US state department spokesman Ned Price said, "We are close to a possible deal, but we're not there yet. I want to be clear that an agreement is neither imminent nor is it certain."

US says less optimistic about reaching nuclear deal with Iran

Washington said Wednesday it was "close" to a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;on reviving a 2015 pact that saw Western powers provide sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on&nbsp;Tehran's&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;programme, the latest sign of advancement following prolonged deadlock.

Days after Russian demands seemed to jeopardize talks in Vienna over restoring the pact, this week has seen multiple positive signals that an accord may at last be within reach, including the release of two British Iranians Wednesday after years of detention in&nbsp;Iran, and word that outstanding issues have narrowed to just two.

The negotiations began last April between Britain, China, France, Germany,&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and Russia, with the United States taking part indirectly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-talks-of-remaining-two-issues-to-revive-nuclear-deal-462988">Iran talks of remaining 'two issues' to revive nuclear deal</a>

Now a successful resolution appears more viable than at any point in years.

"We are&nbsp;close&nbsp;to a possible&nbsp;deal, but we're not there yet," said State Department spokesman Ned Price. "We do think the remaining issues can be bridged."

Speaking to reporters, Price declined to confirm&nbsp;Tehran's claim that there were just a pair of final issues to be sorted out, down from four, before agreeing to restore the six-party Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) which aimed to prevent&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;from developing&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons.

But he said the issues are surmountable, although the 11-month-old talks "are at a very delicate stage."

"There is little time remaining given the&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;advancements that&nbsp;Tehran&nbsp;has made" toward developing&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapons that would undermine any agreement, he said.

The EU diplomat chairing the Vienna talks, Enrique Mora, told reporters last week that delegations were down to negotiating the footnotes of the text, but progress stalled when Moscow demanded guarantees that Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine would not affect its trade with&nbsp;Iran.

However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated Tuesday that Russia had received "written guarantees" from Washington.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tehran-warned-iraq-often-about-threats-posed-to-iran-foreign-ministry-462111">Tehran warned Iraq often about threats posed to Iran: Foreign ministry</a>

Relieved

That news was followed Wednesday by&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;releasing two British-Iranians, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori, taken as another sign of diplomatic thaw.&nbsp;

"I'm relieved that the problems were solved" allowing Zaghari-Ratcliffe's release, her husband Richard Ratcliffe told AFP at the family home. "The first thing she always wanted to do was me make her a cup of tea."

UK lawmaker Tulip Siddiq, who represents the north London district where Zaghari-Ratcliffe's family lives, tweeted a photo of her constituent smiling on board a plane.

"It's been 6 long years -- and I can't believe I can FINALLY share this photo," she wrote.

The increasingly positive signs have led some to hope the revival of the 2015&nbsp;deal&nbsp;may be just days away, with one diplomatic source saying the process was on "the right track".

However, the same source warned that "we have to be cautious".

With good reason: negotiations over&nbsp;Iran's&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;programme have been littered with missed deadlines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-foiled-sabotage-by-an-israeli-recruited-network-at-a-nuclear-facility-462400">Iran says it foiled sabotage by an Israeli-recruited network at a nuclear facility</a>

The&nbsp;deal&nbsp;began to fall apart in 2018 when then-US president Donald Trump dramatically withdrew from it and went on to reimpose swinging economic sanctions on&nbsp;Iran.

That led&nbsp;Tehran&nbsp;to exceed the limits on its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;activity laid down in the&nbsp;deal.

Iran&nbsp;said Wednesday there were two remaining sticking points in Vienna, including an "economic guarantee" in case a future US administration repeats Trump's abrogation.

Another source&nbsp;close&nbsp;to the talks said the other issue was the status of&nbsp;Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guards, which Washington has branded a terrorist organization.

Too big to fail

According to analyst Henry Rome from the Eurasia Group, these problems are "unlikely to prove insurmountable".&nbsp;

"Both the US and&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;want a&nbsp;deal, and the latter probably used some diplomatic capital to persuade Russia to back off its confrontational stance," Rome added.

"It is now clear that Russia's tactical gambit to leverage the&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;deal&nbsp;to punch a hole in western sanctions regime over the crisis in Ukraine&nbsp;did not work," said Ali Vaez from the International Crisis Group.

Too much energy and political capital have been expended, and the&nbsp;deal&nbsp;"is now too big to fail," Vaez said.

As ever with the talks, there is always a possibility of last-minute complications.

"There may yet be some theatrics, with&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;trying to leverage high oil prices to win several additional concessions," said Rome.

In addition, on Wednesday the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency issued a report giving fresh details of advances in&nbsp;Iran's production of uranium metal, which could bedevil implementation of a&nbsp;deal.

Watch |&nbsp;West warns Russia over Iran Nuclear Deal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-warns-russia-over-iran-nuclear-deal-460415/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Washington said Wednesday it was "close" to a deal with Iran on reviving a 2015 pact that saw Western powers provide sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on Tehran's nuclear programme, the latest sign of advancement following prolonged deadlock.

