After US President Joe Biden said he "stands with the Cuban people", President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the US sanctions for the protests in the country.

Biden had said the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/down-with-communism-cuban-protesters-demand-freedom-food-and-covid-19-vaccines-397504"> Cuban</a> regime should hear its people and "serve their needs" as protests erupted against the government even as Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the US sanctions were responsible for the "policy of economic suffocation to provoke social unrest in the country."

Watch:

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US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan had warned Cuba earlier while condemning&nbsp;the authorities the "targeting of peaceful protesters".

Meanwhile, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador&nbsp;offered medicines&nbsp;with coronavirus vaccines, however, he warned against "interventionist political management".

Obrador had called for the US economic sanctions to end as protesters came out on the streets on Sunday&nbsp;over the shortage of basic needs in the country. The Cuban President called for a "humanitarian gesture" as Cubans called President Miguel to step down.

People came out on the streets in Havana and several others places including Santiago as the country struggles amid the pandemic. It was the largest anti-government protest in decades as people chanted “Diaz-Canel step down”.

At least ten&nbsp;people were arrested by authorities.

Amid the volatile situation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-warns-against-outside-interference-over-cuba-protests-397672">Russia's</a> foreign ministry said it is "unacceptable" for there to be outside interference in the internal affairs of the country.

The country has been hit hard due to the pandemic with the vaccine drive going at a slow rate even as the country's economy has contracted in the past year.

On Sunday, Cuba recorded &nbsp;6,923 COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths with hospitals under pressure to treat patients.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

After US President Joe Biden said he "stands with the Cuban people", President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the US sanctions for the protests in the country. Biden had said the Cuban regime should hear its people and "serve their needs" as protests erupted against the government even as Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the US sanctions were responsible for the "policy of economic suffocation to provoke social unrest in the country.

After US President Joe Biden said he "stands with the Cuban people", President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the US sanctions for the protests in the country. Biden had said the Cuban regime should hear its people and "serve their needs" as protests erupted against the government even as Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the US sanctions were responsible for the "policy of economic suffocation to provoke social unrest in the country." Watch: US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan had warned Cuba earlier while condemning the authorities the "targeting of peaceful protesters". Meanwhile, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador offered medicines with coronavirus vaccines, however, he warned against "interventionist political management". Obrador had called for the US economic sanctions to end as protesters came out on the streets on Sunday over the shortage of basic needs in the country. The Cuban President called for a "humanitarian gesture" as Cubans called President Miguel to step down. People came out on the streets in Havana and several others places including Santiago as the country struggles amid the pandemic. It was the largest anti-government protest in decades as people chanted “Diaz-Canel step down”. At least ten people were arrested by authorities. Amid the volatile situation, Russia's foreign ministry said it is "unacceptable" for there to be outside interference in the internal affairs of the country. The country has been hit hard due to the pandemic with the vaccine drive going at a slow rate even as the country's economy has contracted in the past year. On Sunday, Cuba recorded 6,923 COVID-19 cases and 47 deaths with hospitals under pressure to treat patients. (With inputs from Agencies)

Cuban President blames US sanctions for anti-government protests

Cuba said on Thursday it would temporarily stop accepting cash bank deposits in dollars, blaming tighter U.S. sanctions that are restricting its ability to use greenbacks abroad, although it will still accept transfers.

The move came shortly before the government was due to present its annual resolution to end the crippling, decades-old U.S. trade embargo on the Communist-run country at the United Nations General Assembly.

Some Cubans and analysts speculated it was an attempt to control the black market price of the dollar. That has risen to more than twice the official exchange rate since the import-dependent country started opening stores selling in hard currency and stopped selling greenbacks due to a cash crunch.

Cuban bank account holders will have until June 21 to deposit dollars before the suspension takes effect.

"It is ever more difficult for Cuba to find international banking or financing institutions willing to receive, convert or process U.S. currency in cash," the Cuban Central Bank said in a statement shared by state-run media.

It added that the measure would not affect operations carried out by transfer or deposits in other currencies that are freely convertible and accepted in Cuba.

More than 20 banks have stopped processing transactions involving Cuba since former President Donald Trump tightened U.S. sanctions on the island nation, Central Bank Vice President Yamile Berra Cires said in a roundtable discussion on state television.

For many years, Cuba had a 10% tax on dollars, citing how difficult it was for the government to use them because of the U.S. embargo.&nbsp;

But it lifted that tax last year as it opened more shops selling in hard cash rather than in the local currency.

U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, vowed during his campaign to reverse some of Republican Trump`s Cuba measures that “have inflicted harm on the Cuban people and done nothing to advance democracy and human rights.”

But he has yet to roll back any measures and his administration has said a shift in policy toward Cuba is not among its top foreign policy priorities.

Cuba said on Thursday it would temporarily stop accepting cash bank deposits in dollars, blaming tighter U.S. sanctions that are restricting its ability to use greenbacks abroad, although it will still accept transfers.

Cuba said on Thursday it would temporarily stop accepting cash bank deposits in dollars, blaming tighter U.S. sanctions that are restricting its ability to use greenbacks abroad, although it will still accept transfers. The move came shortly before the government was due to present its annual resolution to end the crippling, decades-old U.S. trade embargo on the Communist-run country at the United Nations General Assembly. Some Cubans and analysts speculated it was an attempt to control the black market price of the dollar. That has risen to more than twice the official exchange rate since the import-dependent country started opening stores selling in hard currency and stopped selling greenbacks due to a cash crunch. Cuban bank account holders will have until June 21 to deposit dollars before the suspension takes effect. "It is ever more difficult for Cuba to find international banking or financing institutions willing to receive, convert or process U.S. currency in cash," the Cuban Central Bank said in a statement shared by state-run media. It added that the measure would not affect operations carried out by transfer or deposits in other currencies that are freely convertible and accepted in Cuba. More than 20 banks have stopped processing transactions involving Cuba since former President Donald Trump tightened U.S. sanctions on the island nation, Central Bank Vice President Yamile Berra Cires said in a roundtable discussion on state television. For many years, Cuba had a 10% tax on dollars, citing how difficult it was for the government to use them because of the U.S. embargo. But it lifted that tax last year as it opened more shops selling in hard cash rather than in the local currency. U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, vowed during his campaign to reverse some of Republican Trump`s Cuba measures that “have inflicted harm on the Cuban people and done nothing to advance democracy and human rights.” But he has yet to roll back any measures and his administration has said a shift in policy toward Cuba is not among its top foreign policy priorities.

