo in a letter to provide a State Department briefing and documents no later than May 23.

The letter cited a story from April 17 that reported how the administration's annual report to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-meets-pompeo-as-us-seeks-a-way-forward-in-ties-218663">Congress assessing compliance</a> with arms control agreements provoked a dispute with US intelligence agencies and some State Department officials.

The dissenting officials, sources said, were concerned that the document politicized and skewed assessments against Iran.

"Our nation knows all too well the perils of ignoring and 'cherry-picking' intelligence in foreign policy and national security decisions," the chairmen said in their letter. They referred to the selective use of intelligence "to justify the march to war" in Iraq in 2003.

The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Tensions have risen between the United States and Iran this month following statements from Washington that the US military was braced for "possibly imminent threats to US forces in Iraq" from Iran-backed groups.

US President Donald Trump has told top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday.

The letter signed by Chairmen Eliot Engel of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Adam Smith of Armed Services and Adam Schiff of Intelligence also questioned why the unclassified report was only 12 pages compared to 45 the previous year.

Trump has tightened economic sanctions on Iran and intensified efforts to contain its power in the Middle East after withdrawing Washington a year ago from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, raising fears among some in Congress about intelligence possibly being misused to lay the groundwork to justify military action. Under the accord, Tehran curbed its uranium enrichment capacity, a potential pathway to a nuclear bomb, and won sanctions relief in return.

Trump is sending an aircraft carrier group, B-52 bombers and Patriot missiles to the Middle East to counter what Washington has called a heightened threat from Iran in the region.

Iran described the US moves as "psychological warfare", and a British commander cast doubt on U.S. military concerns about threats to its roughly 5,000 soldiers in Iraq.

The chairmen of three congressional committees on national security on Thursday pressed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to explain whether a Trump administration arms control report was politicised and slanted assessments about Iran.

The chairmen of three congressional committees on national security on Thursday pressed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to explain whether a Trump administration arms control report was politicised and slanted assessments about Iran. The chairmen of Foreign Affairs, Armed Services and Intelligence committees in the US House of Representatives - all Democrats - asked Pompeo in a letter to provide a State Department briefing and documents no later than May 23. The letter cited a story from April 17 that reported how the administration's annual report to Congress assessing compliance with arms control agreements provoked a dispute with US intelligence agencies and some State Department officials. The dissenting officials, sources said, were concerned that the document politicized and skewed assessments against Iran. "Our nation knows all too well the perils of ignoring and 'cherry-picking' intelligence in foreign policy and national security decisions," the chairmen said in their letter. They referred to the selective use of intelligence "to justify the march to war" in Iraq in 2003. The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Tensions have risen between the United States and Iran this month following statements from Washington that the US military was braced for "possibly imminent threats to US forces in Iraq" from Iran-backed groups. US President Donald Trump has told top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. The letter signed by Chairmen Eliot Engel of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Adam Smith of Armed Services and Adam Schiff of Intelligence also questioned why the unclassified report was only 12 pages compared to 45 the previous year. Trump has tightened economic sanctions on Iran and intensified efforts to contain its power in the Middle East after withdrawing Washington a year ago from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, raising fears among some in Congress about intelligence possibly being misused to lay the groundwork to justify military action. Under the accord, Tehran curbed its uranium enrichment capacity, a potential pathway to a nuclear bomb, and won sanctions relief in return. Trump is sending an aircraft carrier group, B-52 bombers and Patriot missiles to the Middle East to counter what Washington has called a heightened threat from Iran in the region. Iran described the US moves as "psychological warfare", and a British commander cast doubt on U.S. military concerns about threats to its roughly 5,000 soldiers in Iraq.

Russian President Putin open to meet US President at G20 in June

The European Union told United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to exercise maximum restraint and avoid any escalation on the military side with Iran. Tensions have been mounting in the Gulf a year after Washington withdrew from a landmark deal that curbed Iran's nuclear programme.

'Maximum restraint': EU reject US escalation with Iran

Russian foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-positive-venezuela-talks-with-russian-president-putin-donald-trump-215772">Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday</a> said he had "frank and useful" discussions with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on a slew of issues, including Venezuela and Syria.&nbsp;

"We discussed in detail the situation regarding bilateral affairs and exchanged opinions on Venezuela, Syria and the state of affairs regarding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action for Iran," Lavrov said at a press conference.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that he urged Russia in talks to end support for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-secretary-pompeo-russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-trade-accusations-on-venezuela-in-phone-call-215196">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a>, but his call was flatly rejected by Moscow.

"The time has come for Nicolas Maduro to go, he has brought nothing but misery to the Venezuelan people, and we hope that Russian support for Maduro will end," Pompeo told a joint news conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in the Black Sea resort of Sochi.

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Pompeo said that the United States does not want war with Iran but vowed to keep pressuring Tehran.

"We fundamentally do not see a war with Iran," Pompeo told a joint news conference with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov in Sochi.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday dismissed as "fiction" speculation that US President Donald Trump had colluded with Moscow in his election campaign.

"It's clear that such insinuations are absolute fiction," he said after talks with his US counterpart Mike Pompeo.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Russia not to interfere in next year's US election and said Moscow needs to show that its purported meddling is over.

If Russia interferes in the 2020 election, "it would put our relationship in an even worse place," Pompeo told a joint news conference with foreign minister Sergei Lavrov, calling on Russia "to demonstrate that these types of activities are a thing of the past."

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday said he had "frank and useful" discussions with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on a slew of issues, including Venezuela and Syria.

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday said he had "frank and useful" discussions with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on a slew of issues, including Venezuela and Syria. "We discussed in detail the situation regarding bilateral affairs and exchanged opinions on Venezuela, Syria and the state of affairs regarding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action for Iran," Lavrov said at a press conference. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that he urged Russia in talks to end support for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, but his call was flatly rejected by Moscow. "The time has come for Nicolas Maduro to go, he has brought nothing but misery to the Venezuelan people, and we hope that Russian support for Maduro will end," Pompeo told a joint news conference with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in the Black Sea resort of Sochi. Pompeo said that the United States does not want war with Iran but vowed to keep pressuring Tehran. "We fundamentally do not see a war with Iran," Pompeo told a joint news conference with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov in Sochi. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday dismissed as "fiction" speculation that US President Donald Trump had colluded with Moscow in his election campaign. "It's clear that such insinuations are absolute fiction," he said after talks with his US counterpart Mike Pompeo. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Russia not to interfere in next year's US election and said Moscow needs to show that its purported meddling is over. If Russia interferes in the 2020 election, "it would put our relationship in an even worse place," Pompeo told a joint news conference with foreign minister Sergei Lavrov, calling on Russia "to demonstrate that these types of activities are a thing of the past."