Washington said Wednesday it was "close" to a deal with Iran on reviving a 2015 pact that saw Western powers provide sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on Tehran's nuclear programme, the latest sign of advancement following prolonged deadlock. Days after Russian demands seemed to jeopardize talks in Vienna over restoring the pact, this week has seen multiple positive signals that an accord may at last be within reach, including the release of two British Iranians Wednesday after years of detention in Iran, and word that outstanding issues have narrowed to just two. The negotiations began last April between Britain, China, France, Germany, Iran and Russia, with the United States taking part indirectly. Also read | Iran talks of remaining 'two issues' to revive nuclear deal Now a successful resolution appears more viable than at any point in years. "We are close to a possible deal, but we're not there yet," said State Department spokesman Ned Price. "We do think the remaining issues can be bridged." Speaking to reporters, Price declined to confirm Tehran's claim that there were just a pair of final issues to be sorted out, down from four, before agreeing to restore the six-party Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) which aimed to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. But he said the issues are surmountable, although the 11-month-old talks "are at a very delicate stage." "There is little time remaining given the nuclear advancements that Tehran has made" toward developing nuclear weapons that would undermine any agreement, he said. The EU diplomat chairing the Vienna talks, Enrique Mora, told reporters last week that delegations were down to negotiating the footnotes of the text, but progress stalled when Moscow demanded guarantees that Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine would not affect its trade with Iran. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated Tuesday that Russia had received "written guarantees" from Washington. Also read | Tehran warned Iraq often about threats posed to Iran: Foreign ministry Relieved That news was followed Wednesday by Iran releasing two British-Iranians, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori, taken as another sign of diplomatic thaw. "I'm relieved that the problems were solved" allowing Zaghari-Ratcliffe's release, her husband Richard Ratcliffe told AFP at the family home. "The first thing she always wanted to do was me make her a cup of tea." UK lawmaker Tulip Siddiq, who represents the north London district where Zaghari-Ratcliffe's family lives, tweeted a photo of her constituent smiling on board a plane. "It's been 6 long years -- and I can't believe I can FINALLY share this photo," she wrote. The increasingly positive signs have led some to hope the revival of the 2015 deal may be just days away, with one diplomatic source saying the process was on "the right track". However, the same source warned that "we have to be cautious". With good reason: negotiations over Iran's nuclear programme have been littered with missed deadlines. Also read | Iran says it foiled sabotage by an Israeli-recruited network at a nuclear facility The deal began to fall apart in 2018 when then-US president Donald Trump dramatically withdrew from it and went on to reimpose swinging economic sanctions on Iran. That led Tehran to exceed the limits on its nuclear activity laid down in the deal. Iran said Wednesday there were two remaining sticking points in Vienna, including an "economic guarantee" in case a future US administration repeats Trump's abrogation. Another source close to the talks said the other issue was the status of Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guards, which Washington has branded a terrorist organization. Too big to fail According to analyst Henry Rome from the Eurasia Group, these problems are "unlikely to prove insurmountable". "Both the US and Iran want a deal, and the latter probably used some diplomatic capital to persuade Russia to back off its confrontational stance," Rome added. "It is now clear that Russia's tactical gambit to leverage the Iran nuclear deal to punch a hole in western sanctions regime over the crisis in Ukraine did not work," said Ali Vaez from the International Crisis Group. Too much energy and political capital have been expended, and the deal "is now too big to fail," Vaez said. As ever with the talks, there is always a possibility of last-minute complications. "There may yet be some theatrics, with Iran trying to leverage high oil prices to win several additional concessions," said Rome. In addition, on Wednesday the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency issued a report giving fresh details of advances in Iran's production of uranium metal, which could bedevil implementation of a deal. Watch | West warns Russia over Iran Nuclear Deal

Iran nuclear deal 'close', Tehran frees captives as obstacles narrow

Tehran&nbsp;had&nbsp;warned&nbsp;Iraqi authorities many times that its territory should not be used by third parties to conduct attacks against&nbsp;Iran,&nbsp;Foreign&nbsp;Ministry&nbsp;Spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Monday.

He was speaking one day after&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;attacked Erbil in northern&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;with a dozen ballistic missiles in an unprecedented assault on the capital of the autonomous&nbsp;Iraqi Kurdish region that appeared to target the United States and its allies.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for the missile assault.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-revolutionary-guard-claims-responsibility-for-missile-strike-on-iraqs-kurdish-capital-461951">Iran's Revolutionary Guard claims responsibility for missile strike on Iraq's Kurdish capital</a>

Iranian state media said the Revolutionary Guards Corps had launched the attack against Israeli "strategic centres" in Erbil, suggesting it was revenge for recent Israeli air strikes that killed&nbsp;Iranian military personnel in Syria.

"The central government of&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;has the responsibility to ensure that its territory is not used as a base for attacks by third parties against&nbsp;Iran," said Khatibzadeh.

"Several times in the past,&nbsp;Iraq's territory was used against&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;by third parties including terrorist groups such as Kurdish militants, the United States and the Zionist entity," he added, referring to Israel.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-to-host-another-round-of-iran-saudi-arabia-talks-ministry-461841">&nbsp;Iraq to host another round of Iran-Saudi Arabia talks: Ministry</a>

The&nbsp;Iraqi Kurdish regional government said the attack only targeted civilian residential areas, not sites belonging to&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;countries, and called on the international community to carry out an investigation.