Cuba suspending cash bank deposits in dollars, citing US sanctions

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that hundreds of US sanctions will remain on Iran even if the United States rejoins the 2015 nuclear accord. Blinken said the sanctions will remain in place until Iran's behaviour changes.

Antony Blinken says hundreds of sanctions to remain on Iran even if US rejoins nuclear deal

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said on Tuesday she had asked the United States for further sanctions on individuals and companies supporting the Belarus government. 
 
The Biden administration said on Friday it was drawing up a list of targeted sanctions against key members of the Belarusian government following the former Soviet republic`s forced landing of a passenger jet and arrest of a journalist Roman Protasevich and his girlfriend Sofia Sapega on board. 
 
Speaking in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius where she is based, Tsikhanouskaya said she welcomed a decision by the United States to introduce sanctions against Belarusian state-owned oil companies starting from June 3rd. 
 
"But we also ask for futher measures in targeted sanctions against enterprises and individuals supporting the regime", Tsikhanouskaya said after a meeting with Democratic and Republican senators from the US&nbsp;Foreign Relations Committee. 
 
"Sanctions should help to stop the violence and help release of all political prisoners", she added. 
 
Senator Jeanne Shaheen told reporters Belarus President Alexander Lukashenka should release Protasevich and Sapega immediately, and unharmed, and Lukashenka would be held accountable for their wellbeing. 
 
The United States would do everything it could to support the efforts of the Belarusian people efforts towards democracy, Shaheen added. 
 
"To Lukashenko, I say, it`s time for you to go. Make room for a democratically elected leader, more deserving of your people", Shaheen said.

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said on Tuesday she had asked the United States for further sanctions on individuals and companies supporting the Belarus government.

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said on Tuesday she had asked the United States for further sanctions on individuals and companies supporting the Belarus government. The Biden administration said on Friday it was drawing up a list of targeted sanctions against key members of the Belarusian government following the former Soviet republic`s forced landing of a passenger jet and arrest of a journalist Roman Protasevich and his girlfriend Sofia Sapega on board. Speaking in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius where she is based, Tsikhanouskaya said she welcomed a decision by the United States to introduce sanctions against Belarusian state-owned oil companies starting from June 3rd. "But we also ask for futher measures in targeted sanctions against enterprises and individuals supporting the regime", Tsikhanouskaya said after a meeting with Democratic and Republican senators from the US Foreign Relations Committee. "Sanctions should help to stop the violence and help release of all political prisoners", she added. Senator Jeanne Shaheen told reporters Belarus President Alexander Lukashenka should release Protasevich and Sapega immediately, and unharmed, and Lukashenka would be held accountable for their wellbeing. The United States would do everything it could to support the efforts of the Belarusian people efforts towards democracy, Shaheen added. "To Lukashenko, I say, it`s time for you to go. Make room for a democratically elected leader, more deserving of your people", Shaheen said.

Belarus opposition leader calls for more US sanctions

Ethiopia staged a massive rally on Sunday in Addis Ababa to rail against the United States imposing restrictions on economic and security assistance over the conflict in the Tigray region.

Ethiopia protests against US over Tigray restrictions

The US has imposed sanctions on six Pakistani nationals and four of their organisations for aiding Russian companies to evade sanctions by fraudulent measures.&nbsp;

The US Department of Treasury in a statement said that Pakistan nationals who are sanctioned are: Mohsin Raza, Mujtaba Raza, Syed Hasnain, Muhammad Hayat, Syed Raza and Shahzad Ahmed. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It also mentioned the companies, namely, Second Eye Solution (SES), also known as Forwarderz, along with its three other frontals Fresh Air Farm House, Like Wise, and MK.

Watch |&nbsp;

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The sanctions were part of measures taken against individuals and entities that tried to allegedly influence the 2020 US presidential election.&nbsp;

"Treasury will target Russian leaders, officials, intelligence services, and their proxies that attempt to interfere in the US electoral process or subvert US democracy," Treasury Secretary Janet L Yellen was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

She added that this is the beginning of a new Washington campaign against the Kremlin's malign behaviour.

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-russia-expels-10-diplomats-377760">US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack</a>

The US department alleged that Second Eye Solution (SES) is an organisation that specialises in making and selling fraudulent identities and has helped the banned Russian Internet Research Agency or IRA, the troll farm, in hiding its identity to evade sanctions.

 
&nbsp;

The US has imposed sanctions on six Pakistani nationals and four of their organisations for aiding Russian companies to evade sanctions by fraudulent measures. The US Department of Treasury in a statement said that Pakistan nationals who are sanctioned are: Mohsin Raza, Mujtaba Raza, Syed Hasnain, Muhammad Hayat, Syed Raza and Shahzad Ahmed.

The US has imposed sanctions on six Pakistani nationals and four of their organisations for aiding Russian companies to evade sanctions by fraudulent measures. The US Department of Treasury in a statement said that Pakistan nationals who are sanctioned are: Mohsin Raza, Mujtaba Raza, Syed Hasnain, Muhammad Hayat, Syed Raza and Shahzad Ahmed. It also mentioned the companies, namely, Second Eye Solution (SES), also known as Forwarderz, along with its three other frontals Fresh Air Farm House, Like Wise, and MK. Watch | The sanctions were part of measures taken against individuals and entities that tried to allegedly influence the 2020 US presidential election. "Treasury will target Russian leaders, officials, intelligence services, and their proxies that attempt to interfere in the US electoral process or subvert US democracy," Treasury Secretary Janet L Yellen was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. She added that this is the beginning of a new Washington campaign against the Kremlin's malign behaviour. Also read | US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack The US department alleged that Second Eye Solution (SES) is an organisation that specialises in making and selling fraudulent identities and has helped the banned Russian Internet Research Agency or IRA, the troll farm, in hiding its identity to evade sanctions.

US imposes sanctions on 6 Pakistani nationals for aiding Russian companies

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

The reaction came after the US media reported that Washington on Thursday will impose sanctions on over 30 Russian entities, expel more than 10 Russian diplomats&nbsp;from the US, and push an existing ban on US banks transacting in Russian government debt.