We fundamentally do not see a war with Iran, says Pompeo in joint conference with Russian foreign minister

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday meets US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the highest-level talks between the rival powers in nearly a year as they see if they can make headway on a raft of disagreements from Venezuela to Iran to arms control.

Pompeo will visit Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi less than two weeks after President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-meet-putin-xi-at-g20-summit-in-japan-says-well-be-very-fruitfull-meeting-218514">Donald Trump voiced optimism</a> about improving relations with Moscow during a more than one-hour telephone conversation with the Russian leader.

The renewed diplomacy followed the long-awaited report in the United States by investigator Robert Mueller which found that Russia interfered in the 2016 election but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow, partially lifting a cloud that had hung over the mogul-turned-president for two years.

Pompeo is the highest-ranking US official to see Putin since July when Trump met him in Helsinki and stunned the US political class by appearing to accept the Russian leader's statement at face value that he did not meddle in the US election.

Trump on Monday announced that he expected a "very fruitful meeting" with Putin and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Japan, only for Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov to deny Washington had requested such a meeting and say there were "no agreements so far."

Trump's enthusiasm for courting Putin has little support in Washington, even within his own administration, which has kept up a campaign of pressure including sanctions on Russia over alleged election meddling and Moscow's support for armed separatists in Ukraine.

Pompeo, despite his close relationship with Trump, left little doubt on where he stood in remarks Saturday in California.

Addressing the conservative Claremont Institute, Pompeo said that US policymakers in recent decades had "drifted from realism" and chastised them for believing that "enfolding the likes of China and Russia into a so-called rules-based international order would hasten their domestic evolution towards democracy."

"But we can see now 30 years on, after the end of the Cold War, that the Putin regime slays dissidents in cold blood and invades its neighbours," Pompeo said, three days before he sees the Russian president.

'Frank' talks on Iran

Pompeo cancelled a stop in Moscow scheduled Monday to meet with European foreign ministers in Brussels, who have been uncomfortable with the hawkish direction of the United States, especially on Iran.

The United States has pulled out of a nuclear deal backed by the Europeans, Russia and China and instead has slapped sweeping sanctions on Iran in an all-out effort to curb Tehran's regional clout.

In recent days the United States has ramped up the pressure by deploying to the region an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers, warning vaguely of imminent threats from Iran, which UN inspectors say is complying with the 2015 accord.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said he would have a "frank conversation" with Pompeo on Iran on Tuesday, saying he expected the top US diplomat was pressuring the Europeans to reject Iranian overtures for relief from US sanctions.

"We will try to clarify with Pompeo how the Americans plan to get out of this crisis, which was created by their unilateral decisions," Lavrov told reporters as he met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Sochi on Monday.

Both the United States and Russia hope to make some progress on arms control, with Moscow seeking a five-year extension of the New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits and is set to expire in 2021.

"As before, we are ready to discuss this topic with the Americans," Lavrov said.

But negotiations could be tough, with Trump calling for the treaty to be expanded to include a rising China.

The Trump administration earlier this year pulled out of another key arms control agreement, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, with NATO allies saying a new Russian missile system was in violation.

Seeking stability

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov voiced hope that Pompeo's visit would build on the telephone call with Trump and "somewhat stabilise" the relationship.

But he acknowledged that talks could be "very difficult" on Venezuela.

"The positions of the two sides are diametrically opposed, but we should still use the opportunity to let our position be known to the US administration," the Interfax news agency quoted Ryabkov as saying.

The United States has been trying for more than three months to topple President Nicolas Maduro, a leftist firebrand whose re-election was widely criticised for irregularities, and Pompeo has repeatedly blamed Russia for giving him a lifeline.

Trump, however, contradicted Pompeo after his phone call with Putin, saying the Russian president assured him that Moscow is not involved in Venezuela.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday meets US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the highest-level talks between the rival powers in nearly a year as they see if they can make headway on a raft of disagreements from Venezuela to Iran to arms control.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday meets US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the highest-level talks between the rival powers in nearly a year as they see if they can make headway on a raft of disagreements from Venezuela to Iran to arms control. Pompeo will visit Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi less than two weeks after President Donald Trump voiced optimism about improving relations with Moscow during a more than one-hour telephone conversation with the Russian leader. The renewed diplomacy followed the long-awaited report in the United States by investigator Robert Mueller which found that Russia interfered in the 2016 election but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow, partially lifting a cloud that had hung over the mogul-turned-president for two years. Pompeo is the highest-ranking US official to see Putin since July when Trump met him in Helsinki and stunned the US political class by appearing to accept the Russian leader's statement at face value that he did not meddle in the US election. Trump on Monday announced that he expected a "very fruitful meeting" with Putin and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Japan, only for Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov to deny Washington had requested such a meeting and say there were "no agreements so far." Trump's enthusiasm for courting Putin has little support in Washington, even within his own administration, which has kept up a campaign of pressure including sanctions on Russia over alleged election meddling and Moscow's support for armed separatists in Ukraine. Pompeo, despite his close relationship with Trump, left little doubt on where he stood in remarks Saturday in California. Addressing the conservative Claremont Institute, Pompeo said that US policymakers in recent decades had "drifted from realism" and chastised them for believing that "enfolding the likes of China and Russia into a so-called rules-based international order would hasten their domestic evolution towards democracy." "But we can see now 30 years on, after the end of the Cold War, that the Putin regime slays dissidents in cold blood and invades its neighbours," Pompeo said, three days before he sees the Russian president. 'Frank' talks on Iran Pompeo cancelled a stop in Moscow scheduled Monday to meet with European foreign ministers in Brussels, who have been uncomfortable with the hawkish direction of the United States, especially on Iran. The United States has pulled out of a nuclear deal backed by the Europeans, Russia and China and instead has slapped sweeping sanctions on Iran in an all-out effort to curb Tehran's regional clout. In recent days the United States has ramped up the pressure by deploying to the region an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers, warning vaguely of imminent threats from Iran, which UN inspectors say is complying with the 2015 accord. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said he would have a "frank conversation" with Pompeo on Iran on Tuesday, saying he expected the top US diplomat was pressuring the Europeans to reject Iranian overtures for relief from US sanctions. "We will try to clarify with Pompeo how the Americans plan to get out of this crisis, which was created by their unilateral decisions," Lavrov told reporters as he met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Sochi on Monday. Both the United States and Russia hope to make some progress on arms control, with Moscow seeking a five-year extension of the New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits and is set to expire in 2021. "As before, we are ready to discuss this topic with the Americans," Lavrov said. But negotiations could be tough, with Trump calling for the treaty to be expanded to include a rising China. The Trump administration earlier this year pulled out of another key arms control agreement, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, with NATO allies saying a new Russian missile system was in violation. Seeking stability Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov voiced hope that Pompeo's visit would build on the telephone call with Trump and "somewhat stabilise" the relationship. But he acknowledged that talks could be "very difficult" on Venezuela. "The positions of the two sides are diametrically opposed, but we should still use the opportunity to let our position be known to the US administration," the Interfax news agency quoted Ryabkov as saying. The United States has been trying for more than three months to topple President Nicolas Maduro, a leftist firebrand whose re-election was widely criticised for irregularities, and Pompeo has repeatedly blamed Russia for giving him a lifeline. Trump, however, contradicted Pompeo after his phone call with Putin, saying the Russian president assured him that Moscow is not involved in Venezuela.