Sunday's attack came as talks to revive the 2015&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;nuclear deal face the prospect of collapse after a last-minute Russian demand forced world powers to pause negotiations for an undetermined time despite having a largely completed text.

Watch |&nbsp;US makes 'new demands' in nuclear talks, accuses Iran of trying to complicate efforts | World News

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-makes-new-demands-in-nuclear-talks-accuses-iran-of-trying-to-complicate-efforts-world-news-461324/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In another setback for regional diplomacy,&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;said on Sunday it was suspending a fifth round of talks due this week in Baghdad with regional rival Saudi Arabia.

Tehran had warned Iraqi authorities many times that its territory should not be used by third parties to conduct attacks against Iran, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Monday.

Tehran had warned Iraqi authorities many times that its territory should not be used by third parties to conduct attacks against Iran, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Monday. He was speaking one day after Iran attacked Erbil in northern Iraq with a dozen ballistic missiles in an unprecedented assault on the capital of the autonomous Iraqi Kurdish region that appeared to target the United States and its allies. Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for the missile assault. Also read | Iran's Revolutionary Guard claims responsibility for missile strike on Iraq's Kurdish capital Iranian state media said the Revolutionary Guards Corps had launched the attack against Israeli "strategic centres" in Erbil, suggesting it was revenge for recent Israeli air strikes that killed Iranian military personnel in Syria. "The central government of Iraq has the responsibility to ensure that its territory is not used as a base for attacks by third parties against Iran," said Khatibzadeh. "Several times in the past, Iraq's territory was used against Iran by third parties including terrorist groups such as Kurdish militants, the United States and the Zionist entity," he added, referring to Israel. Also read | Iraq to host another round of Iran-Saudi Arabia talks: Ministry The Iraqi Kurdish regional government said the attack only targeted civilian residential areas, not sites belonging to foreign countries, and called on the international community to carry out an investigation. Sunday's attack came as talks to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal face the prospect of collapse after a last-minute Russian demand forced world powers to pause negotiations for an undetermined time despite having a largely completed text. Watch | US makes 'new demands' in nuclear talks, accuses Iran of trying to complicate efforts | World News In another setback for regional diplomacy, Iran said on Sunday it was suspending a fifth round of talks due this week in Baghdad with regional rival Saudi Arabia.

Tehran warned Iraq often about threats posed to Iran: Foreign ministry

Will Russia's invasion of Ukraine damage Iran Nuclear deal talks? IAEA presented queries to Tehran as the Nuclear agency chief reaches Iran.

IAEA presents queries to Tehran as Nuclear agency chief reaches Iran

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;watchdog's chief will hold talks with Iranian officials in Tehran on Saturday in the hopes of salvaging a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers.

The visit by International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi is seen as critical to clinching a return to the&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;agreement, and comes parallel to negotiations in the Austrian capital.

"This is a critical time but a positive outcome for everyone is possible," Grossi tweeted Friday before leaving for Iran, where he is slated to meet with the head of the country's Atomic Energy Organisation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-south-koreas-polls-kim-jong-led-north-holds-2022s-ninth-missile-test-459144">Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s ninth missile test</a>

The 2015 deal was aimed at guaranteeing that Tehran could not develop a&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapon -- something it has always denied wanting to do.

The next few days are widely seen as a crunch point for negotiations.

"We are close. E3 negotiators leaving Vienna briefly to update ministers on state of play," head of the British delegation Stephanie Al-Qaq said Friday, referring to negotiators from Britain, France and Germany.

She added that they were "ready to return soon".

The three European countries, along with counterparts from China, Iran and Russia, have been taking part in the latest round of talks in the Austrian capital since late November, with the United States participating indirectly.

Grossi had vowed earlier this week that the IAEA would "never abandon" its attempts to get Iran to clarify the past presence of&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;material at several undeclared sites.

Iran has said the closure of the probe is necessary to clinch a deal.

Grossi is expected to hold a press conference on his return to Vienna.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-says-iran-nuclear-deal-close-european-diplomats-to-consult-with-ministers-459036">UK says Iran nuclear deal 'close', European diplomats to consult with ministers</a>

Ready to go to Vienna

The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed in 2015, secured sanctions relief for Iran in return for strict curbs on its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;program.

It began unravelling when then US president Donald Trump withdrew in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, prompting Iran to start disregarding the limits on its&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;activity.

The coming days are seen as so pivotal by the West because of the rate Iran is making&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;advances.

Its stockpile of enriched uranium has now reached more than 15 times the limit set out in the 2015 accord, the&nbsp;UN's IAEA&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;watchdog said earlier this week.

Several observers believe that the West could leave the negotiating table and chalk the deal up to a failure if a compromise is not reached by this weekend.

The EU has been chairing&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;deal negotiations and the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Friday he "hopes to have results this weekend" to "resurrect the agreement".&nbsp;

He stressed that there was "still work ongoing".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-clears-law-against-fake-news-on-army-bbc-cnn-others-suspend-operations-459126">Putin clears law against ‘fake news’ on army; BBC, CNN, others suspend operations</a>

Earlier Friday, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said he was prepared to travel to the Austrian capital if a deal is reached.

"I am ready to go to Vienna when the Western sides accept our remaining red lines," he said in a phone call with Borrell.

While Amir-Abdollahian did not define the "red lines", Iran has repeatedly demanded the right to verify the removal of sanctions and for guarantees the US will not repeat its withdrawal from the agreement.