Watch |&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nato-warned-russia-against-military-build-up-near-ukrainian-border-377642/embed" width="560"></iframe>

"What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Biden invited Putin in a phone call for a summit on the neutral ground after tensions between the West and Russia intensified in recent weeks over the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-slap-new-sanctions-on-russia-for-election-interference-cyber-attack-sources-377685">US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources</a>

The Kremlin spokesperson, however, said that it will up to both the president to decide whether the summit could go ahead or not.&nbsp;

A Russian troop formation on the Ukrainian border, where the government forces have been fighting pro-Russia separatists since 2014 has caused concerns in the West and issued warnings by NATO.&nbsp;

Though, in the Putin-Biden phone call, both leaders called for continual dialogue after ties between both the nations reached a new low when Biden described his Russian counterpart as a "killer" last month.

&nbsp; 
(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

Russia on Thursday said that the US sanctions for alleged election interference and hacking will "not help" a possible summit between US President Joe Biden and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The reaction came after the US media reported that Washington on Thursday will impose sanctions on over 30 Russian entities, expel more than 10 Russian diplomats from the US, and push an existing ban on US banks transacting in Russian government debt. Watch | "What is currently being discussed -- likely sanctions -- will in no way help such a meeting. That is unambiguous," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists, as reported by news agency AFP. On Tuesday, Biden invited Putin in a phone call for a summit on the neutral ground after tensions between the West and Russia intensified in recent weeks over the conflict in Ukraine. Also read | US to slap new sanctions on Russia for election interference, cyber attack: Sources The Kremlin spokesperson, however, said that it will up to both the president to decide whether the summit could go ahead or not. A Russian troop formation on the Ukrainian border, where the government forces have been fighting pro-Russia separatists since 2014 has caused concerns in the West and issued warnings by NATO. Though, in the Putin-Biden phone call, both leaders called for continual dialogue after ties between both the nations reached a new low when Biden described his Russian counterpart as a "killer" last month. (With inputs from agencies)

US sanctions on Russia won't 'help' Biden-Putin summit: Kremlin

US President Joe Biden has revoked&nbsp;sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on the top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court.

With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach.

Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda had launched an investigation into alleged war crimes by US military personnel in Afghanistan. Former secretary of state Mike Pompeo, to this end, last year denounced the "kangaroo court" in The Hague and imposed both financial sanctions and a US visa ban on its Gambian-born chief prosecutor.

Bensouda is leaving her job in June and will be replaced by British human rights lawyer Karim Khan, who now can open his work without the burden of looming sanctions.

The court in The Hague further annoyed the United States by opening an investigation into alleged war crimes in the Palestinian territories by Israel, a US ally which rejects the authority of the court.

Biden said the United States still has concerns with the ICC. But "the threat and imposition of financial sanctions against the Court, its personnel, and those who assist it are not an effective or appropriate strategy," he said in a statement.&nbsp;

Pompeo's successor, Antony Blinken, said the United States continued to "disagree strongly" with the moves on Afghanistan and Israel.

"We believe, however, that our concerns about these cases would be better addressed through engagement with all stakeholders in the ICC process rather than through the imposition of sanctions," Blinken said in a statement.

Biden revoked an executive order by Trump on the sanctions, also lifting sanctions against senior ICC official Phakiso Mochochoko and visa bans on other court staff.

Blinken said he was encouraged by reforms being undertaken by the court, which has also come under scrutiny over internal matters including judges' salaries.

He noted that the United States has supported specific international judicial initiatives to provide accountability for war crimes or crimes against humanity including in the Balkans, Cambodia and Rwanda.

Blinken announced the decision days before the administration needed to respond to a lawsuit against Trump's executive order filed by the Open Society Justice Initiative, which promotes human rights and democracy.

Human Rights Watch praised Biden for ending "this unprecedented&nbsp;and downright warped&nbsp;use of sanctions" and turning the page on Trump's "assault&nbsp;on the global rule of law."

Trump had, in his final weeks in office, granted clemency to three US troops convicted of crimes in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with one of the men later meeting him.

US President Joe Biden has revoked sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on the top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach.

US President Joe Biden has revoked sanctions imposed by Donald Trump on the top prosecutor of the International Criminal Court. With this, Biden is trying to resolve an intense disagreement with European allies as the new administration seeks a more cooperative approach. Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda had launched an investigation into alleged war crimes by US military personnel in Afghanistan. Former secretary of state Mike Pompeo, to this end, last year denounced the "kangaroo court" in The Hague and imposed both financial sanctions and a US visa ban on its Gambian-born chief prosecutor. Bensouda is leaving her job in June and will be replaced by British human rights lawyer Karim Khan, who now can open his work without the burden of looming sanctions. The court in The Hague further annoyed the United States by opening an investigation into alleged war crimes in the Palestinian territories by Israel, a US ally which rejects the authority of the court. Biden said the United States still has concerns with the ICC. But "the threat and imposition of financial sanctions against the Court, its personnel, and those who assist it are not an effective or appropriate strategy," he said in a statement. Pompeo's successor, Antony Blinken, said the United States continued to "disagree strongly" with the moves on Afghanistan and Israel. "We believe, however, that our concerns about these cases would be better addressed through engagement with all stakeholders in the ICC process rather than through the imposition of sanctions," Blinken said in a statement. Biden revoked an executive order by Trump on the sanctions, also lifting sanctions against senior ICC official Phakiso Mochochoko and visa bans on other court staff. Blinken said he was encouraged by reforms being undertaken by the court, which has also come under scrutiny over internal matters including judges' salaries. He noted that the United States has supported specific international judicial initiatives to provide accountability for war crimes or crimes against humanity including in the Balkans, Cambodia and Rwanda. Blinken announced the decision days before the administration needed to respond to a lawsuit against Trump's executive order filed by the Open Society Justice Initiative, which promotes human rights and democracy. Human Rights Watch praised Biden for ending "this unprecedented and downright warped use of sanctions" and turning the page on Trump's "assault on the global rule of law." Trump had, in his final weeks in office, granted clemency to three US troops convicted of crimes in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with one of the men later meeting him.

Biden lifts Trump sanctions on top Hague prosecutor, seeks cooperation

The U.S. sanctioned an additional 24 Chinese and Hong Kong officials over Beijing’s ongoing crackdown on the city. The move comes ahead of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's meeting with top Chinese diplomats in Alaska later this week.

US sanctions 24 Chinese and Hong Kong officials

According to reports, Iran has quietly moved record amounts of crude oil to top client China in recent months, while India's state refiners have added Iranian oil to their annual import plans on the assumption that US sanctions on the OPEC supplier will soon ease.

Reports: Iran slips record volume of oil into China, reaches out to Asian clients

A few hours before the US sanctions are to be lifted in Iran, the UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi landed in the country.