US, Russia test tense ties as Mike Pompeo visits Russian President Vladimir Putin

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini, who met privately with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday, said EU member states continued "to fully support the nuclear deal with Iran." Washington has increased its pressure on the European Union to isolate Iran internationally and walk away from the 2015 nuclear deal.

EU to continue to do business with Iran despite sanctions by US

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to visit Brussels on Monday to discuss "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said Sunday.

As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow.

But he will still head to the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi on Tuesday to meet President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the official added just before Pompeo left Washington.

An EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting is scheduled in Brussels on Monday, but the State Department did not offer specific details of Pompeo's revised agenda.

It simply said talks would be held with officials from France, the UK and Germany -- the three European signatories to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

Iran announced on May 8, one year after the US withdrew from the deal, that it was suspending some of its commitments under the agreement.&nbsp;

President Hassan Rouhani issued an ultimatum to the Europeans, threatening that Iran would go further if they fail to deliver sanctions relief to counterbalance US President Donald Trump's renewed assault on the Iranian economy within 60 days.

The European powers rejected that ultimatum.

The US has continued to build pressure on Iran, with Pompeo accusing Tehran of planning "imminent" attacks.

The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran.

Pompeo has already cancelled in recent days trips to Berlin and Greenland to focus on the Iran issue.

In Moscow, Pompeo had been due to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier dedicated to Soviet troops killed in World War II -- an era when Moscow and Washington were allied.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to visit Brussels on Monday to discuss "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said Sunday. As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is to visit Brussels on Monday to discuss "pressing matters" including Iran, a State Department official said Sunday. As a result, the top US diplomat is scrapping a stop expected on Monday in Moscow. But he will still head to the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi on Tuesday to meet President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, the official added just before Pompeo left Washington. An EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting is scheduled in Brussels on Monday, but the State Department did not offer specific details of Pompeo's revised agenda. It simply said talks would be held with officials from France, the UK and Germany -- the three European signatories to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Iran announced on May 8, one year after the US withdrew from the deal, that it was suspending some of its commitments under the agreement. President Hassan Rouhani issued an ultimatum to the Europeans, threatening that Iran would go further if they fail to deliver sanctions relief to counterbalance US President Donald Trump's renewed assault on the Iranian economy within 60 days. The European powers rejected that ultimatum. The US has continued to build pressure on Iran, with Pompeo accusing Tehran of planning "imminent" attacks. The Pentagon announced Friday that it is deploying an amphibious assault ship and a Patriot missile battery to the Middle East to bolster an aircraft carrier force sent to counter alleged threats from Iran. Pompeo has already cancelled in recent days trips to Berlin and Greenland to focus on the Iran issue. In Moscow, Pompeo had been due to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier dedicated to Soviet troops killed in World War II -- an era when Moscow and Washington were allied.

US state secretary Pompeo to visit Brussels Monday to discuss Iran: Official

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt on Monday issued a stark warning of the dangers of conflict erupting "by accident" in the Gulf, as tensions between the United States and Iran soar.

Saudi Arabia said Monday that two of its<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-saudi-tankers-came-under-sabotage-attack-off-uae-no-casualties-218248"> oil tankers were damaged </a>in "sabotage attacks" in the Gulf, with its arch-rival Iran calling for an investigation and warning of "adventurism" by foreign players to disrupt maritime security.

The region is already on edge because of the standoff between Washington and Tehran over the Iran nuclear deal, and Hunt said he would share Britain's concerns with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-iran-standoff-the-sequence-of-events-217608/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

"We are very worried about the risk of a conflict happening by accident with an escalation that is unintended on either side but ends with some kind of conflict," Hunt said as he arrived for a meeting of EU foreign ministers.

"I think what we need is a period of calm, to make sure everyone understands what the other side is thinking and most of all we must make sure we don't end up putting Iran back on the path to denuclearisation, because if Iran becomes a nuclear power its neighbours are likely to want to become nuclear powers.&nbsp;"This is already the most unstable region in the world and it would be a massive step in the wrong direction."

The UAE said on Sunday that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage of the emirate of Fujairah. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said the two tankers suffered "significant damage" but there were no casualties or any oil spill.

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt on Monday issued a stark warning of the dangers of conflict erupting "by accident" in the Gulf, as tensions between the United States and Iran soar.

British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt on Monday issued a stark warning of the dangers of conflict erupting "by accident" in the Gulf, as tensions between the United States and Iran soar. Saudi Arabia said Monday that two of its oil tankers were damaged in "sabotage attacks" in the Gulf, with its arch-rival Iran calling for an investigation and warning of "adventurism" by foreign players to disrupt maritime security. The region is already on edge because of the standoff between Washington and Tehran over the Iran nuclear deal, and Hunt said he would share Britain's concerns with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Brussels on Monday. "We are very worried about the risk of a conflict happening by accident with an escalation that is unintended on either side but ends with some kind of conflict," Hunt said as he arrived for a meeting of EU foreign ministers. "I think what we need is a period of calm, to make sure everyone understands what the other side is thinking and most of all we must make sure we don't end up putting Iran back on the path to denuclearisation, because if Iran becomes a nuclear power its neighbours are likely to want to become nuclear powers. "This is already the most unstable region in the world and it would be a massive step in the wrong direction." The UAE said on Sunday that four commercial vessels of various nationalities had been targeted by acts of sabotage of the emirate of Fujairah. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said the two tankers suffered "significant damage" but there were no casualties or any oil spill.