Watch |&nbsp;The nuclear threat in Ukraine: UN atomic watchdog condemns Russia after fire incident

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-nuclear-threat-in-ukraine-un-atomic-watchdog-condemns-russia-after-fire-incident-458818/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Thursday, US State Department deputy spokeswoman Jalina Porter said negotiators were "close to a possible deal", but that "a number of difficult issues" remained unresolved.

However, "if Iran shows seriousness, we can and should reach an understanding of mutual return to full implementation of the JCPOA within days", she added.

The UN nuclear watchdog's chief will hold talks with Iranian officials in Tehran on Saturday in the hopes of salvaging a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers.

The UN nuclear watchdog's chief will hold talks with Iranian officials in Tehran on Saturday in the hopes of salvaging a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers. The visit by International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi is seen as critical to clinching a return to the nuclear agreement, and comes parallel to negotiations in the Austrian capital. "This is a critical time but a positive outcome for everyone is possible," Grossi tweeted Friday before leaving for Iran, where he is slated to meet with the head of the country's Atomic Energy Organisation. Also read | Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s ninth missile test The 2015 deal was aimed at guaranteeing that Tehran could not develop a nuclear weapon -- something it has always denied wanting to do. The next few days are widely seen as a crunch point for negotiations. "We are close. E3 negotiators leaving Vienna briefly to update ministers on state of play," head of the British delegation Stephanie Al-Qaq said Friday, referring to negotiators from Britain, France and Germany. She added that they were "ready to return soon". The three European countries, along with counterparts from China, Iran and Russia, have been taking part in the latest round of talks in the Austrian capital since late November, with the United States participating indirectly. Grossi had vowed earlier this week that the IAEA would "never abandon" its attempts to get Iran to clarify the past presence of nuclear material at several undeclared sites. Iran has said the closure of the probe is necessary to clinch a deal. Grossi is expected to hold a press conference on his return to Vienna. Also read | UK says Iran nuclear deal 'close', European diplomats to consult with ministers Ready to go to Vienna The so-called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, signed in 2015, secured sanctions relief for Iran in return for strict curbs on its nuclear program. It began unravelling when then US president Donald Trump withdrew in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, prompting Iran to start disregarding the limits on its nuclear activity. The coming days are seen as so pivotal by the West because of the rate Iran is making nuclear advances. Its stockpile of enriched uranium has now reached more than 15 times the limit set out in the 2015 accord, the UN's IAEA nuclear watchdog said earlier this week. Several observers believe that the West could leave the negotiating table and chalk the deal up to a failure if a compromise is not reached by this weekend. The EU has been chairing nuclear deal negotiations and the bloc's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Friday he "hopes to have results this weekend" to "resurrect the agreement". He stressed that there was "still work ongoing". Also read | Putin clears law against ‘fake news’ on army; BBC, CNN, others suspend operations Earlier Friday, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said he was prepared to travel to the Austrian capital if a deal is reached. "I am ready to go to Vienna when the Western sides accept our remaining red lines," he said in a phone call with Borrell. While Amir-Abdollahian did not define the "red lines", Iran has repeatedly demanded the right to verify the removal of sanctions and for guarantees the US will not repeat its withdrawal from the agreement. Watch | The nuclear threat in Ukraine: UN atomic watchdog condemns Russia after fire incident On Thursday, US State Department deputy spokeswoman Jalina Porter said negotiators were "close to a possible deal", but that "a number of difficult issues" remained unresolved. However, "if Iran shows seriousness, we can and should reach an understanding of mutual return to full implementation of the JCPOA within days", she added.

UN nuclear watchdog chief in Tehran for talks as UK says deal 'close'

Iran's&nbsp;Supreme Leader Ali&nbsp;Khamenei&nbsp;described&nbsp;homosexuality&nbsp;as part of the "moral deprivation" widespread in Western civilisation, during a televised speech on Tuesday.

"There is severe moral deprivation in the world today such as&nbsp;homosexuality&nbsp;and things that one cannot bring oneself to even talk about. Some have rightly called Western civilisation a new age of ignorance,"&nbsp;Khamenei&nbsp;said.

Western rights groups have often criticised Iran, where homosexual acts among men can be punished by the death penalty.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-deal-talks-iran-says-west-still-not-making-political-decisions-457494">Nuclear deal talks: Iran says West still not making 'political decisions'</a>&nbsp;

Tehran has dismissed the criticism as baseless and due to a lack of understanding of its Islamic laws.

"The same moral vices of the age of ignorance (in pre-Islamic Arabia) exist today in the so-called civilised Western world in an organised and more widespread way. Life in Western civilisation is based on greed, and money is the basis of all Western values,"&nbsp;Khamenei&nbsp;said.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei described homosexuality as part of the "moral deprivation" widespread in Western civilisation, during a televised speech on Tuesday.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei described homosexuality as part of the "moral deprivation" widespread in Western civilisation, during a televised speech on Tuesday. "There is severe moral deprivation in the world today such as homosexuality and things that one cannot bring oneself to even talk about. Some have rightly called Western civilisation a new age of ignorance," Khamenei said. Western rights groups have often criticised Iran, where homosexual acts among men can be punished by the death penalty. Also read | Nuclear deal talks: Iran says West still not making 'political decisions' Tehran has dismissed the criticism as baseless and due to a lack of understanding of its Islamic laws. "The same moral vices of the age of ignorance (in pre-Islamic Arabia) exist today in the so-called civilised Western world in an organised and more widespread way. Life in Western civilisation is based on greed, and money is the basis of all Western values," Khamenei said.

