China on Friday (Aug 21) rejected the United States' push for countries, including Beijing, to help isolate Iran's economy, saying "sanctions and pressure" would not resolve the conflict in the Middle East. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian called for a political and diplomatic solution as Washington steps up economic pressure on Tehran. "Sanctions and pressure will not help resolve the issue," Lin told reporters at a briefing. He urged "all relevant parties to take responsible measures and resolve the problem through political and diplomatic means".Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to visit the White House on September 24.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-crushing-economic-campaign-against-iran-threatens-allies-with-tremendous-penalties-1787186991774">Trump announces ‘crushing’ economic campaign against Iran, threatens allies with ‘tremendous’ penalties</a><h2>US pressuring allies to support Iran economic pressure campaign</h2>The response came a day after the United States called on its allies and China to join President Donald Trump's campaign to isolate Iran economically.Trump had announced what he described as the "MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY", promising unprecedented economic warfare and isolation against Tehran.US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has since reinforced the message, warning countries that continue economic ties with Iran could face consequences. "Any remaining tie to Tehran will hasten a nation's economic oblivion, whether that tie be purposefully constructed or willfully ignored," Bessent said on X.Washington has not yet detailed the full scope of the measures. Bessent said further details would be provided during a press conference on Monday. Asked about pressure on China, Bessent said some discussions were better conducted privately, while urging Beijing to "get with the program".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-suspends-trade-with-iran-accuses-it-of-targeting-gulf-shipping-tehran-calls-claim-baseless-1787100695124">UAE suspends trade with Iran, accuses it of targeting Gulf shipping; Tehran calls claim baseless</a><h2>Iran calls US sanctions 'economic terrorism'</h2>Tehran has rejected the US campaign, accusing Washington of using economic pressure to divert attention from its own problems. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the proposed campaign as a diversion from what he called America's "unprecedented debt &amp; surging interest costs".Iran's Foreign Ministry went further, describing US sanctions as "economic terrorism" and "crimes against humanity".

Washington is pressing China to join its campaign against Iran, but Beijing is pushing back. China's latest response comes just weeks before Xi Jinping is due to meet Donald Trump at the White House.

China on Friday (Aug 21) rejected the United States' push for countries, including Beijing, to help isolate Iran's economy, saying "sanctions and pressure" would not resolve the conflict in the Middle East. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian called for a political and diplomatic solution as Washington steps up economic pressure on Tehran. "Sanctions and pressure will not help resolve the issue," Lin told reporters at a briefing. He urged "all relevant parties to take responsible measures and resolve the problem through political and diplomatic means". Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to visit the White House on September 24. Also read | Trump announces ‘crushing’ economic campaign against Iran, threatens allies with ‘tremendous’ penalties US pressuring allies to support Iran economic pressure campaign The response came a day after the United States called on its allies and China to join President Donald Trump's campaign to isolate Iran economically. Trump had announced what he described as the "MOST CRUSHING ECONOMIC OPERATION EVER TAKEN AGAINST ANY COUNTRY", promising unprecedented economic warfare and isolation against Tehran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has since reinforced the message, warning countries that continue economic ties with Iran could face consequences. "Any remaining tie to Tehran will hasten a nation's economic oblivion, whether that tie be purposefully constructed or willfully ignored," Bessent said on X. Washington has not yet detailed the full scope of the measures. Bessent said further details would be provided during a press conference on Monday. Asked about pressure on China, Bessent said some discussions were better conducted privately, while urging Beijing to "get with the program". Also read | UAE suspends trade with Iran, accuses it of targeting Gulf shipping; Tehran calls claim baseless Iran calls US sanctions 'economic terrorism' Tehran has rejected the US campaign, accusing Washington of using economic pressure to divert attention from its own problems. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the proposed campaign as a diversion from what he called America's "unprecedented debt & surging interest costs". Iran's Foreign Ministry went further, describing US sanctions as "economic terrorism" and "crimes against humanity".

Washington is pressing China to join its campaign against Iran, but Beijing is pushing back. China's latest response comes just weeks before Xi Jinping is due to meet Donald Trump at the White House.

China rejects US call to isolate Iran, says 'sanctions and pressure' will not resolve conflict

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday (August 20) said Washington's plan to intensify economic sanctions on Iran could reduce the need for another large-scale military operation against Tehran.&nbsp;"If we are doing the maximum economic pressure, then that means that likely there will not be a large-scale kinetic restart, but I will emphasise that is for now," Bessent was quoted as saying by CNBC.&nbsp;Bessent said the US wants to sharply increase economic pressure on Iran with the aim of collapsing its government. He described the planned sanctions as an unprecedented campaign of economic isolation.&nbsp;"It is going to work in Iran, and we are going to collapse this regime," he told CNBC. "This is going to be the greatest coordinated economic isolation in the history of the world."<h2>US urges China and allies to back sanctions</h2>Bessent also addressed the possibility of Washington putting pressure on China over its dealings with Iran. He said "many conversations are best to have in private," while urging Beijing "to get with the program." The Treasury Secretary also called on other countries to support the US measures and warned them about the consequences of failing to do so.&nbsp;"So it is time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision, and we are going to squash the economy of this murderous regime, which, that will curtail their ability to project power through their proxies," he said.&nbsp;Washington has imposed a series of new economic sanctions since US President Donald Trump launched the war with Tehran in late February. However, the Iranian government has continued to operate despite the measures.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-approves-high-court-bench-in-ladakh-shah-hails-move-to-ease-justice-access-1787235249621">Centre approves High Court bench in Ladakh, Shah hails move to ease justice access</a><h2>Iran rejects US sanctions as 'economic terrorism'</h2>Iran's Foreign Ministry strongly rejected the latest US sanctions and described them as a crime against humanity. According to ISNA, Tehran said the measures reflected decades of US hostility towards the Iranian people.&nbsp;"The US administration, on the anniversary of the shameful coup of 19 Mordad 1953, claimed to impose extensive economic and trade sanctions against the Iranian nation. This action is not only another sign of the continuation of 73 years of American policymakers' animosity and hostility towards the Iranian people, but also proves the anti-human, law-breaking, and arrogant nature of the US administration.&nbsp;"Without a doubt, the US economic sanctions against Iran, which have targeted the fundamental human rights of every Iranian citizen, are an example of "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity," and the instigators and perpetrators of these sanctions deserve to be tried and punished for committing such heinous crimes," the semi-official news agency quoted Tehran's foreign ministry as saying.&nbsp;The Iranian ministry also described the sanctions as inhumane measures against the Iranian people. It said the Islamic Republic remains determined to defend its security and national interests while confronting US military, economic, political and psychological pressure.