Worried about risk of conflict happening by accident in Gulf region: UK foreign minister Jeremy Hunt

Mike Pompeo leaves Moscow out of Russia Visit. He is heading to Russia after visit to Brussels

Pompeo leaves Moscow out of Russia Visit

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-rich-poor-divide-widens-but-still-a-worldwide-low-217922">European Union </a>fully supports the international nuclear accord with Iran and wants rival powers to avoid any further escalation over the issue, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said on Monday.

"We will continue to support it as much as we can with all our instruments and all our political will," Mogherini told reporters before a meeting with the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany, who are signatories to the deal.

United States Secretary of State <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-secretary-pompeo-to-visit-brussels-monday-to-discuss-iran-official-218245">Mike Pompeo</a> is also expected to meet EU officials in Brussels on Monday to talk about Iran.

Mogherini said she was informed during the night of Pompeo's arrival to Brussels where EU foreign ministers are gathered for a regular monthly meeting.

"We will be here all day with a busy agenda. So we will see during the day how and if will manage to arrange a meeting. He's always welcome obviously, but there are no precise plans at the moment," Mogherini said.

Pompeo is on his way to the Black Sea resort of Sochi where he plans to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday to discuss Iran.

European countries said last week they wanted to preserve Iran's nuclear deal and rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran, after Iran relaxed restrictions on its nuclear programme and threatened moves that might breach the 2015 international pact.

Iran's move was in response to US sanctions imposed following Donald Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the accord with Tehran a year ago.

The European Union fully supports the international nuclear accord with Iran and wants rival powers to avoid any further escalation over the issue, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said on Monday.

The European Union fully supports the international nuclear accord with Iran and wants rival powers to avoid any further escalation over the issue, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said on Monday. "We will continue to support it as much as we can with all our instruments and all our political will," Mogherini told reporters before a meeting with the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany, who are signatories to the deal. United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also expected to meet EU officials in Brussels on Monday to talk about Iran. Mogherini said she was informed during the night of Pompeo's arrival to Brussels where EU foreign ministers are gathered for a regular monthly meeting. "We will be here all day with a busy agenda. So we will see during the day how and if will manage to arrange a meeting. He's always welcome obviously, but there are no precise plans at the moment," Mogherini said. Pompeo is on his way to the Black Sea resort of Sochi where he plans to meet Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Tuesday to discuss Iran. European countries said last week they wanted to preserve Iran's nuclear deal and rejected "ultimatums" from Tehran, after Iran relaxed restrictions on its nuclear programme and threatened moves that might breach the 2015 international pact. Iran's move was in response to US sanctions imposed following Donald Trump's withdrawal of the United States from the accord with Tehran a year ago.

European Union supports Iran nuclear deal, may talk to US' Pompeo: Foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is heading to Russia with an unusual and thankless task -- standing firm against the rival power even as his boss, President Donald Trump, reaches out to reconcile.

Pompeo will meet Tuesday with Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, in the highest-level US engagement with the Russian leader since a July summit in Helsinki after which Trump faced wide scorn at home for his trustful embrace of the Russian leader.&nbsp;

The top US diplomat's trip comes less than two months after Special Counsel Robert Mueller wound up an investigation that found that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election -- but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow.

After spending the first two years of his presidency under the cloud of Mueller's probe, Trump chatted for more than an hour by telephone with Putin on May 3, in what he hailed as a "very positive" conversation.

Trump said that Putin had assured him that Russia was not involved in Venezuela -- directly contradicting Pompeo and other top officials who for weeks have demanded that Moscow stop backing leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, whom Washington is trying to topple.

Venezuela is only one of a slew of issues where the United States and Russia have clashed.

Others include the Syrian war, arms control commitments and the conflict in Ukraine, where Western powers have been attempting for five years to little avail to end Moscow's support for armed separatists.

Jonathan Katz, a former US official focused on Central and Eastern Europe, believed that Russia was looking to see if the end of Mueller's probe would allow a new beginning with Trump, whom Putin supported over Hillary Clinton in 2016.

"I think this is Moscow testing whether there is a new modus operandi in Washington, (after) the release of the Mueller report," said Katz, now a senior fellow at The German Marshall Fund of the United States.

Despite heading the US government, Trump is a major outlier in Washington, with virtually all senior administration officials including Pompeo and lawmakers across party lines advocating a harder stance on Russia, including sanctions over election interference and its 2014 takeover of Crimea from Ukraine.

For Pompeo, "it's incredibly difficult because the interlocutors on the other side don't know who speaks for the United States," Katz said.

Progress sought on arms control

A State Department official said Pompeo, who will also meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov for the second time in as many weeks, would push for progress in particular in one area -- arms control.

The New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits, is set to expire in 2021 and Trump has called for a broader successor that will include a rising China.

Even Pompeo has acknowledged that those goals may be too optimistic. Another key accord, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, just collapsed, with the United States pulling out over charges that a new Russian missile system violated it.

Despite deep rifts on many hotspots, the State Department official said that Russia and the United States, if not seeing eye-to-eye, had developed "constructive" relationships on Afghanistan and North Korea.

"It is in our interest to have a better relationship with Russia," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

"Where we have concerns, we're going to raise them directly, narrow those differences and find areas where we can cooperate to protect and advance our interests."

But Victoria Nuland, who championed a tough line on Russia as an assistant secretary of state during Barack Obama's administration, voiced doubt on whether hopes for a better relationship could be realized under Putin's increasingly autocratic rule.

She said that a "lack of leadership, unity and consistency" in the United States was the greatest challenge to countering a resurgent Russia.