Iran's Khamenei says homosexuality example of West's immorality

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has warned the West against challenging Tehran's red lines in the Vienna talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal,. 
 
Amir Abdollahian made the remarks during a meeting with his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg on Saturday on the sidelines of the ongoing 58th Munich Security Conference here, reports Xinhua news agency. 
 
"Tehran's definite choice is to respect national interests and not to cross the logical and legitimate red lines of Iran," Abdollahian said. 
 
The Western parties to the deal must make their final decision on whether to end their current "economic terrorism and inaction", he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-says-iran-nuclear-deal-within-grasp-predicts-a-major-crisis-if-agreement-isnt-reached-453893">France says Iran nuclear deal 'within grasp', predicts a major crisis if agreement isn't reached</a> 
 
He also said that Iran favours the "quality" of any possible deal in the ongoing talks in Vienna. 
 
Rejecting some comments of "setting fake deadlines", Amir Abdollahian said that Iran believes the "quality" of an agreement should be assessed within the context of time. 
 
"If the legitimate demands of Tehran are respected today, an agreement can be reached in Vienna. In these last steps, it is important for the other party not to make miscalculations and not to drag the negotiations to the media space," he added. 
 
The top diplomat further emphasised his country's determination for "a good agreement", expressing the hope that parties to the negotiations can play an effective role in securing Iran`s "legitimate rights".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/454114">Iran supreme leader Khamenei urges nuclear energy progress amid talks</a> 
 
On Friday, Abdollahian said the talks between Iran and the world powers in Vienna are "very close to a good and accessible agreement". 
 
Former US President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in May 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran, which prompted the latter to drop some of its nuclear commitments one year later and advance its halted nuclear programs.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Iran nuclear deal 'closer than ever'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-iran-nuclear-deal-closer-than-ever-454461/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Since April 2021, eight rounds of talks have been held in the Austrian capital between Iran and the remaining parties, namely the UK, China, France, Russia plus Germany, with the United States indirectly involved in the talks, to revive the landmark deal.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has warned the West against challenging Tehran's red lines in the Vienna talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal,.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian has warned the West against challenging Tehran's red lines in the Vienna talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal,. Amir Abdollahian made the remarks during a meeting with his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg on Saturday on the sidelines of the ongoing 58th Munich Security Conference here, reports Xinhua news agency. "Tehran's definite choice is to respect national interests and not to cross the logical and legitimate red lines of Iran," Abdollahian said. The Western parties to the deal must make their final decision on whether to end their current "economic terrorism and inaction", he added. Also read | France says Iran nuclear deal 'within grasp', predicts a major crisis if agreement isn't reached He also said that Iran favours the "quality" of any possible deal in the ongoing talks in Vienna. Rejecting some comments of "setting fake deadlines", Amir Abdollahian said that Iran believes the "quality" of an agreement should be assessed within the context of time. "If the legitimate demands of Tehran are respected today, an agreement can be reached in Vienna. In these last steps, it is important for the other party not to make miscalculations and not to drag the negotiations to the media space," he added. The top diplomat further emphasised his country's determination for "a good agreement", expressing the hope that parties to the negotiations can play an effective role in securing Iran`s "legitimate rights". Also read | Iran supreme leader Khamenei urges nuclear energy progress amid talks On Friday, Abdollahian said the talks between Iran and the world powers in Vienna are "very close to a good and accessible agreement". Former US President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in May 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran, which prompted the latter to drop some of its nuclear commitments one year later and advance its halted nuclear programs. Watch | Gravitas: Iran nuclear deal 'closer than ever' Since April 2021, eight rounds of talks have been held in the Austrian capital between Iran and the remaining parties, namely the UK, China, France, Russia plus Germany, with the United States indirectly involved in the talks, to revive the landmark deal.

Iran warns West not to challenge red lines in Vienna nuke talks

Iran's top negotiator says that a nuclear deal is 'closer than ever'. But Tehran is holding out until the US Congress releases a political statement backing the agreement. Will Republicans sink Joe Biden's west Asian project? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Iran nuclear deal 'closer than ever'

Days after the talks on the 2015 nuclear agreement began in Vienna, Tehran on Wednesday unveiled a long-range ballistic missile capable of striking&nbsp;the US bases in the region and also targeting&nbsp;inside archenemy Israel.

The state TV reported that the missile, called Khaibar-buster, uses solid fuel and is capable of penetrating into&nbsp;missile shields with high manoeuvrability during the landing stage.

The new missile has a range of 1,450 kilometres (900 miles). Notably, Israel’s closest point to Iran is around 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away.

Reportedly, it also has missiles that can travel up to 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles).

The name Khaibar-buster has a reference to a Jewish castle in present-day Saudi Arabia that was overrun by Muslim warriors in the early days of Islam in the 7th century.