As US President Joe Biden urged 'careful diplomacy', Grossi arrived in Tehran and was welcomed by Iran's ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Kazem Gharibabadi and Iran Atomic Energy Organisation official Behrouz Kamalvandi.

"DG Grossi just arrived in Tehran and was received by the IAEO deputy, Kamalvandi and Ambassador Gharibabadi," Gharibabadi tweeted.

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DG Grossi just arrived in Tehran and was received by the IAEO deputy, Kamalvandi and Ambassador Gharibabadi. <a href="https://t.co/D4fY4lOISZ">pic.twitter.com/D4fY4lOISZ</a>
— Gharibabadi (@Gharibabadi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gharibabadi/status/1363179060852121601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The deadline, which has been set by Iranian lawmakers has a potential threat of suspension of some nuclear inspections, stoking international concern about a possible expulsion of UN inspectors.

However, Iran is adamant that it will not cease its operations with IAEA or expel its inspectors.

Grossi took to Twitter to announce his intentions from the visit and said he hopes these meetings with senior Iranian officials leads to "a mutually agreeable solution, compatible with Iranian law, so that the @IAEAorg can continue essential verification activities in Iran. Looking forward to success – this is in everybody’s interest."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uns-nuclear-watchdog-chief-arrives-in-tehran-iran-365126">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uns-nuclear-watchdog-chief-arrives-in-tehran-iran-365126/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Iran has told IAEA that it will be suspending "voluntary transparency measures", notably inspection visits to non-nuclear sites, including military sites suspected of nuclear-related activity if the United States has not lifted the sweeping sanctions from former president Donald Trump reimposed in 2018.

Meanwhile, the head of Iran's atomic body, Ali Akbar Salehi, confirmed on Sunday that the new measures, which were laid out in a law passed in December by the conservative-majority parliament, will go into effect on Tuesday.

He also added that as Iran is implementing the law and "the other side has not yet fulfilled its obligations to lift the sanctions, inspections beyond safeguard measures will be suspended."

"During tomorrow's (Sunday) meeting with Mr. Grossi, the IAEA's considerations in the framework of the safeguards agreement and bilateral cooperation will be reviewed and discussed," he added.

A few hours before the US sanctions are to be lifted in Iran, the UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi landed in the country. As US President Joe Biden urged 'careful diplomacy', Grossi arrived in Tehran and was welcomed by Iran's ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Kazem Gharibabadi and Iran Atomic Energy Organisation official Behrouz Kamalvandi.

A few hours before the US sanctions are to be lifted in Iran, the UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi landed in the country. As US President Joe Biden urged 'careful diplomacy', Grossi arrived in Tehran and was welcomed by Iran's ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Kazem Gharibabadi and Iran Atomic Energy Organisation official Behrouz Kamalvandi. "DG Grossi just arrived in Tehran and was received by the IAEO deputy, Kamalvandi and Ambassador Gharibabadi," Gharibabadi tweeted. DG Grossi just arrived in Tehran and was received by the IAEO deputy, Kamalvandi and Ambassador Gharibabadi. pic.twitter.com/D4fY4lOISZ — Gharibabadi (@Gharibabadi) February 20, 2021 × The deadline, which has been set by Iranian lawmakers has a potential threat of suspension of some nuclear inspections, stoking international concern about a possible expulsion of UN inspectors. However, Iran is adamant that it will not cease its operations with IAEA or expel its inspectors. Grossi took to Twitter to announce his intentions from the visit and said he hopes these meetings with senior Iranian officials leads to "a mutually agreeable solution, compatible with Iranian law, so that the @IAEAorg can continue essential verification activities in Iran. Looking forward to success – this is in everybody’s interest." WATCH| Iran has told IAEA that it will be suspending "voluntary transparency measures", notably inspection visits to non-nuclear sites, including military sites suspected of nuclear-related activity if the United States has not lifted the sweeping sanctions from former president Donald Trump reimposed in 2018. Meanwhile, the head of Iran's atomic body, Ali Akbar Salehi, confirmed on Sunday that the new measures, which were laid out in a law passed in December by the conservative-majority parliament, will go into effect on Tuesday. He also added that as Iran is implementing the law and "the other side has not yet fulfilled its obligations to lift the sanctions, inspections beyond safeguard measures will be suspended." "During tomorrow's (Sunday) meeting with Mr. Grossi, the IAEA's considerations in the framework of the safeguards agreement and bilateral cooperation will be reviewed and discussed," he added.

UN nuclear watchdog chief, Rafael Grossi, arrives in Iran ahead of US sanctions deadline

Myanmar's new junta leader has called on civil servants to return to work, urging them to stop mass gatherings to avoid spreading coronavirus as the US moved a step closer to imposing sanctions on him and his fellow generals.

Min Aung Hlaing's plea came as a sixth day of protests against him and his coup spanned the Southeast Asian country.

Britain said it was also considering measures it could apply to punish the February 1 takeover that halted an unsteady transition to democracy.

The coup and the detention of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi along with scores of others have prompted the biggest demonstrations since a 2007 "Saffron Revolution" that ultimately became a step towards democratic reforms.

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing addressed the protests for the first time in public, blaming "unscrupulous persons" for work stoppages in a growing civil disobedience movement by medics, teachers, railway workers and many other government employees.

"Those who are away from their duties are requested to return to their duties immediately for the interests of the country and people without focusing on the emotion," he said.

He also urged people to avoid gatherings, which he said would fuel the spread of the coronavirus.

Protesters gathered across the country on Thursday. Hundreds of workers lined a road in the capital Naypyitaw, chanting anti-junta slogans and carrying placards supporting Suu Kyi. Thousands demonstrated in the main city of Yangon, some taking a humorous approach, such as men dressed in short skirts.

The military launched the coup after what it said was widespread fraud in a November election, won by Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) in a landslide. The electoral commission had rejected those claims.

Suu Kyi, who was swept to power following a historic election victory in 2015, faces charges of illegally importing six walkie-talkie radios.

To this end, US President Joe Biden on Wednesday also approved an executive order for new sanctions on those responsible for the coup.

"The military must relinquish power it seized and demonstrate respect for the world and the people of Burma as expressed in their November 8th election," he said.

Suu Kyi won the 1991 Nobel Peace Prize for campaigning for democracy and remains hugely popular at home despite damage to her international reputation over the plight of the Rohingya.

She spent nearly 15 years under house arrest under previous juntas. Her lawyer says he has not been allowed to see her.

Min Aung Hlaing and other top generals are already under U.S. sanctions imposed in 2019 over abuses against Rohingya Muslims and other minorities.