The US said tougher economic sanctions could reduce the risk of renewed large-scale military action against Iran, while Tehran condemned the measures as "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity".

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday (August 20) said Washington's plan to intensify economic sanctions on Iran could reduce the need for another large-scale military operation against Tehran. "If we are doing the maximum economic pressure, then that means that likely there will not be a large-scale kinetic restart, but I will emphasise that is for now," Bessent was quoted as saying by CNBC. Bessent said the US wants to sharply increase economic pressure on Iran with the aim of collapsing its government. He described the planned sanctions as an unprecedented campaign of economic isolation. "It is going to work in Iran, and we are going to collapse this regime," he told CNBC. "This is going to be the greatest coordinated economic isolation in the history of the world." US urges China and allies to back sanctions Bessent also addressed the possibility of Washington putting pressure on China over its dealings with Iran. He said "many conversations are best to have in private," while urging Beijing "to get with the program." The Treasury Secretary also called on other countries to support the US measures and warned them about the consequences of failing to do so. "So it is time for our allies and the rest of the world to make a decision, and we are going to squash the economy of this murderous regime, which, that will curtail their ability to project power through their proxies," he said. Washington has imposed a series of new economic sanctions since US President Donald Trump launched the war with Tehran in late February. However, the Iranian government has continued to operate despite the measures. Also Read: Centre approves High Court bench in Ladakh, Shah hails move to ease justice access Iran rejects US sanctions as 'economic terrorism' Iran's Foreign Ministry strongly rejected the latest US sanctions and described them as a crime against humanity. According to ISNA, Tehran said the measures reflected decades of US hostility towards the Iranian people. "The US administration, on the anniversary of the shameful coup of 19 Mordad 1953, claimed to impose extensive economic and trade sanctions against the Iranian nation. This action is not only another sign of the continuation of 73 years of American policymakers' animosity and hostility towards the Iranian people, but also proves the anti-human, law-breaking, and arrogant nature of the US administration. "Without a doubt, the US economic sanctions against Iran, which have targeted the fundamental human rights of every Iranian citizen, are an example of "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity," and the instigators and perpetrators of these sanctions deserve to be tried and punished for committing such heinous crimes," the semi-official news agency quoted Tehran's foreign ministry as saying. The Iranian ministry also described the sanctions as inhumane measures against the Iranian people. It said the Islamic Republic remains determined to defend its security and national interests while confronting US military, economic, political and psychological pressure.

The US said tougher economic sanctions could reduce the risk of renewed large-scale military action against Iran, while Tehran condemned the measures as "economic terrorism" and a "crime against humanity".

US says tougher Iran sanctions make large-scale war less likely; Tehran condemns 'economic terrorism'

The United States has reimposed its naval blockade on Iranian ports following the collapse of peace talks, but Iran's oil exports continue through a secretive network known as the "shadow fleet."

This network consists of hundreds of aging oil tankers that operate outside traditional shipping systems, helping Tehran continue its energy trade despite years of U.S. sanctions. These vessels often disable tracking systems, change identities, use foreign registrations, and conduct ship-to-ship oil transfers to hide their origins.

While Washington's sanctions target companies, banks, and shipping firms involved in Iranian crude trade, Iran has built a parallel export system that keeps its oil flowing to international buyers, especially China.

Iran's Ships Hide Identities to Evade U.S. Sanctions & Tracking | The West Asia Post 

The United States on Tuesday (July 14) imposed a fresh round of Iran-related sanctions while issuing a general licence allowing limited transactions involving certain sanctioned individuals and vessels, as US forces launched another wave of military strikes against Iran.&nbsp;According to details published on the US Treasury Department's website, the latest sanctions target several individuals, entities and vessels linked to Iran. At the same time, the Treasury issued a general licence permitting specific wind-down activities, limited safety and environmental transactions, and the offloading of cargo involving certain people or vessels that were designated on July 14.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pays-5-6-million-to-e-jean-carroll-in-sexual-assault-and-defamation-case-1784051932141">Trump pays $5.6 million to E. Jean Carroll in sexual assault and defamation case</a>&nbsp;The Treasury Department said the licence was intended to facilitate the orderly winding down of authorised activities while maintaining restrictions on those newly sanctioned.&nbsp;The sanctions announcement came as the military campaign against Iran continued to escalate.The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces began an additional round of strikes against Iran at 3 p.m. ET on Tuesday, targeting capabilities that it said had been used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;"The strikes are taking place as American forces prepare to resume the naval blockade against Iranian ports and coastal areas," CENTCOM said in a statement. The military added that the naval blockade would take effect at 4 p.m. ET, marking a further intensification of Washington's operations against Tehran amid the deepening conflict in the region.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwait-hostile-targets-iran-attacks-us-military-bases-explosions-1784045139098">Iran claims fresh strikes on US military bases in Kuwait as explosions rock Gulf</a>&nbsp;The latest sanctions and military action underscore the United States' twin-track approach of increasing economic pressure on Iran while expanding its military campaign in response to what it says are threats to international shipping and regional security.