"What we don't know, and what we have to continue to test, is whether Russian President Putin truly wants to improve relations," she recently testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

"It may well be that his psychology and leadership model are too dependent on an enemy abroad to change course -- and we have to steel ourselves for what may be a very long game that outlasts Putin."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is heading to Russia with an unusual and thankless task -- standing firm against the rival power even as his boss, President Donald Trump, reaches out to reconcile.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is heading to Russia with an unusual and thankless task -- standing firm against the rival power even as his boss, President Donald Trump, reaches out to reconcile. Pompeo will meet Tuesday with Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, in the highest-level US engagement with the Russian leader since a July summit in Helsinki after which Trump faced wide scorn at home for his trustful embrace of the Russian leader. The top US diplomat's trip comes less than two months after Special Counsel Robert Mueller wound up an investigation that found that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential election -- but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow. After spending the first two years of his presidency under the cloud of Mueller's probe, Trump chatted for more than an hour by telephone with Putin on May 3, in what he hailed as a "very positive" conversation. Trump said that Putin had assured him that Russia was not involved in Venezuela -- directly contradicting Pompeo and other top officials who for weeks have demanded that Moscow stop backing leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, whom Washington is trying to topple. Venezuela is only one of a slew of issues where the United States and Russia have clashed. Others include the Syrian war, arms control commitments and the conflict in Ukraine, where Western powers have been attempting for five years to little avail to end Moscow's support for armed separatists. Jonathan Katz, a former US official focused on Central and Eastern Europe, believed that Russia was looking to see if the end of Mueller's probe would allow a new beginning with Trump, whom Putin supported over Hillary Clinton in 2016. "I think this is Moscow testing whether there is a new modus operandi in Washington, (after) the release of the Mueller report," said Katz, now a senior fellow at The German Marshall Fund of the United States. Despite heading the US government, Trump is a major outlier in Washington, with virtually all senior administration officials including Pompeo and lawmakers across party lines advocating a harder stance on Russia, including sanctions over election interference and its 2014 takeover of Crimea from Ukraine. For Pompeo, "it's incredibly difficult because the interlocutors on the other side don't know who speaks for the United States," Katz said. Progress sought on arms control A State Department official said Pompeo, who will also meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov for the second time in as many weeks, would push for progress in particular in one area -- arms control. The New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits, is set to expire in 2021 and Trump has called for a broader successor that will include a rising China. Even Pompeo has acknowledged that those goals may be too optimistic. Another key accord, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, just collapsed, with the United States pulling out over charges that a new Russian missile system violated it. Despite deep rifts on many hotspots, the State Department official said that Russia and the United States, if not seeing eye-to-eye, had developed "constructive" relationships on Afghanistan and North Korea. "It is in our interest to have a better relationship with Russia," the official told reporters on condition of anonymity. "Where we have concerns, we're going to raise them directly, narrow those differences and find areas where we can cooperate to protect and advance our interests." But Victoria Nuland, who championed a tough line on Russia as an assistant secretary of state during Barack Obama's administration, voiced doubt on whether hopes for a better relationship could be realized under Putin's increasingly autocratic rule. She said that a "lack of leadership, unity and consistency" in the United States was the greatest challenge to countering a resurgent Russia. "What we don't know, and what we have to continue to test, is whether Russian President Putin truly wants to improve relations," she recently testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee. "It may well be that his psychology and leadership model are too dependent on an enemy abroad to change course -- and we have to steel ourselves for what may be a very long game that outlasts Putin."

Mike Pompeo heads to Russia as US diplomacy turns schizophrenic

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-pattern-of-aggressive-behaviour-elsewhere-informs-how-it-treats-the-arctic-pompeo-216537">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> abruptly cancelled a visit to Germany on Tuesday hours before he was due to arrive in Berlin, with his spokeswoman citing "pressing issues".

"We look forward to rescheduling this important set of meetings," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said.

"The Secretary looks forward to being in Berlin soon."

She gave no further details or explanation for the sudden change of plans.

Pompeo had been due to meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas later Tuesday.

It was not immediately clear whether he would still travel to Britain on Wednesday, when he was to meet with Prime Minister Theresa May, or on Thursday to Greenland, where he was to complete his European tour.

Pompeo started the trip attending a meeting of ministers of the Arctic Council in the northern Finnish city of Rovaniemi.

Merkel's office referred all queries about the reasons for the cancellation to the US embassy in Berlin, which could not immediately be reached for comment.

The embassy had earlier tweeted the Ortagus remarks.

Merkel has not hidden her differences with US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly taken the unusual step of criticising the close ally, especially over what he has repeatedly called German's insufficient NATO spending.

Berlin and Washington are also at odds over a range of trade issues and the Nord Stream 2 project to build a new gas pipeline between Russia and Germany under the Baltic Sea.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo abruptly cancelled a visit to Germany on Tuesday hours before he was due to arrive in Berlin, with his spokeswoman citing "pressing issues".

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo abruptly cancelled a visit to Germany on Tuesday hours before he was due to arrive in Berlin, with his spokeswoman citing "pressing issues". "We look forward to rescheduling this important set of meetings," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said. "The Secretary looks forward to being in Berlin soon." She gave no further details or explanation for the sudden change of plans. Pompeo had been due to meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas later Tuesday. It was not immediately clear whether he would still travel to Britain on Wednesday, when he was to meet with Prime Minister Theresa May, or on Thursday to Greenland, where he was to complete his European tour. Pompeo started the trip attending a meeting of ministers of the Arctic Council in the northern Finnish city of Rovaniemi. Merkel's office referred all queries about the reasons for the cancellation to the US embassy in Berlin, which could not immediately be reached for comment. The embassy had earlier tweeted the Ortagus remarks. Merkel has not hidden her differences with US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly taken the unusual step of criticising the close ally, especially over what he has repeatedly called German's insufficient NATO spending. Berlin and Washington are also at odds over a range of trade issues and the Nord Stream 2 project to build a new gas pipeline between Russia and Germany under the Baltic Sea.

Pompeo cancels Germany visit due to 'pressing issues': US

Anti-Semitism Has Risen In The U.S. Despite Trump's Pro-Israel Stance. Why Is It So? Trump was the first U.S. President to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital, he even moved the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo calls him a God-send to save Israel from Iran. Despite all these, anti-semitism is on the rise in the U.S. under Trump. Why is it so? Palki decodes

Pompeo: Trump was sent by God to save Israel from Iran

The United States said Friday it would start imposing sanctions over Iranian exports of enriched uranium allowed under a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-putin-discuss-possible-new-nuclear-accord-white-house-215736">nuclear deal </a>rejected by President Donald Trump, even as it granted waivers to allow the accord to survive.

The move comes amid growing Iranian frustration with the nuclear deal, with which UN inspectors say Tehran is complying but which has not led to a promised economic boom, with the Trump administration instead imposing sweeping sanctions.

Under the 2015 deal, which was negotiated under former president Barack Obama and still enjoys strong support among European powers, Iran was limited to keeping 300 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 3.67 per cent -- far below the level needed to build nuclear weapons.