(with inputs)

Myanmar's new junta leader has called on civil servants to return to work, urging them to stop mass gatherings to avoid spreading coronavirus as the US moved a step closer to imposing sanctions on him and his fellow generals.

Myanmar's new junta leader has called on civil servants to return to work, urging them to stop mass gatherings to avoid spreading coronavirus as the US moved a step closer to imposing sanctions on him and his fellow generals. Min Aung Hlaing's plea came as a sixth day of protests against him and his coup spanned the Southeast Asian country. Britain said it was also considering measures it could apply to punish the February 1 takeover that halted an unsteady transition to democracy. The coup and the detention of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi along with scores of others have prompted the biggest demonstrations since a 2007 "Saffron Revolution" that ultimately became a step towards democratic reforms. Senior General Min Aung Hlaing addressed the protests for the first time in public, blaming "unscrupulous persons" for work stoppages in a growing civil disobedience movement by medics, teachers, railway workers and many other government employees. "Those who are away from their duties are requested to return to their duties immediately for the interests of the country and people without focusing on the emotion," he said. He also urged people to avoid gatherings, which he said would fuel the spread of the coronavirus. Protesters gathered across the country on Thursday. Hundreds of workers lined a road in the capital Naypyitaw, chanting anti-junta slogans and carrying placards supporting Suu Kyi. Thousands demonstrated in the main city of Yangon, some taking a humorous approach, such as men dressed in short skirts. The military launched the coup after what it said was widespread fraud in a November election, won by Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) in a landslide. The electoral commission had rejected those claims. Suu Kyi, who was swept to power following a historic election victory in 2015, faces charges of illegally importing six walkie-talkie radios. To this end, US President Joe Biden on Wednesday also approved an executive order for new sanctions on those responsible for the coup. "The military must relinquish power it seized and demonstrate respect for the world and the people of Burma as expressed in their November 8th election," he said. Suu Kyi won the 1991 Nobel Peace Prize for campaigning for democracy and remains hugely popular at home despite damage to her international reputation over the plight of the Rohingya. She spent nearly 15 years under house arrest under previous juntas. Her lawyer says he has not been allowed to see her. Min Aung Hlaing and other top generals are already under U.S. sanctions imposed in 2019 over abuses against Rohingya Muslims and other minorities. (with inputs)

Myanmar's new junta leader calls for end to protests, sanctions loom

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price says the United States is "disappointed" by the UN's top court ruling that it can take up Iran's bid to overturn US nuclear sanctions reimposed by Donald Trump.

US 'disappointed' by UN court's decision to take up Iran-US sanctions case

The United States has slapped sanctions on Cuba’s interior ministry and its leaders, accusing them of serious human rights abuses.

In a statement, the US Treasury Department mentioned Cuban dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer, saying he had been detained in a prison controlled by the ministry and was reportedly beaten and tortured.

“The United States will continue to use all the tools at its disposal to address the dire human rights situation in Cuba and elsewhere around the world,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in the statement.

Washington also blacklisted Cuban Interior Minister Lazaro Alberto Álvarez Casas.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Twitter denounced the Trump administration’s move as “a coercive measure against our country.”

The measures against the ministry and Brigadier Gen. L'zaro Alberto lvarez Casas include freezing any bank accounts they may have in the United States and blocking any business operations with US entities.

The new sanctions, which are largely symbolic, come less than a week before the end of Donald Trump's presidency, which has been characterized by strong hostility toward the Cuban government.

The sanctions will be implemented under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and directed "against the perpetrators of serious human rights abuses and corruption throughout the world," the US government said in a news release.

The statement cited the case of Cuban dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer, who was held in a prison controlled by the Interior Ministry. Ferrer reported being beaten, tortured, held in solitary confinement and denied medical attention at the prison.

The island's Ministry of the Interior oversees the internal order in the Caribbean nation and includes police, firefighters, the penitentiary system and border guards. The Cuban government does not recognise the legal status of dissidents, whom it often accuses of being manipulated and financed by American interest groups wanting to discredit the socialist government.

Trump reversed his predecessor Barack Obama’s diplomatic opening to Havana, tightened restrictions on U.S. travel and remittances to Cuba and imposed sanctions on shipments of Venezuelan oil to the Caribbean island.

Trump’s policy was popular among the large Cuban-American population in South Florida, helping him win the state in the November election though he lost the national vote to Joe Biden, who was Obama’s vice president.

Biden, who will take office on January 20, said during the campaign he would promptly reverse Trump policies that he said have harmed Cubans and “done nothing to advance democracy and human rights”.

The Trump administration announced on Monday it was returning Cuba to the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that could complicate any efforts by Biden to revive Obama-era detente with Havana.

The administration noted Cuba had hosted Colombia’s peace talks with rebels and said it was harboring guerilla leaders that the Colombian government now wanted returned.

(with inputs)

The United States has slapped sanctions on Cuba’s interior ministry and its leaders, accusing them of serious human rights abuses. In a statement, the US Treasury Department mentioned Cuban dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer, saying he had been detained in a prison controlled by the ministry and was reportedly beaten and tortured.

The United States has slapped sanctions on Cuba’s interior ministry and its leaders, accusing them of serious human rights abuses. In a statement, the US Treasury Department mentioned Cuban dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer, saying he had been detained in a prison controlled by the ministry and was reportedly beaten and tortured. “The United States will continue to use all the tools at its disposal to address the dire human rights situation in Cuba and elsewhere around the world,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in the statement. Washington also blacklisted Cuban Interior Minister Lazaro Alberto Álvarez Casas. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Twitter denounced the Trump administration’s move as “a coercive measure against our country.” The measures against the ministry and Brigadier Gen. L'zaro Alberto lvarez Casas include freezing any bank accounts they may have in the United States and blocking any business operations with US entities. The new sanctions, which are largely symbolic, come less than a week before the end of Donald Trump's presidency, which has been characterized by strong hostility toward the Cuban government. The sanctions will be implemented under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and directed "against the perpetrators of serious human rights abuses and corruption throughout the world," the US government said in a news release. The statement cited the case of Cuban dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer, who was held in a prison controlled by the Interior Ministry. Ferrer reported being beaten, tortured, held in solitary confinement and denied medical attention at the prison. The island's Ministry of the Interior oversees the internal order in the Caribbean nation and includes police, firefighters, the penitentiary system and border guards. The Cuban government does not recognise the legal status of dissidents, whom it often accuses of being manipulated and financed by American interest groups wanting to discredit the socialist government. Trump reversed his predecessor Barack Obama’s diplomatic opening to Havana, tightened restrictions on U.S. travel and remittances to Cuba and imposed sanctions on shipments of Venezuelan oil to the Caribbean island. Trump’s policy was popular among the large Cuban-American population in South Florida, helping him win the state in the November election though he lost the national vote to Joe Biden, who was Obama’s vice president. Biden, who will take office on January 20, said during the campaign he would promptly reverse Trump policies that he said have harmed Cubans and “done nothing to advance democracy and human rights”. The Trump administration announced on Monday it was returning Cuba to the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that could complicate any efforts by Biden to revive Obama-era detente with Havana. The administration noted Cuba had hosted Colombia’s peace talks with rebels and said it was harboring guerilla leaders that the Colombian government now wanted returned. (with inputs)