The US imposed new Iran-related sanctions while granting a limited general license for wind-down activities, alongside military strikes and a reinstated naval blockade by CENTCOM in the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States on Tuesday (July 14) imposed a fresh round of Iran-related sanctions while issuing a general licence allowing limited transactions involving certain sanctioned individuals and vessels, as US forces launched another wave of military strikes against Iran. According to details published on the US Treasury Department's website, the latest sanctions target several individuals, entities and vessels linked to Iran. At the same time, the Treasury issued a general licence permitting specific wind-down activities, limited safety and environmental transactions, and the offloading of cargo involving certain people or vessels that were designated on July 14. Also read: Trump pays $5.6 million to E. Jean Carroll in sexual assault and defamation case The Treasury Department said the licence was intended to facilitate the orderly winding down of authorised activities while maintaining restrictions on those newly sanctioned. The sanctions announcement came as the military campaign against Iran continued to escalate. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces began an additional round of strikes against Iran at 3 p.m. ET on Tuesday, targeting capabilities that it said had been used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. "The strikes are taking place as American forces prepare to resume the naval blockade against Iranian ports and coastal areas," CENTCOM said in a statement. The military added that the naval blockade would take effect at 4 p.m. ET, marking a further intensification of Washington's operations against Tehran amid the deepening conflict in the region. Also read: Iran claims fresh strikes on US military bases in Kuwait as explosions rock Gulf The latest sanctions and military action underscore the United States' twin-track approach of increasing economic pressure on Iran while expanding its military campaign in response to what it says are threats to international shipping and regional security.

The US imposed new Iran-related sanctions while granting a limited general license for wind-down activities, alongside military strikes and a reinstated naval blockade by CENTCOM in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump admin issues fresh Iran sanctions as US forces intensify strikes

Iran has said it will expel United Nations nuclear watchdog inspectors unless US sanctions are lifted by a February 21 deadline set by the hardline-dominated parliament.

Parliament passed a law in November that obliges the government to halt inspections of its nuclear sites by the International Atomic Energy Agency and step up uranium enrichment beyond the limit set under Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal if sanctions are not eased.

Iran's Guardian Council watchdog body approved the law on December 2 and the government has said it will implement it.

In a statement, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Iran had an obligation to allow the inspectors access.

"Once again the Iranian regime is using its nuclear programme to extort the international community and threaten regional security," Pompeo said.

Iran said on Monday it had resumed 20 per cent uranium enrichment at an underground nuclear facility, breaching the nuclear pact with major powers and possibly complicating efforts by US President-elect Joe Biden to rejoin the deal.

Iran began violating the accord in 2019 in response to President Donald Trump's withdrawal of the United States from it in 2018 and the reimposition of US sanctions that had been lifted under the deal. Tehran often says it can quickly reverse its breaches if Washington's sanctions are removed.

Iran has said it will expel United Nations nuclear watchdog inspectors unless US sanctions are lifted by a February 21 deadline set by the hardline-dominated parliament.

Iran has said it will expel United Nations nuclear watchdog inspectors unless US sanctions are lifted by a February 21 deadline set by the hardline-dominated parliament. Parliament passed a law in November that obliges the government to halt inspections of its nuclear sites by the International Atomic Energy Agency and step up uranium enrichment beyond the limit set under Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal if sanctions are not eased. Iran's Guardian Council watchdog body approved the law on December 2 and the government has said it will implement it. In a statement, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Iran had an obligation to allow the inspectors access. "Once again the Iranian regime is using its nuclear programme to extort the international community and threaten regional security," Pompeo said. Iran said on Monday it had resumed 20 per cent uranium enrichment at an underground nuclear facility, breaching the nuclear pact with major powers and possibly complicating efforts by US President-elect Joe Biden to rejoin the deal. Iran began violating the accord in 2019 in response to President Donald Trump's withdrawal of the United States from it in 2018 and the reimposition of US sanctions that had been lifted under the deal. Tehran often says it can quickly reverse its breaches if Washington's sanctions are removed.

Iran says will expel UN nuclear inspectors unless US sanctions are lifted

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani accused the United States on Saturday of “savagery” for inflicting $150 billion of damage on Iran due to sanctions, and said Iranians should direct their anger at the White House.

“With their illegal and inhuman sanctions, and terrorist actions, the Americans have inflicted 150 billion dollars of damage on the people of Iran,” Rouhani said in televised remarks, his voice shaking with anger.

“We haven’t seen such an extent of savagery ... The address for Iranian people’s curses and hatred is the White House.”

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have soared since U.S. President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew in 2018 from the Iran nuclear deal struck by his predecessor and began reimposing sanctions that had been eased under the accord.