As part of the agreement, Iran was to sell any enriched uranium above that threshold on international markets in return for natural uranium, with Russia a key player.

But in Friday's policy change, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States would start to impose sanctions on anyone involved in the trade of natural for enriched uranium -- as well as in the storage of Iranian heavy water that was in excess of limits.

"The Trump administration continues to hold the Iranian regime accountable for activities that threaten the region's stability and harm the Iranian people. This includes denying Iran any pathway to a nuclear weapon," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said.

At the same time, the United States issued new three-month waivers to allow the continuation of the major parts of the nuclear deal.&nbsp;

In particular, the United States said it will not target the transfer of scrap and spent nuclear fuel out of Iran and will not impose sanctions overwork at Bushehr, the country's only civilian nuclear power station, although it said it may punish any activity that expands the site.

The Trump administration pulled out of the nuclear accord a year ago and instead vowed, "maximum pressure" aimed at curbing the regional role of Iran, arch-rival of US allies Saudi Arabia and Israel.

Some observers believe that the Trump team is trying to goad Iran into breaking the terms of the nuclear deal, thereby causing it to collapse and significantly deepening Tehran's international isolation.

The United States said Friday it would start imposing sanctions over Iranian exports of enriched uranium allowed under a nuclear deal rejected by President Donald Trump, even as it granted waivers to allow the accord to survive.

The United States said Friday it would start imposing sanctions over Iranian exports of enriched uranium allowed under a nuclear deal rejected by President Donald Trump, even as it granted waivers to allow the accord to survive. The move comes amid growing Iranian frustration with the nuclear deal, with which UN inspectors say Tehran is complying but which has not led to a promised economic boom, with the Trump administration instead imposing sweeping sanctions. Under the 2015 deal, which was negotiated under former president Barack Obama and still enjoys strong support among European powers, Iran was limited to keeping 300 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 3.67 per cent -- far below the level needed to build nuclear weapons. As part of the agreement, Iran was to sell any enriched uranium above that threshold on international markets in return for natural uranium, with Russia a key player. But in Friday's policy change, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States would start to impose sanctions on anyone involved in the trade of natural for enriched uranium -- as well as in the storage of Iranian heavy water that was in excess of limits. "The Trump administration continues to hold the Iranian regime accountable for activities that threaten the region's stability and harm the Iranian people. This includes denying Iran any pathway to a nuclear weapon," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said. At the same time, the United States issued new three-month waivers to allow the continuation of the major parts of the nuclear deal. In particular, the United States said it will not target the transfer of scrap and spent nuclear fuel out of Iran and will not impose sanctions overwork at Bushehr, the country's only civilian nuclear power station, although it said it may punish any activity that expands the site. The Trump administration pulled out of the nuclear accord a year ago and instead vowed, "maximum pressure" aimed at curbing the regional role of Iran, arch-rival of US allies Saudi Arabia and Israel. Some observers believe that the Trump team is trying to goad Iran into breaking the terms of the nuclear deal, thereby causing it to collapse and significantly deepening Tehran's international isolation.

US targets Iran uranium but lets nuclear deal stay alive

The designation of Pakistan-based JeM chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-10-years-china-has-done-the-right-thing-white-house-official-on-un-listing-masood-azhar-as-global-terrorist-215194">Masood Azhar</a> as a global terrorist by the UN demonstrates the international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the White House has said.

The UN sanctions committee on the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda on Wednesday announced the designation of Azhar, leader of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/found-no-objection-to-list-azhar-after-studying-revised-materials-china-215122">Jaish-e-Mohammed</a> (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaeda.

The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan.

Reacting to the development, Garrett Marquis, spokesperson of the National Security Council, White House said,&nbsp;"Designating Azhar demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia".

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The US commends the United Nations Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee for the designation of Azhar, the leader of JeM, a UN-designated terrorist group that was responsible for the February 14 terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed over 40 Indian security personnel, Marquis said in a statement.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also welcomed the move and said that it is a victory for American diplomacy and the international community against terrorism.

Pompeo also congratulated the US mission in the UN which took the lead in America's diplomatic effort to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, after China finally lifted its nearly 10-year technical hold on such an effort by India, the United States and other permanent members of the Security Council including Britain and France.

"Congrats to our team @USUN for their work in negotiating JEM's Masood Azhar's #UN designation as a terrorist," Pompeo tweeted.

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Congrats to our team <a href="https://twitter.com/USUN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USUN</a> for their work in negotiating JEM's Masood Azhar's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UN</a> designation as a terrorist. This long-awaited action is a victory for American diplomacy and the international community against terrorism, and an important step towards peace in South Asia.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1123776110003617793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This long-awaited action is a victory for American diplomacy and the international community against terrorism, and an important step towards peace in South Asia," Pompeo said.

Meanwhile, State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said that the JeM has been responsible for numerous terrorist attacks and is a serious threat to regional stability and peace in South Asia.

"The JeM was designated by the United States as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) in 2001 and has been listed by the UN since 2001," she said.

The US also designated Azhar as an SDGT in 2010.

"As JEM's founder and leader, Azhar clearly met the criteria for designation by the UN. This listing requires all the UN member states to implement an asset freeze, a travel ban, and an arms embargo against Azhar. We expect all countries to uphold these obligations," Ortagus said.

Today's designation is an important step in promoting a peaceful and stable South Asia, she said.

"In line with this vision, we appreciate Pakistani Prime Minister Khan's stated commitment that Pakistan, for the sake of its own future, will not allow militant and terrorist groups to operate from its territory," Ortagus said.

The spokesperson said that the US looks forward to further and sustained actions from Pakistan as outlined in its National Action Plan consistent with its international obligations.

The UK has also welcomed the development. A British high commission spokesperson said it is "positive development for the security and stability of the South Asia region."&nbsp;

France was the first country to react on the listing of Masood Azhar on Wednesday calling it "successful realisation" of its efforts.

Azhar was released from prison in exchange for 155 hostages held on an Indian Airlines flight that had been hijacked to Kandahar in 1999. Since then, he is&nbsp;responsible for many terror attacks in India including the 2001 Parliament attack and 2019 Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The designation of Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN demonstrates the international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the White House has said.