US imposes sanctions on Cuba citing human rights violations

China urged the United States and other countries to immediately stop wrongdoings, foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said on Thursday (January 14), after Washington announced an import ban on some imports from the Xinjiang region over forced labour allegations.

China urges US to stop wrongdoings over Xinjiang

Beijing has compelled its companies to either ignore US sanctions or face the consequences thereafter. The new rules prohibit Chinese companies from complying with punitive measures by the United States.

Chinese firms barred from complying with US sanctions

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that Tehran is in no rush for the United States to rejoin the 2015 Nuclear Agreement. He urged that sanctions imposed on Iran to be lifted.

Iran to US: Lift sanctions immediately

Washington may sanction those involved in the arrest of over 50 people in Hong Kong and will send the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations to visit Taiwan, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, drawing anger and the threat of retaliation from Beijing.

US warns of restrictions against Hong Kong authorities

The United States on Tuesday blacklisted a Chinese company that makes elements for steel production, 12 Iranian steel and metals makers and three foreign-based sales agents of an Iranian metals and mining holding company, seeking to deprive Iran of revenues as U.S. President Donald Trump`s term winds down.

The U.S. Treasury Department, in a statement, named the China-based company as Kaifeng Pingmei New Carbon Materials Technology Co Ltd. (KFCC), saying it specialized in the manufacture of carbon materials and provided thousands of metric tonnes of materials to Iranian steel companies between December 2019 and June 2020.

No one at KFCC, which makes graphite electrodes, was available for comment on Wednesday. Filings show the company is owned by Henan Yicheng New Energy, which said it was unaware of the situation.

Shares in Yicheng, which is ultimately controlled by China`s Henan province, fell as much as 6.7% to a two-week low on Wednesday. When Yicheng was buying KFCC in 2019, it said exports - to Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe - accounted for about half of KFCC`s core business.

Among the 12 Iranian companies blacklisted are the Pasargad Steel Complex and the Gilan Steel Complex Co, both of which were designated under Executive Order 13871 for operating in the Iranian steel sector.

The others are: Iran-based Middle East Mines and Mineral Industries Development Holding Co (MIDHCO), Khazar Steel Co, Vian Steel Complex, South Rouhina Steel Complex, Yazd Industrial Constructional Steel Rolling Mill, West Alborz Steel Complex, Esfarayen Industrial Complex, Bonab Steel Industry Complex, Sirjan Iranian Steel and Zarand Iranian Steel Co.

The Treasury said it was also designating MIDHCO’s Germany-based subsidiary GMI Projects Hamburg GmbH, its China-based World Mining Industry Co Ltd and U.K.-based GMI Projects Ltd for being owned or controlled by MIDHCO.

"The Trump Administration remains committed to denying revenue flowing to the Iranian regime as it continues to sponsor terrorist groups, support oppressive regimes, and seek weapons of mass destruction," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in the statement.

Trump`s term ends on Jan. 20, when Democrat President-elect Joe Biden is to be sworn in to succeed him.

The United States on Tuesday blacklisted a Chinese company that makes elements for steel production, 12 Iranian steel and metals makers and three foreign-based sales agents of an Iranian metals and mining holding company, seeking to deprive Iran of revenues as U.

The United States on Tuesday blacklisted a Chinese company that makes elements for steel production, 12 Iranian steel and metals makers and three foreign-based sales agents of an Iranian metals and mining holding company, seeking to deprive Iran of revenues as U.S. President Donald Trump`s term winds down. The U.S. Treasury Department, in a statement, named the China-based company as Kaifeng Pingmei New Carbon Materials Technology Co Ltd. (KFCC), saying it specialized in the manufacture of carbon materials and provided thousands of metric tonnes of materials to Iranian steel companies between December 2019 and June 2020. No one at KFCC, which makes graphite electrodes, was available for comment on Wednesday. Filings show the company is owned by Henan Yicheng New Energy, which said it was unaware of the situation. Shares in Yicheng, which is ultimately controlled by China`s Henan province, fell as much as 6.7% to a two-week low on Wednesday. When Yicheng was buying KFCC in 2019, it said exports - to Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe - accounted for about half of KFCC`s core business. Among the 12 Iranian companies blacklisted are the Pasargad Steel Complex and the Gilan Steel Complex Co, both of which were designated under Executive Order 13871 for operating in the Iranian steel sector. The others are: Iran-based Middle East Mines and Mineral Industries Development Holding Co (MIDHCO), Khazar Steel Co, Vian Steel Complex, South Rouhina Steel Complex, Yazd Industrial Constructional Steel Rolling Mill, West Alborz Steel Complex, Esfarayen Industrial Complex, Bonab Steel Industry Complex, Sirjan Iranian Steel and Zarand Iranian Steel Co. The Treasury said it was also designating MIDHCO’s Germany-based subsidiary GMI Projects Hamburg GmbH, its China-based World Mining Industry Co Ltd and U.K.-based GMI Projects Ltd for being owned or controlled by MIDHCO. "The Trump Administration remains committed to denying revenue flowing to the Iranian regime as it continues to sponsor terrorist groups, support oppressive regimes, and seek weapons of mass destruction," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in the statement. Trump`s term ends on Jan. 20, when Democrat President-elect Joe Biden is to be sworn in to succeed him.

US hits Iran with fresh sanctions as Trump term nears end

India's multi-billion dollar deal to purchase the Russia-made S-400 air defence system may trigger US sanctions on New Delhi, a US Congressional report has warned.

The Congressional Research Service (CRS) - an independent and bipartisan research wing of US Congress - in its latest report to Congress, said India is "eager for more technology-sharing and co-production initiatives, while the United States urges more reforms in India's defence offsets policy and higher Foreign Direct Investment caps in its defence sector."