Iran, in turn, has gradually breached the central limits in that deal, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), including on the size of its stockpile of low-enriched uranium as well as the level of purity to which it was allowed to enrich uranium.

Washington imposed new sanctions on Monday on Iran’s defence ministry and others involved in its nuclear and weapons programme.

On Thursday, Washington blacklisted several Iranian officials and entities over alleged gross violations of human rights, including imposing sanctions on a judge it said was involved in the case of an Iranian wrestler sentenced to death.

Rouhani gave no details on the breakdown of the economic damage he said had been incurred due to the sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani accused the United States on Saturday of “savagery” for inflicting $150 billion of damage on Iran due to sanctions, and said Iranians should direct their anger at the White House.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani accused the United States on Saturday of “savagery” for inflicting $150 billion of damage on Iran due to sanctions, and said Iranians should direct their anger at the White House. “With their illegal and inhuman sanctions, and terrorist actions, the Americans have inflicted 150 billion dollars of damage on the people of Iran,” Rouhani said in televised remarks, his voice shaking with anger. “We haven’t seen such an extent of savagery ... The address for Iranian people’s curses and hatred is the White House.” Tensions between Washington and Tehran have soared since U.S. President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew in 2018 from the Iran nuclear deal struck by his predecessor and began reimposing sanctions that had been eased under the accord. Iran, in turn, has gradually breached the central limits in that deal, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), including on the size of its stockpile of low-enriched uranium as well as the level of purity to which it was allowed to enrich uranium. Washington imposed new sanctions on Monday on Iran’s defence ministry and others involved in its nuclear and weapons programme. On Thursday, Washington blacklisted several Iranian officials and entities over alleged gross violations of human rights, including imposing sanctions on a judge it said was involved in the case of an Iranian wrestler sentenced to death. Rouhani gave no details on the breakdown of the economic damage he said had been incurred due to the sanctions.

Iranian president accuses US of savagery after new sanctions

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council.&nbsp;

Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a 30-day process that will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a move rejected by 13 of the UNSC members saying that the mechanism is void as Washington left the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-slap-sanctions-on-over-two-dozen-targets-tied-to-iran-arms-328984">US to slap sanctions on over two dozen targets tied to Iran arms</a>

The secretary-general in a letter addressed to the council president said the "Security Council has taken no action subsequent to the receipt of the letter of the US Secretary of state, neither have any of its members or its president".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-us-faces-maximum-isolation-as-world-powers-dismiss-sanctions-328980">Iran says US faces 'maximum isolation' as world powers dismiss sanctions</a>

He added the UNSC presidents for August and Septembers have indicated that they couldn't take any action in this matter.

Therefore, "it is not for the secretary-general to proceed as if no such uncertainty exists," he added.&nbsp;

Pompeo on Saturday warned of "consequences" to countries that "fail to fulfil their obligations to implement" the sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

Major US allies the UK, France and Germany on Friday told the council that UN sanctions relief on Iran would continue and any move to reimpose these measures would be incapable of legal effect."

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council. Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a 30-day process that will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a move rejected by 13 of the UNSC members saying that the mechanism is void as Washington left the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018. Also read | US to slap sanctions on over two dozen targets tied to Iran arms The secretary-general in a letter addressed to the council president said the "Security Council has taken no action subsequent to the receipt of the letter of the US Secretary of state, neither have any of its members or its president". Also read | Iran says US faces 'maximum isolation' as world powers dismiss sanctions He added the UNSC presidents for August and Septembers have indicated that they couldn't take any action in this matter. Therefore, "it is not for the secretary-general to proceed as if no such uncertainty exists," he added. Pompeo on Saturday warned of "consequences" to countries that "fail to fulfil their obligations to implement" the sanctions on Iran. Major US allies the UK, France and Germany on Friday told the council that UN sanctions relief on Iran would continue and any move to reimpose these measures would be incapable of legal effect."

UN to not reimpose sanctions on Iran until nod given by Security Council: Guterres

The sanctions were suspended in 2015 following a multilateral nuclear deal with Iran in July that year.

US reimposes sanctions on Iran

The president of the UN Security Council, Indonesia, has said it was "not in the position to take further action" on a US bid to trigger a return of all UN sanctions on Iran

UNSC Rejects US' demand to restore sanctions on Iran

The United States has suffered another&nbsp;setback over its bid to reimpose international sanctions on Iran with 13 countries on the 15-member UN Security Council opposing US push for sanction against&nbsp;

The majority argued that Washington's move is void given it is using a process agreed under a nuclear deal that it quit two years ago.

In the 24 hours since US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he triggered a 30-day countdown to a return of UN sanctions on Iran, including an arms embargo, long-time allies Britain, France, Germany and Belgium as well as China, Russia, Vietnam, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, South Africa, Indonesia, Estonia and Tunisia have already written letters in opposition, seen by Reuters.

The United States has accused Iran of breaching a 2015 deal with world powers that aimed to stop Tehran developing nuclear weapons in return for sanctions relief. But President Donald Trump described it as the "worst deal ever" and quit in 2018.

Diplomats said Russia, China and many other countries are unlikely to reimpose the sanctions on Iran. Pompeo again warned Russia and China against that on Friday, threatening US action if they refuse to reimpose the UN measures on Iran.

The United States acted on Thursday after the Security Council resoundingly rejected its bid last week to extend an arms embargo on Iran beyond its expiration in October. Only the Dominican Republic joined Washington in voting yes.