The missile is propelled by solid fuel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-talks-us-hopeful-of-building-on-negotiations-progress-this-week-442369">Iran nuclear talks: US hopeful of building on negotiations progress&nbsp;</a>

The modified design of Kheibarshekan has reduced its weight by a third compared to the similar missiles, while its preparation time for launch has decreased to one-sixth of the ordinary ones, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported.

Among its other features include its agility and high velocity in hitting the targets.

“This long-range missile is domestically manufactured by the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC)… It has high accuracy and is propelled by solid fuel and is capable of penetrating missile shields,” Iranian state media reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-research-cargos-into-space-amid-stalled-nuclear-talks-441140">Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks</a>

Meanwhile, the 8th round of the 2015 nuclear talks, which was halted for more than a week to allow delegations to head back to their capitals for political consultations, resumed on Tuesday in Vienna.

The Iranian government has refused to talk directly to the United States, which unilaterally abandoned the deal&nbsp;in 2018 and reimposed&nbsp;harsh sanctions&nbsp;on Iran.

The Vienna talks are currently being facilitated by European officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after the talks on the 2015 nuclear agreement began in Vienna, Tehran on Wednesday unveiled a long-range ballistic missile capable of striking the US bases in the region and also targeting inside archenemy Israel.

Days after the talks on the 2015 nuclear agreement began in Vienna, Tehran on Wednesday unveiled a long-range ballistic missile capable of striking the US bases in the region and also targeting inside archenemy Israel. The state TV reported that the missile, called Khaibar-buster, uses solid fuel and is capable of penetrating into missile shields with high manoeuvrability during the landing stage. The new missile has a range of 1,450 kilometres (900 miles). Notably, Israel’s closest point to Iran is around 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) away. Reportedly, it also has missiles that can travel up to 2,000 kilometres (1,250 miles). The name Khaibar-buster has a reference to a Jewish castle in present-day Saudi Arabia that was overrun by Muslim warriors in the early days of Islam in the 7th century. The missile is propelled by solid fuel. Also read | Iran nuclear talks: US hopeful of building on negotiations progress The modified design of Kheibarshekan has reduced its weight by a third compared to the similar missiles, while its preparation time for launch has decreased to one-sixth of the ordinary ones, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported. Among its other features include its agility and high velocity in hitting the targets. “This long-range missile is domestically manufactured by the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC)… It has high accuracy and is propelled by solid fuel and is capable of penetrating missile shields,” Iranian state media reported. Also read | Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks Meanwhile, the 8th round of the 2015 nuclear talks, which was halted for more than a week to allow delegations to head back to their capitals for political consultations, resumed on Tuesday in Vienna. The Iranian government has refused to talk directly to the United States, which unilaterally abandoned the deal in 2018 and reimposed harsh sanctions on Iran. The Vienna talks are currently being facilitated by European officials. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran unveils long-range ballistic missile capable of striking US bases, Israel

Tehran marked the second anniversary of the killing of the country's commander Qasem Soleimani. In Baghdad, thousands of pro-Iranian supporters took to the streets to slam the US govt for the killing of the Iranian commander Soleimani. Qasem Soleimani was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International airport in Iraq. Soleimani along with his Iraqi lieutenant Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were among those killed in addition to other commanders.

Iran marks second anniversary of killing of military commander Qasem Soleimani

Iran makes it clear that they won't allow camera access at their Nuclear site until all sanctions are lifted. They also demand to keep all the camera recordings.

Iran: Tehran refuses to share nuclear site images, 'No access until sanctions end'

Talks to revive the Iran nuclear deal resumed today. But the negotiations ended in one hour. Tehran is playing hardball - and using its nuclear program as a bargaining chip. But, can Iran really make a nuclear bomb? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Can Iran really make a nuclear bomb?

For the 14th consecutive day, the Iranian capital Tehran remains engulfed in smoke. The Air Quality Index (AQI) of the city has entered a severe category. Residents have been complaining of respiratory illnesses.

Smoke chokes Iranian capital Tehran for 14th consecutive day

Boosting pressure on Tehran ahead of the reopening of negotiations on the country's nuclear program the US Treasury has hit Iran's drone program with sanctions.

US Treasury hits Iran's drone program with sanctions

Following a meeting in Washington with his Israeli and United Arab Emirates counterparts, Secretary of State Antony Blinken laid out a tougher U.S. Stance toward Tehran's new government. Washington has said that it is ready to consider "all options" if Iran is unwilling to return to the 2015 nuclear deal.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken lays out tougher stance toward Tehran's new government

Tehran's foreign ministry says the resumption of nuclear talks with world powers will probably take another two to three months.

The European Union-led talks, which aims&nbsp;to get the US back into the 2015 agreement have&nbsp;been underway since April.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/before-talks-irans-supreme-leader-says-predatory-wolf-biden-no-different-from-trump-409148">Before talks, Iran's supreme leader says 'predatory wolf' Biden no different from Trump</a>

Donald Trump, former US president, abandoned the nuclear agreement in 2018 and imposed tough sanctions against Iran.&nbsp;In contrast, to Trump, his&nbsp;successor, Joe Biden, wants to reinstate Washington into the agreement.

The negotiations were previously paused on June 20, two days after&nbsp;ultraconservative&nbsp;Ebrahim Raisi won Iran's presidential election, with no date set for&nbsp;a resumption of dialogue.

On Wednesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian appealed to his Iranian counterpart for "immediate resumption" of the Iran nuclear talks.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hardline-new-president-sworn-in-amid-stalled-nuclear-talks-403262">Iran's hardline new president sworn in amid stalled nuclear talks</a>

A French foreign ministry spokesman said that the minister stressed the importance and urgency of immediately getting back to negotiations, which have been suspended by Iran since June.&nbsp;

"We are not seeking to flee the negotiation table and the... government considers a real negotiation is a negotiation that produces palpable results allowing the rights of the Iranian nation to be guaranteed," Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said during an interview broadcast on Tuesday evening by state television.

He said that the Vienna talks are "one of the questions on the foreign policy and government agenda".

Adding that "the other party knows full well that a process of two to three months is required for the new government to establish itself and to start taking decisions."

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-raisi-set-to-focus-on-economy-and-nuclear-deal-402130">Iran's Raisi set to focus on economy and nuclear deal</a>

Raisi succeeded Hassan Rouhani, the principal architect of the 2015 agreement on Iran's side, as president in early August.&nbsp;After receiving parliamentary approval, his government was sworn in on August 26.

Under the 2015 deal,&nbsp;Iran was offered an easing of sanctions as compensation for UN-monitored restrictions on its nuclear programme.

However, after the re-imposition of sweeping sanctions following Trump's withdrawal from the deal three years ago, Iran&nbsp;in retaliation,&nbsp;effectively abandoned most of its commitments.

The Vienna talks include Iran along with Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, the other five remaining parties to the CPTPP deal.

While the United States takes part in the talks, it does not have direct contact with Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tehran's foreign ministry says the resumption of nuclear talks with world powers will probably take another two to three months. The European Union-led talks, which aims to get the US back into the 2015 agreement have been underway since April.

Tehran's foreign ministry says the resumption of nuclear talks with world powers will probably take another two to three months. The European Union-led talks, which aims to get the US back into the 2015 agreement have been underway since April. Also read | Before talks, Iran's supreme leader says 'predatory wolf' Biden no different from Trump Donald Trump, former US president, abandoned the nuclear agreement in 2018 and imposed tough sanctions against Iran. In contrast, to Trump, his successor, Joe Biden, wants to reinstate Washington into the agreement. The negotiations were previously paused on June 20, two days after ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi won Iran's presidential election, with no date set for a resumption of dialogue. On Wednesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian appealed to his Iranian counterpart for "immediate resumption" of the Iran nuclear talks. Also read | Iran's hardline new president sworn in amid stalled nuclear talks A French foreign ministry spokesman said that the minister stressed the importance and urgency of immediately getting back to negotiations, which have been suspended by Iran since June. "We are not seeking to flee the negotiation table and the... government considers a real negotiation is a negotiation that produces palpable results allowing the rights of the Iranian nation to be guaranteed," Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said during an interview broadcast on Tuesday evening by state television. He said that the Vienna talks are "one of the questions on the foreign policy and government agenda". Adding that "the other party knows full well that a process of two to three months is required for the new government to establish itself and to start taking decisions." Also read | Iran's Raisi set to focus on economy and nuclear deal Raisi succeeded Hassan Rouhani, the principal architect of the 2015 agreement on Iran's side, as president in early August. After receiving parliamentary approval, his government was sworn in on August 26. Under the 2015 deal, Iran was offered an easing of sanctions as compensation for UN-monitored restrictions on its nuclear programme. However, after the re-imposition of sweeping sanctions following Trump's withdrawal from the deal three years ago, Iran in retaliation, effectively abandoned most of its commitments. The Vienna talks include Iran along with Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, the other five remaining parties to the CPTPP deal. While the United States takes part in the talks, it does not have direct contact with Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Tehran says talks on 2015 nuclear deal might not resume for 2-3 months

Tehran denies involvement in either of the incidents, which are the latest in a years-long shadow war being waged on Middle East waterways crucial to oil exports.

Israel prepared to attack Iran, says 'We'll strike Iran alone'

Hardline Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi took the oath of office before parliament on Thursday, with the Islamic Republic's clerical rulers facing growing crises at home and abroad.

The mid-ranking Shia cleric formally started his four-year term on Tuesday when supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei endorsed his victory in the June election, when most prominent rivals were barred from standing.&nbsp;

At a difficult period, the former judicial chief, known for his mistrust of the West, assumes the reins. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-here-is-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-new-iranian-president-ebrahim-raisi-403178">In Pics | Here is all you need to know about the new Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi</a>

Iran's indirect discussions with the US to save the historic 2015 nuclear agreement have stagnated, as Washington maintains crushing sanctions and regional conflicts rage.

During his half-hour inaugural speech, Raisi stated that the sanctions must be lifted.&nbsp;

"I swear to safeguard the official religion and the establishment of the Islamic Republic and constitution of the nation," Raisi said in taking the oath at parliament

During the ceremony, honours were given to Qassem Soleimani, the senior Iranian commander who was killed by former US President Donald Trump in a targeted killing.&nbsp;

Raisi immediately demonstrated that he and the Supreme Leader are on the same page.