Prepared for the members of the Congress for them to take informed decisions, the report went on to warn that "India's multi-billion dollar deal to purchase the Russia-made S-400 air defence system may trigger US sanctions on India under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act."

The CRS' reports are neither official reports of the US Congress nor reflect the view of Congressmen. They are prepared by independent experts for the lawmakers to take informed decisions.

In October 2018, India had signed a $5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, despite a warning from the Trump administration that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions.

In 2019, India made the first tranche of payment of around $800 million to Russia for the missile systems.

The S-400 is known as Russia's most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system.

Last month, Russia had said that implementation of its ongoing defence deals with India, including the supply of a batch of S-400 missile systems, is advancing well notwithstanding the threat of US sanctions.

At a press conference in New Delhi last month, Russian ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev appeared to criticise the US sanctions on Turkey for procuring the S-400 missile systems under a $2.5 billion deal, saying Moscow does not recognise such unilateral actions.

"We do not recognise or welcome unilateral sanctions as a language or tool or instrument of interstate or international relations, other than those applied by the UN Security Council," he said.

"As far as India is concerned, we share the same platform. India's position is also crystal clear. No sanctions are acknowledged other than those imposed by the UN Security Council. Whatever the future is, we believe that our ties could withstand the coming challenges," he said.

India's multi-billion dollar deal to purchase the Russia-made S-400 air defence system may trigger US sanctions on New Delhi, a US Congressional report has warned.

India's multi-billion dollar deal to purchase the Russia-made S-400 air defence system may trigger US sanctions on New Delhi, a US Congressional report has warned. The Congressional Research Service (CRS) - an independent and bipartisan research wing of US Congress - in its latest report to Congress, said India is "eager for more technology-sharing and co-production initiatives, while the United States urges more reforms in India's defence offsets policy and higher Foreign Direct Investment caps in its defence sector." Prepared for the members of the Congress for them to take informed decisions, the report went on to warn that "India's multi-billion dollar deal to purchase the Russia-made S-400 air defence system may trigger US sanctions on India under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act." The CRS' reports are neither official reports of the US Congress nor reflect the view of Congressmen. They are prepared by independent experts for the lawmakers to take informed decisions. In October 2018, India had signed a $5 billion deal with Russia to buy five units of the S-400 air defence missile systems, despite a warning from the Trump administration that going ahead with the contract may invite US sanctions. In 2019, India made the first tranche of payment of around $800 million to Russia for the missile systems. The S-400 is known as Russia's most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defence system. Last month, Russia had said that implementation of its ongoing defence deals with India, including the supply of a batch of S-400 missile systems, is advancing well notwithstanding the threat of US sanctions. At a press conference in New Delhi last month, Russian ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev appeared to criticise the US sanctions on Turkey for procuring the S-400 missile systems under a $2.5 billion deal, saying Moscow does not recognise such unilateral actions. "We do not recognise or welcome unilateral sanctions as a language or tool or instrument of interstate or international relations, other than those applied by the UN Security Council," he said. "As far as India is concerned, we share the same platform. India's position is also crystal clear. No sanctions are acknowledged other than those imposed by the UN Security Council. Whatever the future is, we believe that our ties could withstand the coming challenges," he said.

India's S-400 missile deal with Russia may trigger US sanctions: Report

The United States has placed a Cuban bank on a list of restricted entities, saying its profits "disproportionately benefit the Cuban military" and help fund "Cuba's interference in Venezuela."

The State Department announced the addition of the Banco Financiero International (BFI) to its Cuba Restricted List, which generally prohibits direct financial transactions with listed entities.

"BFI is a Cuban military-controlled commercial bank that benefits directly from financial transactions at the expense of the Cuban people" while giving "preferential access" to military and state companies, Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said in a statement.

To this end, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said in a tweet: "I reject new punitive measure of #US State Department to tighten blockade against #Cuba.

"The inclusion of Cuban entities in its lists is intended to reinforce an economic siege that has failed to destroy the Cuban Revolution after 62 years."

Washington's move came amid speculation that the Trump administration is weighing whether to redesignate the island as a state sponsor of terrorism. Such a move, which would severely impede foreign investment, could hinder the diplomacy of President-elect Joe Biden.

January 3 will mark the 60th anniversary of the United States severing relations with the island following its communist revolution.

Tensions eased under President Barack Obama, who established diplomatic relations and removed Cuba from the terror list in 2015.

Biden, who was Obama's vice president, has given only broad details of his Cuba policy but has indicated he would again relax some restrictions while still raising concerns on human rights.

The United States has placed a Cuban bank on a list of restricted entities, saying its profits "disproportionately benefit the Cuban military" and help fund "Cuba's interference in Venezuela.

The United States has placed a Cuban bank on a list of restricted entities, saying its profits "disproportionately benefit the Cuban military" and help fund "Cuba's interference in Venezuela." The State Department announced the addition of the Banco Financiero International (BFI) to its Cuba Restricted List, which generally prohibits direct financial transactions with listed entities. "BFI is a Cuban military-controlled commercial bank that benefits directly from financial transactions at the expense of the Cuban people" while giving "preferential access" to military and state companies, Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said in a statement. To this end, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said in a tweet: "I reject new punitive measure of #US State Department to tighten blockade against #Cuba. "The inclusion of Cuban entities in its lists is intended to reinforce an economic siege that has failed to destroy the Cuban Revolution after 62 years." Washington's move came amid speculation that the Trump administration is weighing whether to redesignate the island as a state sponsor of terrorism. Such a move, which would severely impede foreign investment, could hinder the diplomacy of President-elect Joe Biden. January 3 will mark the 60th anniversary of the United States severing relations with the island following its communist revolution. Tensions eased under President Barack Obama, who established diplomatic relations and removed Cuba from the terror list in 2015. Biden, who was Obama's vice president, has given only broad details of his Cuba policy but has indicated he would again relax some restrictions while still raising concerns on human rights.

US sanctions Cuban bank for links with military

The incoming White House chief of staff said on Sunday that President-elect Joe Biden`s response to the massive hacking campaign uncovered last week would go beyond sanctions. 
 
Ron Klain said Biden was mapping out ways to push back against the suspected Russian hackers who have penetrated half a dozen U.S. government agencies and left thousands of American companies exposed. 
 