Dominican Republic has not yet written to the council to state its position on the sanctions snapback push. 
Under the process Washington says it has triggered, it appears all UN sanctions should be reimposed at midnight GMT on September 19 - just days before Trump is due to address world leaders at the UN General Assembly, the annual meeting that will be largely virtual because of the coronavirus pandemic.

A 2015 Security Council resolution enshrining the nuclear deal states that if no council member has put forward a draft resolution to extend sanctions relief on Iran within 10 days of a non-compliance complaint, then the body's president shall do so within the remaining 20 days.

The United States would be able to veto this, giving it a cleaner argument that sanctions on Iran have to be reimposed.

However, the 2015 resolution also says the council would "take into account the views of the states involved." Given the strong opposition, some diplomats say the council president - Indonesia for August and Niger for September - would not have to put up a draft text.

Pompeo and outgoing US Iran envoy Brian Hook signalled that Washington expects Indonesia or Niger to put a text to a vote. Another US option is to put forward the draft itself or ask the Dominican Republic to do so.

The United States argues that it can trigger the sanctions snapback process because the 2015 Security Council resolution still names it as a nuclear deal participant.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, distanced himself from the showdown in the Security Council. 
"Security Council members will need to interpret their own resolution," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters. "It's not the Secretary-General."

The United States has suffered another setback over its bid to reimpose international sanctions on Iran with 13 countries on the 15-member UN Security Council opposing US push for sanction against The majority argued that Washington's move is void given it is using a process agreed under a nuclear deal that it quit two years ago.

The United States has suffered another setback over its bid to reimpose international sanctions on Iran with 13 countries on the 15-member UN Security Council opposing US push for sanction against The majority argued that Washington's move is void given it is using a process agreed under a nuclear deal that it quit two years ago. In the 24 hours since US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he triggered a 30-day countdown to a return of UN sanctions on Iran, including an arms embargo, long-time allies Britain, France, Germany and Belgium as well as China, Russia, Vietnam, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, South Africa, Indonesia, Estonia and Tunisia have already written letters in opposition, seen by Reuters. The United States has accused Iran of breaching a 2015 deal with world powers that aimed to stop Tehran developing nuclear weapons in return for sanctions relief. But President Donald Trump described it as the "worst deal ever" and quit in 2018. Diplomats said Russia, China and many other countries are unlikely to reimpose the sanctions on Iran. Pompeo again warned Russia and China against that on Friday, threatening US action if they refuse to reimpose the UN measures on Iran. The United States acted on Thursday after the Security Council resoundingly rejected its bid last week to extend an arms embargo on Iran beyond its expiration in October. Only the Dominican Republic joined Washington in voting yes. Dominican Republic has not yet written to the council to state its position on the sanctions snapback push. Under the process Washington says it has triggered, it appears all UN sanctions should be reimposed at midnight GMT on September 19 - just days before Trump is due to address world leaders at the UN General Assembly, the annual meeting that will be largely virtual because of the coronavirus pandemic. A 2015 Security Council resolution enshrining the nuclear deal states that if no council member has put forward a draft resolution to extend sanctions relief on Iran within 10 days of a non-compliance complaint, then the body's president shall do so within the remaining 20 days. The United States would be able to veto this, giving it a cleaner argument that sanctions on Iran have to be reimposed. However, the 2015 resolution also says the council would "take into account the views of the states involved." Given the strong opposition, some diplomats say the council president - Indonesia for August and Niger for September - would not have to put up a draft text. Pompeo and outgoing US Iran envoy Brian Hook signalled that Washington expects Indonesia or Niger to put a text to a vote. Another US option is to put forward the draft itself or ask the Dominican Republic to do so. The United States argues that it can trigger the sanctions snapback process because the 2015 Security Council resolution still names it as a nuclear deal participant. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, distanced himself from the showdown in the Security Council. "Security Council members will need to interpret their own resolution," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters. "It's not the Secretary-General."

Majority of UN Security Council members oppose US push for Iran sanctions

Iran has issued an arrest warrant against United States President Donald Trump and dozens of others for the killing of its top commander Qassem Soleimani. Iranian govt issues warrant against Trump and 30 others

Iran issues arrest warrant for Trump over top commander's killing

Additional sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States show that Washington's offer of talks is not genuine, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said on Saturday.

The United States sanctioned Iran’s largest petrochemical holding group on Friday for indirectly supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a step it said aimed to dry up revenues to the elite Iranian military force but that analysts called largely symbolic.

US President Donald Trump said earlier this month that he would be willing to talk to the Islamic Republic.

“It was only necessary to wait one week until the claim of the president of America about talks with Iran were proven to be hollow,” Mousavi said in a statement. “The American policy of maximum pressure is a defeated policy.”

Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States in recent weeks after Washington sent more military forces to the Middle East, including an aircraft carrier, B-52 bombers and Patriot missiles, in a show of force against what U.S. officials call Iranian threats to U.S. troops and interests in the region.

The United States aims to intensify economic and military pressure on Iran because of its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes as well as its support for proxy groups in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen.

US President Donald Trump antagonized Iran, and dismayed key US allies, last year when he exited a 2015 deal between Tehran and world powers under which Tehran curbed its nuclear program in return for an easing of most international sanctions.

Trump denounced the deal, signed before he took office, as flawed and reimposed tough financial sanctions on Iran that were subsequently extended to its lifeblood oil exports.

Trump said on Thursday that Iran was failing as a nation, under the pressure of his sanctions, and repeated his call for talks with the leadership in Tehran. Mousavi on Friday dismissed Trump's comments as "repetitive, groundless and paradoxical” and said they did not merit a response.