In addition, the next president has a large majority in parliament, allowing him to rapidly pass legislation that might lead to substantial changes in Iran's internal and international policy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Hardline Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi took the oath of office before parliament on Thursday, with the Islamic Republic's clerical rulers facing growing crises at home and abroad.

Hardline Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi took the oath of office before parliament on Thursday, with the Islamic Republic's clerical rulers facing growing crises at home and abroad. The mid-ranking Shia cleric formally started his four-year term on Tuesday when supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei endorsed his victory in the June election, when most prominent rivals were barred from standing. At a difficult period, the former judicial chief, known for his mistrust of the West, assumes the reins. In Pics | Here is all you need to know about the new Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Iran's indirect discussions with the US to save the historic 2015 nuclear agreement have stagnated, as Washington maintains crushing sanctions and regional conflicts rage. During his half-hour inaugural speech, Raisi stated that the sanctions must be lifted. "I swear to safeguard the official religion and the establishment of the Islamic Republic and constitution of the nation," Raisi said in taking the oath at parliament During the ceremony, honours were given to Qassem Soleimani, the senior Iranian commander who was killed by former US President Donald Trump in a targeted killing. Raisi immediately demonstrated that he and the Supreme Leader are on the same page. In addition, the next president has a large majority in parliament, allowing him to rapidly pass legislation that might lead to substantial changes in Iran's internal and international policy. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's hardline new president sworn in amid stalled nuclear talks

In Pics | Here is all you need to know about the new Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi

Hundreds of Iranians marched through Tehran in rare protests over blackouts and power outages. Workers in the lucrative oil industry have also gone on strike. How will this instability affect Iran's upcoming change of guard? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Iran: Drought triggers anti-govt protests

Afghanistan government delegation held a meeting with Taliban representatives in Tehran. The highly anticipated talks come as Afghanistan faces the domino effect of American troops exit from the country.

Taliban and Afghan delegation hold meeting in Tehran

Award-winning actress Glenn Close has been signed for ‘Tehran’, an Apple series. The actress will play the new series role of Marjan Montazeri, a British woman living in Tehran, Iran.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that the role was specially crafted keeping Glenn Close in mind as she loves the show and wanted to be a part of it.&nbsp;

‘Tehran’ tells the story of Mossad agent Tamar Rabinyan (Niv Sultan), who goes deep undercover on a dangerous mission in Tehran that places her and everyone around her in dire jeopardy.

She joins an ensemble cast that includes stars Sultan, Shaun Toub and Shervin Alenabi.

Glenn was recently nominated for her eighth Oscar for ‘Hillbilly Elegy’. She will next be seen in the feature ‘Swan Song’.&nbsp;

Award-winning actress Glenn Close has been signed for ‘Tehran’, an Apple series. The actress will play the new series role of Marjan Montazeri, a British woman living in Tehran, Iran.

Award-winning actress Glenn Close has been signed for ‘Tehran’, an Apple series. The actress will play the new series role of Marjan Montazeri, a British woman living in Tehran, Iran. Reports suggest that the role was specially crafted keeping Glenn Close in mind as she loves the show and wanted to be a part of it. ‘Tehran’ tells the story of Mossad agent Tamar Rabinyan (Niv Sultan), who goes deep undercover on a dangerous mission in Tehran that places her and everyone around her in dire jeopardy. She joins an ensemble cast that includes stars Sultan, Shaun Toub and Shervin Alenabi. Glenn was recently nominated for her eighth Oscar for ‘Hillbilly Elegy’. She will next be seen in the feature ‘Swan Song’.

Glenn Close to star in season 2 of Apple series ‘Tehran’

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei slammed remarks by Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif as a 'big mistake', a week after a leaked tape emerged where the top diplomat disagreed with the strategies of a revered Iranian general.

Iran's supreme leader Khamenei says remarks by Zarif in audio leak 'big mistake'

A senior White House official denied reports from Tehran that an agreement had been reached with Iran for the release of four Americans detained there. White House chief of staff Ron Klain said "there is no agreement to release these four Americans. We're working very hard to get them released".

US denies reports Iran poised to free four Americans

A leaked audio recording of Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has now stirred a hot political debate in Tehran. President Hassan Rouhani has ordered a probe into the leak calling it a conspiracy against the government and Iran's national interest.

Iran: Leaked audio recording of Javad Zarif stirs hot political debate

Saudi and Iranian officials held direct talks this month to ease tensions between the two rivals. A senior Iranian official and two regional sources said Washington worked to revive the 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran and end the Yemen war.

Your Story: Saudi-Iran talks arranged by Iraq's PM focus on Yemen

Iran is blaming Israel for the blackout at its Natanz nuclear site. Tehran is calling the cyber attack an act of 'nuclear terrorism'. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how an electrical outage became a headache for US President Joe Biden.

Gravitas: Did Israel's Mossad 'sabotage' Iran's nuclear site?

The United States and Iran are expected to hold indirect talks in Vienna from Tuesday as part of broader negotiations to revive the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers.

US-Iran to hold indirect nuclear talks in Vienna today

French President Emmanuel Macron accused Iran of continuing to violate a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers and said Tehran should act responsibly.

France: Prez Emmanuel Macron accuses Iran of violating the 2015 nuclear deal

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

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

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

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

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

British-Iranian aid worker Zaghari-Ratcliffe freed by Tehran

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