The designation of Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN demonstrates the international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the White House has said. The UN sanctions committee on the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda on Wednesday announced the designation of Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaeda. The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan. Reacting to the development, Garrett Marquis, spokesperson of the National Security Council, White House said, "Designating Azhar demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia". × The US commends the United Nations Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee for the designation of Azhar, the leader of JeM, a UN-designated terrorist group that was responsible for the February 14 terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed over 40 Indian security personnel, Marquis said in a statement. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also welcomed the move and said that it is a victory for American diplomacy and the international community against terrorism. Pompeo also congratulated the US mission in the UN which took the lead in America's diplomatic effort to designate Azhar as a global terrorist, after China finally lifted its nearly 10-year technical hold on such an effort by India, the United States and other permanent members of the Security Council including Britain and France. "Congrats to our team @USUN for their work in negotiating JEM's Masood Azhar's #UN designation as a terrorist," Pompeo tweeted. Congrats to our team @USUN for their work in negotiating JEM's Masood Azhar's #UN designation as a terrorist. This long-awaited action is a victory for American diplomacy and the international community against terrorism, and an important step towards peace in South Asia. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) May 2, 2019 × "This long-awaited action is a victory for American diplomacy and the international community against terrorism, and an important step towards peace in South Asia," Pompeo said. Meanwhile, State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said that the JeM has been responsible for numerous terrorist attacks and is a serious threat to regional stability and peace in South Asia. "The JeM was designated by the United States as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) in 2001 and has been listed by the UN since 2001," she said. The US also designated Azhar as an SDGT in 2010. "As JEM's founder and leader, Azhar clearly met the criteria for designation by the UN. This listing requires all the UN member states to implement an asset freeze, a travel ban, and an arms embargo against Azhar. We expect all countries to uphold these obligations," Ortagus said. Today's designation is an important step in promoting a peaceful and stable South Asia, she said. "In line with this vision, we appreciate Pakistani Prime Minister Khan's stated commitment that Pakistan, for the sake of its own future, will not allow militant and terrorist groups to operate from its territory," Ortagus said. The spokesperson said that the US looks forward to further and sustained actions from Pakistan as outlined in its National Action Plan consistent with its international obligations. The UK has also welcomed the development. A British high commission spokesperson said it is "positive development for the security and stability of the South Asia region." France was the first country to react on the listing of Masood Azhar on Wednesday calling it "successful realisation" of its efforts. Azhar was released from prison in exchange for 155 hostages held on an Indian Airlines flight that had been hijacked to Kandahar in 1999. Since then, he is responsible for many terror attacks in India including the 2001 Parliament attack and 2019 Pulwama attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Long awaited action victory for US diplomacy: Mike Pompeo on UNSC listing Azhar as terrorist

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo claimed Tuesday that embattled Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro was preparing to leave the country for Cuba, but was talked out of it by Russia.

Venezuela crisis: Mike Pompeo urges Russia to stop supporting Maduro

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday expressed confidence that trade talks between the United States and China will not be affected by the end of Iran oil waivers this week.

Pompeo warned countries and companies that it would be a costly mistake to violate US&nbsp;sanctions by importing Iranian oil after Wednesday when the waivers for eight importers end.

China, India and Turkey are among Iran's largest oil importers that were granted waivers from US&nbsp;sanctions to allow them time to find alternative supplies.

"We have had lots of talks with China about this issue," Pompeo said at a newsmaker event by The Hill news outlet. "I'm confident that the trade talks will continue and run their natural course."

His comments come as US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin heads to Beijing and said he hopes the two economic powerhouses can finalize a trade deal with two more rounds of talks left..

Pompeo said the United States had worked to find alternative oil supplies to ensure the global oil market is well stocked as oil purchases from Iran are cut.

"We are convinced we can make sure the markets are adequately supplied. We are continuing to work on that," he said.

"Companies that choose to violate the sanctions ... we will pursue and we will ensure they are held accountable for the violations they engage in," he said.

Trump administration official said on Friday that neither a wind-down period nor a short-term waiver on China's oil purchases are being considered.

Under US sanctions law, importers of Iranian oil including China, India and Turkey, could be allowed a wind-down period before getting to zero oil purchases, including a short-term waiver. Any wind-down measures would be different than the 180-day exceptions the Trump administration granted in November to China and seven other importers for significantly reducing oil purchases from Iran, measures set to end in May.

The United States reimposed sanctions in November on exports of Iranian oil after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump last spring unilaterally pulled out of a 2015 accord between Iran and six world powers to curb Tehran’s nuclear program.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday expressed confidence that trade talks between the United States and China will not be affected by the end of Iran oil waivers this week.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday expressed confidence that trade talks between the United States and China will not be affected by the end of Iran oil waivers this week. Pompeo warned countries and companies that it would be a costly mistake to violate US sanctions by importing Iranian oil after Wednesday when the waivers for eight importers end. China, India and Turkey are among Iran's largest oil importers that were granted waivers from US sanctions to allow them time to find alternative supplies. "We have had lots of talks with China about this issue," Pompeo said at a newsmaker event by The Hill news outlet. "I'm confident that the trade talks will continue and run their natural course." His comments come as US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin heads to Beijing and said he hopes the two economic powerhouses can finalize a trade deal with two more rounds of talks left.. Pompeo said the United States had worked to find alternative oil supplies to ensure the global oil market is well stocked as oil purchases from Iran are cut. "We are convinced we can make sure the markets are adequately supplied. We are continuing to work on that," he said. "Companies that choose to violate the sanctions ... we will pursue and we will ensure they are held accountable for the violations they engage in," he said. Trump administration official said on Friday that neither a wind-down period nor a short-term waiver on China's oil purchases are being considered. Under US sanctions law, importers of Iranian oil including China, India and Turkey, could be allowed a wind-down period before getting to zero oil purchases, including a short-term waiver. Any wind-down measures would be different than the 180-day exceptions the Trump administration granted in November to China and seven other importers for significantly reducing oil purchases from Iran, measures set to end in May. The United States reimposed sanctions in November on exports of Iranian oil after US President Donald Trump last spring unilaterally pulled out of a 2015 accord between Iran and six world powers to curb Tehran’s nuclear program.

Mike Pompeo 'confident' China trade talks will not be hurt over Iran oil sanctions

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a television interview on Wednesday there was “every indication” that Sunday’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-attacks-india-has-lost-maximum-citizens-at-least-36-foreigners-killed-213300">bomb attacks</a> in Sri Lanka that killed 359 people were inspired by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cctv-footage-shows-suspected-suicide-bombers-behind-shangri-la-hotel-blasts-213232">Islamic State.</a>

“Every indication is that this was at the very least inspired by ISIS,” Pompeo said in an interview with CBS News, referring to the group by an acronym.