Additional sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States show that Washington's offer of talks is not genuine, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said on Saturday.

Additional sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States show that Washington's offer of talks is not genuine, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said on Saturday. The United States sanctioned Iran’s largest petrochemical holding group on Friday for indirectly supporting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a step it said aimed to dry up revenues to the elite Iranian military force but that analysts called largely symbolic. US President Donald Trump said earlier this month that he would be willing to talk to the Islamic Republic. “It was only necessary to wait one week until the claim of the president of America about talks with Iran were proven to be hollow,” Mousavi said in a statement. “The American policy of maximum pressure is a defeated policy.” Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States in recent weeks after Washington sent more military forces to the Middle East, including an aircraft carrier, B-52 bombers and Patriot missiles, in a show of force against what U.S. officials call Iranian threats to U.S. troops and interests in the region. The United States aims to intensify economic and military pressure on Iran because of its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes as well as its support for proxy groups in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen. US President Donald Trump antagonized Iran, and dismayed key US allies, last year when he exited a 2015 deal between Tehran and world powers under which Tehran curbed its nuclear program in return for an easing of most international sanctions. Trump denounced the deal, signed before he took office, as flawed and reimposed tough financial sanctions on Iran that were subsequently extended to its lifeblood oil exports. Trump said on Thursday that Iran was failing as a nation, under the pressure of his sanctions, and repeated his call for talks with the leadership in Tehran. Mousavi on Friday dismissed Trump's comments as "repetitive, groundless and paradoxical” and said they did not merit a response.

New US sanctions show offer of talks not genuine: Iranian foreign ministry

Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran.

A government official told that Tokyo was still arranging details, including who Abe will meet, but local media have said he will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-abe-to-meet-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-to-mediate-with-us-report-223544">hold talks </a>with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani.

As tensions intensify between Iran and Japan's key ally the United States, Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a go-between by directly holding talks with Iran's key leaders.

"We believe it is extremely important that, at the leadership level, we call on Iran as a major regional power to ease tension, to adhere to the nuclear agreement and to play a constructive role for the region's stability," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular press briefing.

The visit, from June 12-14, will be the first by a Japanese leader in 41 years, Suga said.

During his state visit to Tokyo in late May, US President Donald Trump said he remained open to talks with Tehran, appearing to give the green light to Abe's plan.

Abe told a news conference with Trump: "By closely cooperating between Japan and the US, I would like to help ease the current tension surrounding the Iranian situation."

Japan and Iran have maintained a good relationship as resource-poor Japan relies heavily on imports of oil from the Middle East, though crude from Iran accounted for just 5.3 per cent of the country's total imports last year.

On the other hand, Iranian and US leaders have ratcheted up barbs and insults ever since Trump was elected as president in 2016.

Living up to his campaign promises, Trump withdrew the US in May 2018 from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major world powers, and reimposed sanctions.

The war of words intensified after Iran's revolutionary guards were designated a "terrorist organisation", with Tehran hitting back by declaring the US a "state sponsor of terrorism" and Washington's forces in the region "terrorist groups".

Fears the war of words could flare into a military clash escalated when Washington dispatched the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group, an amphibious assault ship, a Patriot missile battery and B-52 bombers to the region.&nbsp;

Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran.

Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran. A government official told that Tokyo was still arranging details, including who Abe will meet, but local media have said he will hold talks with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani. As tensions intensify between Iran and Japan's key ally the United States, Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a go-between by directly holding talks with Iran's key leaders. "We believe it is extremely important that, at the leadership level, we call on Iran as a major regional power to ease tension, to adhere to the nuclear agreement and to play a constructive role for the region's stability," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular press briefing. The visit, from June 12-14, will be the first by a Japanese leader in 41 years, Suga said. During his state visit to Tokyo in late May, US President Donald Trump said he remained open to talks with Tehran, appearing to give the green light to Abe's plan. Abe told a news conference with Trump: "By closely cooperating between Japan and the US, I would like to help ease the current tension surrounding the Iranian situation." Japan and Iran have maintained a good relationship as resource-poor Japan relies heavily on imports of oil from the Middle East, though crude from Iran accounted for just 5.3 per cent of the country's total imports last year. On the other hand, Iranian and US leaders have ratcheted up barbs and insults ever since Trump was elected as president in 2016. Living up to his campaign promises, Trump withdrew the US in May 2018 from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major world powers, and reimposed sanctions. The war of words intensified after Iran's revolutionary guards were designated a "terrorist organisation", with Tehran hitting back by declaring the US a "state sponsor of terrorism" and Washington's forces in the region "terrorist groups". Fears the war of words could flare into a military clash escalated when Washington dispatched the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier group, an amphibious assault ship, a Patriot missile battery and B-52 bombers to the region.

Japanese Prime Minister Abe set for mediation mission to Iran

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-a-war-coming-between-the-us-and-iran-219109">war with Iran</a>, three US officials said on Thursday.

"He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Trump has communicated to his national security team and other aides that wants to keep tensions with Tehran from boiling over into an armed conflict, the officials said.

But he has also made clear that he will protect US&nbsp;interests in the region, one official said. US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US officials took as a threat against American targets in the region.

Trump won the 2016 election in part by promising to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Earlier this year he ordered US&nbsp;troops out of Syria but was persuaded to leave some in.

Trump told reporters on Thursday that he hoped the United States was not heading to war with Iran as he met with Switzerland President Ueli Maurer, whose nation has served as a liaison conduit between the two countries since they do not have diplomatic relations.&nbsp;

"Hope not," Trump said when asked by reporters if Washington was going to war with Tehran.

Tensions have escalated in recent days with increasing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict. Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf.

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"The president has been clear, the United States does not seek military conflict with Iran, and he is open to talks with Iranian leadership. However, Iran’s default option for 40 years has been violence, and we will protect US&nbsp;personnel and interests in the region," said Garrett Marquis, spokesman for the White House National Security Council.

A White House statement said the two leaders discussed "a range of international issues, including the crises in the Middle East and in Venezuela."

Trump has said publicly he wants to pursue a diplomatic route with Iran a year after withdrawing the United States from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. He has said privately that he was worried that some of his advisers, such as White House national security adviser John Bolton, were pushing for war, two officials said.

The Pentagon has prepared options for potentially sending US&nbsp;troops to the region if needed ranging from a relatively small number of troops up to 120,000, although officials stressed these are the types of options that are always considered for hot zones.

White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told Fox News Channel`s "Fox &amp; Friends" that there is no friction between Trump and his advisers and he welcomes different viewpoints.

"He’s the one the American people elected. He’s going to take in the information and the guidance from all of his national security team and he then will make a decision on what he thinks is the best and safest thing for the American people," she said.

US&nbsp;House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday welcomed what she called Trump`s lack of "appetite" for military conflict with Tehran.

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war.

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Trump has communicated to his national security team and other aides that wants to keep tensions with Tehran from boiling over into an armed conflict, the officials said. But he has also made clear that he will protect US interests in the region, one official said. US intelligence showed heightened activity by Iran or its proxies that US officials took as a threat against American targets in the region. Trump won the 2016 election in part by promising to stay out of conflicts abroad after what he viewed as costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Earlier this year he ordered US troops out of Syria but was persuaded to leave some in. Trump told reporters on Thursday that he hoped the United States was not heading to war with Iran as he met with Switzerland President Ueli Maurer, whose nation has served as a liaison conduit between the two countries since they do not have diplomatic relations. "Hope not," Trump said when asked by reporters if Washington was going to war with Tehran. Tensions have escalated in recent days with increasing concerns about a potential US-Iran conflict. Earlier this week the United States pulled some diplomatic staff from its embassy in Baghdad following weekend attacks on four oil tankers in the Gulf. × "The president has been clear, the United States does not seek military conflict with Iran, and he is open to talks with Iranian leadership. However, Iran’s default option for 40 years has been violence, and we will protect US personnel and interests in the region," said Garrett Marquis, spokesman for the White House National Security Council. A White House statement said the two leaders discussed "a range of international issues, including the crises in the Middle East and in Venezuela." Trump has said publicly he wants to pursue a diplomatic route with Iran a year after withdrawing the United States from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. He has said privately that he was worried that some of his advisers, such as White House national security adviser John Bolton, were pushing for war, two officials said. The Pentagon has prepared options for potentially sending US troops to the region if needed ranging from a relatively small number of troops up to 120,000, although officials stressed these are the types of options that are always considered for hot zones. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told Fox News Channel`s "Fox & Friends" that there is no friction between Trump and his advisers and he welcomes different viewpoints. "He’s the one the American people elected. He’s going to take in the information and the guidance from all of his national security team and he then will make a decision on what he thinks is the best and safest thing for the American people," she said. US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday welcomed what she called Trump`s lack of "appetite" for military conflict with Tehran.

Trump tells aides he does not want US war with Iran

The US on Thursday warned of giving a "swift and decisive" response to Iran`s "threatening actions", amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-us-tensions-escalate-as-trump-imposes-new-sanctions-217272">mounting tensions between the two countries</a>.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran has engaged in an escalating series of threatening actions and statements in recent weeks. The response of the United States and our partners and allies has been clear: We do not seek war," US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said in a statement.

"But Iran`s forty years of killing American soldiers, attacking American facilities, and taking American hostages is a constant reminder that we must defend ourselves," he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vows-more-sanctions-for-iran-tells-europe-to-stop-doing-business-with-tehran-217159">US vows more sanctions for Iran, tells Europe to stop doing business with Tehran</a>

Pompeo further said, "The regime in Tehran should understand that any attacks by them or their proxies of any identity against US interests or citizens will be answered with a swift and decisive US response. Our restraint to this point should not be mistaken by Iran for a lack of resolve."

Pompeo accused Iran of indulging in "violence," which he said, has been the regime`s "default option".

"To date, the regime`s default option has been violence and we appeal to those in Tehran who see a path to a prosperous future through de-escalation to modify the regime`s behaviour. As President Trump stated yesterday, he `looks forward to someday meeting with leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves`," he further said.

Earlier in the day, Trump said that the US is "open to talks" with Iran, urging Tehran to "call him" and make a "fair deal" with Washington.

Ties between the US and Iran soured after Washington pulled out from the 2015 nuclear deal or the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) last year.

Following this, the US slapped a multitude of sanctions on Iran, citing the latter`s support to state-sponsored terrorism and conflicts.

On Wednesday, the Trump administration imposed fresh sanctions on Iran targetting its steel and mining industries, amid rising tensions between the two nations.

The sanctions were slapped on Iran`s steel, aluminium, iron, and copper sectors and the move came after Tehran announced its partial withdrawal from the nuclear deal.

The partial withdrawal would mean that Iran would stop exporting enriched uranium stocks as against what was stipulated by the 2015 agreement.