Sources familiar with internal US&nbsp;government reporting on the attacks told Reuters that while investigations are ongoing, U.S. agencies believe the group that carried out the attacks had sympathies and possibly contacts with the Islamic State movement.

US&nbsp;agencies are collecting information on the attackers’ relationship with Islamic State and are trying to determine if there was any involvement in the attacks by what remains of the militant group’s central organization, which scattered following its eviction from territory it controlled in Syria, the sources said.

One of the sources said official reporting supported news reports that the leader of the group that carried out the attacks is known as Mohammed Zahran Hashim and that he is the central unmasked figure in a photo of the alleged attack team issued by an Islamic State publicity outlet.

The source added that investigators believed another person involved in the attacks was Abdul Lathief Jameel Mohammed. The Guardian reported that British counterterrorism investigators believed Mohammed attended a university in southeast England from 2006 to 2007.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a television interview on Wednesday there was “every indication” that Sunday’s bomb attacks in Sri Lanka that killed 359 people were inspired by Islamic State.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a television interview on Wednesday there was “every indication” that Sunday’s bomb attacks in Sri Lanka that killed 359 people were inspired by Islamic State. “Every indication is that this was at the very least inspired by ISIS,” Pompeo said in an interview with CBS News, referring to the group by an acronym. Sources familiar with internal US government reporting on the attacks told Reuters that while investigations are ongoing, U.S. agencies believe the group that carried out the attacks had sympathies and possibly contacts with the Islamic State movement. US agencies are collecting information on the attackers’ relationship with Islamic State and are trying to determine if there was any involvement in the attacks by what remains of the militant group’s central organization, which scattered following its eviction from territory it controlled in Syria, the sources said. One of the sources said official reporting supported news reports that the leader of the group that carried out the attacks is known as Mohammed Zahran Hashim and that he is the central unmasked figure in a photo of the alleged attack team issued by an Islamic State publicity outlet. The source added that investigators believed another person involved in the attacks was Abdul Lathief Jameel Mohammed. The Guardian reported that British counterterrorism investigators believed Mohammed attended a university in southeast England from 2006 to 2007.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says 'every indication' Islamic State-inspired Sri Lanka attacks: CBS

The US envoy negotiating with the Taliban has returned on a marathon trip for talks, despite disappointment after the militants failed to meet with the Afghan government, the State Department said Monday.

Zalmay Khalilzad left Sunday on a journey that will run through May 11 and take him both to Afghanistan and Qatar, the usual venue for talks with the Taliban.

In the Qatari capital Doha, "he will continue to press forward on negotiations with the Taliban to reach a consensus on core national security issues, and urge their participation in inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue," a State Department statement said, without directly confirming he would meet again with the Taliban.

Despite several rounds of talks with Khalilzad, the Taliban have refused to negotiate with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's internationally recognized government.

Hopes for a breakthrough last weekend were dashed when a dialogue planned between the Taliban and Afghan officials in Doha collapsed at the last minute.

Ghani had announced a delegation of some 250 people from all walks of Afghan life, including government figures, but the Taliban rejected the lengthy list, saying the meeting was "not an invitation to some wedding or other party at a hotel in Kabul."&nbsp;

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment over the impasse during a call on Saturday with Ghani.

Pompeo "encouraged all sides to seize the moment and reach an understanding on participants, so that an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue can be convened in Doha as soon as possible," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said.

President Donald Trump is eager to reach a solution to end the longest-ever US war, which dislodged the Taliban following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The Taliban's political spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP that the upcoming talks would focus on a timetable for pulling all foreign forces from Afghanistan.

Khalilzad on his trip will also visit four other countries with deep interests in Afghanistan -- Pakistan, India, Russia and Britain.&nbsp;

The US envoy negotiating with the Taliban has returned on a marathon trip for talks, despite disappointment after the militants failed to meet with the Afghan government, the State Department said Monday.

The US envoy negotiating with the Taliban has returned on a marathon trip for talks, despite disappointment after the militants failed to meet with the Afghan government, the State Department said Monday. Zalmay Khalilzad left Sunday on a journey that will run through May 11 and take him both to Afghanistan and Qatar, the usual venue for talks with the Taliban. In the Qatari capital Doha, "he will continue to press forward on negotiations with the Taliban to reach a consensus on core national security issues, and urge their participation in inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue," a State Department statement said, without directly confirming he would meet again with the Taliban. Despite several rounds of talks with Khalilzad, the Taliban have refused to negotiate with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's internationally recognized government. Hopes for a breakthrough last weekend were dashed when a dialogue planned between the Taliban and Afghan officials in Doha collapsed at the last minute. Ghani had announced a delegation of some 250 people from all walks of Afghan life, including government figures, but the Taliban rejected the lengthy list, saying the meeting was "not an invitation to some wedding or other party at a hotel in Kabul." Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced disappointment over the impasse during a call on Saturday with Ghani. Pompeo "encouraged all sides to seize the moment and reach an understanding on participants, so that an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue can be convened in Doha as soon as possible," State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said. President Donald Trump is eager to reach a solution to end the longest-ever US war, which dislodged the Taliban following the September 11, 2001 attacks. The Taliban's political spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP that the upcoming talks would focus on a timetable for pulling all foreign forces from Afghanistan. Khalilzad on his trip will also visit four other countries with deep interests in Afghanistan -- Pakistan, India, Russia and Britain.

US envoy returns after Taliban-Afghan talks scuttled

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday (April 22) called for those behind the deadly attacks in Sri Lanka to be brought to justice, saying "this is America's fight too,"

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks on Sri Lanka massacre

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US state secretary Pompeo to visit Brussels Monday to discuss Iran: Official

Worried about risk of conflict happening by accident in Gulf region: UK foreign minister Jeremy Hunt

Pompeo leaves Moscow out of Russia Visit

European Union supports Iran nuclear deal, may talk to US' Pompeo: Foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini

Mike Pompeo heads to Russia as US diplomacy turns schizophrenic

Venezuelan President hits out at US secretary of state

Report: Iran to reduce commitments to 2015 Nuclear deal

Secretary of State Pompeo Makes Surprise Trip to Iraq

WION Global Round-up: Niger fuel tanker explosion kills at least 58 people

Pompeo cancels Germany visit due to 'pressing issues': US