Tehran warned that the remaining signatories -- the UK, France, Germany, China, and Russia -- had 60 days before it would resume high-level enrichment of uranium.

Meanwhile, the US has said it would continue to "impose maximum pressure" against Iran till the regime gives up its "destabilising ambitions" of expanding its nuclear programme.

Washington also recently announced that no fresh sanction waivers will be issued for Iranian oil imports to eight countries, including India.&nbsp;

The US on Thursday warned of giving a "swift and decisive" response to Iran`s "threatening actions", amid mounting tensions between the two countries. "The Islamic Republic of Iran has engaged in an escalating series of threatening actions and statements in recent weeks.

The US on Thursday warned of giving a "swift and decisive" response to Iran`s "threatening actions", amid mounting tensions between the two countries. "The Islamic Republic of Iran has engaged in an escalating series of threatening actions and statements in recent weeks. The response of the United States and our partners and allies has been clear: We do not seek war," US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said in a statement. "But Iran`s forty years of killing American soldiers, attacking American facilities, and taking American hostages is a constant reminder that we must defend ourselves," he added. Also read: US vows more sanctions for Iran, tells Europe to stop doing business with Tehran Pompeo further said, "The regime in Tehran should understand that any attacks by them or their proxies of any identity against US interests or citizens will be answered with a swift and decisive US response. Our restraint to this point should not be mistaken by Iran for a lack of resolve." Pompeo accused Iran of indulging in "violence," which he said, has been the regime`s "default option". "To date, the regime`s default option has been violence and we appeal to those in Tehran who see a path to a prosperous future through de-escalation to modify the regime`s behaviour. As President Trump stated yesterday, he `looks forward to someday meeting with leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves`," he further said. Earlier in the day, Trump said that the US is "open to talks" with Iran, urging Tehran to "call him" and make a "fair deal" with Washington. Ties between the US and Iran soured after Washington pulled out from the 2015 nuclear deal or the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) last year. Following this, the US slapped a multitude of sanctions on Iran, citing the latter`s support to state-sponsored terrorism and conflicts. On Wednesday, the Trump administration imposed fresh sanctions on Iran targetting its steel and mining industries, amid rising tensions between the two nations. The sanctions were slapped on Iran`s steel, aluminium, iron, and copper sectors and the move came after Tehran announced its partial withdrawal from the nuclear deal. The partial withdrawal would mean that Iran would stop exporting enriched uranium stocks as against what was stipulated by the 2015 agreement. Tehran warned that the remaining signatories -- the UK, France, Germany, China, and Russia -- had 60 days before it would resume high-level enrichment of uranium. Meanwhile, the US has said it would continue to "impose maximum pressure" against Iran till the regime gives up its "destabilising ambitions" of expanding its nuclear programme. Washington also recently announced that no fresh sanction waivers will be issued for Iranian oil imports to eight countries, including India.

US threatens 'swift, decisive' response to any Iran attack

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Saturday said Iran must counter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-file-legal-case-against-us-for-sanctions-hassan-rouhani-204088">US sanctions</a> by continuing to export its oil as well as boosting non-oil exports.

Rouhani's comments, carried live on Iranian TV, came a day after Washington acted to force Iran to stop producing low-enriched uranium and expanding its only nuclear power plant, intensifying a campaign aimed at halting its ballistic missile programme and curbing its regional power.

"America is trying to decrease our foreign reserves ... So we have to increase our hard currency income and cut our currency expenditures," Rouhani said.

"Last year, we had we non-oil exports of $43 billion. We should increase production and raise our (non-oil) exports and resist America's plots against the sale of our oil."

Friday's move, which Rouhani made no direct reference to, was the third punitive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-is-loser-by-abandoning-iran-nuclear-deal-rouhani-171418">US action</a> taken against Iran in as many weeks.

Last week, it said it would stop waivers for countries buying Iranian oil, in an attempt to push Iran's oil exports to zero. The United States also blacklisted Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Efforts by the Trump administration to impose political and economic isolation on Tehran began with last year's US withdrawal from the nuclear deal it and other world powers negotiated with Iran in 2015.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Saturday said Iran must counter US sanctions by continuing to export its oil as well as boosting non-oil exports. Rouhani's comments, carried live on Iranian TV, came a day after Washington acted to force Iran to stop producing low-enriched uranium and expanding its only nuclear power plant, intensifying a campaign aimed at halting its ballistic missile programme and curbing its regional power.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Saturday said Iran must counter US sanctions by continuing to export its oil as well as boosting non-oil exports. Rouhani's comments, carried live on Iranian TV, came a day after Washington acted to force Iran to stop producing low-enriched uranium and expanding its only nuclear power plant, intensifying a campaign aimed at halting its ballistic missile programme and curbing its regional power. "America is trying to decrease our foreign reserves ... So we have to increase our hard currency income and cut our currency expenditures," Rouhani said. "Last year, we had we non-oil exports of $43 billion. We should increase production and raise our (non-oil) exports and resist America's plots against the sale of our oil." Friday's move, which Rouhani made no direct reference to, was the third punitive US action taken against Iran in as many weeks. Last week, it said it would stop waivers for countries buying Iranian oil, in an attempt to push Iran's oil exports to zero. The United States also blacklisted Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard Corps. Efforts by the Trump administration to impose political and economic isolation on Tehran began with last year's US withdrawal from the nuclear deal it and other world powers negotiated with Iran in 2015.

Iran must resist US sanctions through oil, non-oil exports: Iran President Rouhani