"It`s not just sanctions. It`s steps and things we could do to degrade the capacity of foreign actors to engage in this sort of attack," Klain said on CBS` "Face the Nation."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/russia-dismisses-hacking-allegations-as-russophobia-336674" hreflang="en">Russia dismisses hacking allegations as 'Russophobia'</a> 
 
Options being mulled by the Biden administration to punish Moscow over its alleged role include financial penalties and retaliatory hacks on Russian infrastructure, people familiar with the matter have told Reuters. 
 
The Kremlin denies any role in the hacking. Speaking at an event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Russia`s SVR foreign intelligence agency, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised its work, saying he was impressed by the "difficult professional operations that have been conducted." 
 
Biden, who becomes president on Jan. 20, would likely have bipartisan support for a muscular reaction to the espionage campaign, lawmakers indicated on Sunday. 
 
Republican Senator Mitt Romney said the data breach was "extraordinarily damaging" on NBC`s "Meet the Press." 
 
"This demands a response," he said. "This is something we have to address as soon as possible." 
 
U.S. Senator Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said on ABC that the hack could still be going on and that officials had yet to determine its full scope. But he stopped short of the aggressive language used by Romney, who called the hack "an invasion".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-election-2020-white-house-official-expresses-concern-over-hacking-on-day-of-voting-333397" hreflang="en">US election 2020: White House official expresses concern over hacking on day of voting</a> 
 
"This is in that gray area between espionage and an attack," Warner said. Still, he backed Romney`s call for retaliation, saying Washington needed to make clear to adversaries "that if you take this kind of action we and others will strike back." 
 
Adam Schiff, the Democratic chair of the House Intelligence Committee, also said the United States would "have to deter and respond" - but also invest more in cyber defenses. 
 
He told MSNBC that, in some cases, the digital cleanup of U.S. networks "may mean burning down the whole system in order to make sure when we rebuild it they`re not present." 
 
Officials and cybersecurity professionals across the United States are still struggling to get their hands around the scale of the hacking campaign, which used U.S. tech company SolarWinds as a springboard to infect the Texas firm`s clients - including the Departments of Treasury, Commerce and Energy. 
 
Up to 18,000 customers were left open to the hackers, but CEO Kevin Mandia - whose company FireEye helped uncover the hacking - told CBS that he estimated "only around 50 organizations or companies, somewhere in that zone," were "genuinely impacted." 
 
Klain told CBS much was still unknown. 
 
"I think there`s still a lot of unanswered questions about the purpose, nature, and extent of these specific attacks," he said.

The incoming White House chief of staff said on Sunday that President-elect Joe Biden`s response to the massive hacking campaign uncovered last week would go beyond sanctions.

The incoming White House chief of staff said on Sunday that President-elect Joe Biden`s response to the massive hacking campaign uncovered last week would go beyond sanctions. Ron Klain said Biden was mapping out ways to push back against the suspected Russian hackers who have penetrated half a dozen U.S. government agencies and left thousands of American companies exposed. "It`s not just sanctions. It`s steps and things we could do to degrade the capacity of foreign actors to engage in this sort of attack," Klain said on CBS` "Face the Nation." Also read: Russia dismisses hacking allegations as 'Russophobia' Options being mulled by the Biden administration to punish Moscow over its alleged role include financial penalties and retaliatory hacks on Russian infrastructure, people familiar with the matter have told Reuters. The Kremlin denies any role in the hacking. Speaking at an event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Russia`s SVR foreign intelligence agency, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised its work, saying he was impressed by the "difficult professional operations that have been conducted." Biden, who becomes president on Jan. 20, would likely have bipartisan support for a muscular reaction to the espionage campaign, lawmakers indicated on Sunday. Republican Senator Mitt Romney said the data breach was "extraordinarily damaging" on NBC`s "Meet the Press." "This demands a response," he said. "This is something we have to address as soon as possible." U.S. Senator Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said on ABC that the hack could still be going on and that officials had yet to determine its full scope. But he stopped short of the aggressive language used by Romney, who called the hack "an invasion". Also read: US election 2020: White House official expresses concern over hacking on day of voting "This is in that gray area between espionage and an attack," Warner said. Still, he backed Romney`s call for retaliation, saying Washington needed to make clear to adversaries "that if you take this kind of action we and others will strike back." Adam Schiff, the Democratic chair of the House Intelligence Committee, also said the United States would "have to deter and respond" - but also invest more in cyber defenses. He told MSNBC that, in some cases, the digital cleanup of U.S. networks "may mean burning down the whole system in order to make sure when we rebuild it they`re not present." Officials and cybersecurity professionals across the United States are still struggling to get their hands around the scale of the hacking campaign, which used U.S. tech company SolarWinds as a springboard to infect the Texas firm`s clients - including the Departments of Treasury, Commerce and Energy. Up to 18,000 customers were left open to the hackers, but CEO Kevin Mandia - whose company FireEye helped uncover the hacking - told CBS that he estimated "only around 50 organizations or companies, somewhere in that zone," were "genuinely impacted." Klain told CBS much was still unknown. "I think there`s still a lot of unanswered questions about the purpose, nature, and extent of these specific attacks," he said.

President-elect Biden's chief of staff says hack response will go beyond 'just sanctions'

President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday U.S. sanctions imposed on Turkey over its purchase of Russian defence systems were a "hostile attack" on its sovereign rights and defence industry, and the move was bound to fail.

Erdogan says US sanctions an attack on ally Turkey's rights

Cash-strapped Cuba said it had attracted $1.9billion worth of foreign investment over the past year despite tighter United States sanctions.

World Business Watch: Cuba attracts $1.9 billion in FDI despite US sanctions

The United States on Monday imposed financial sanctions and a travel ban on 14 Chinese officials over their alleged role in Beijing’s disqualification last month of elected opposition legislators in Hong Kong.

The move, which was first reported by Reuters overnight and sent Asian stock markets lower, targeted the vice chairpersons of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee (NPCSC), the top decision-making body of the Chinese legislature.

The action was widely seen as part of an effort by outgoing President Donald Trump to cement his tough-on-China legacy and also box president-elect Joe Biden, before he takes office on Jan. 20, into hardline positions on Beijing at a time of bipartisan anti-China sentiment in Congress.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-bans-us-investments-in-companies-linked-to-chinese-military-348176" hreflang="en">Trump bans US investments in companies linked to Chinese military</a>

The Trump administration earlier slapped sanctions on Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, the Asian financial hub’s current and former police chiefs and other top officials in August for what it said was their role in curtailing freedoms in a crackdown on the territory’s pro-democracy movement.

“Beijing’s unrelenting assault against Hong Kong’s democratic processes has gutted its Legislative Council, rendering the body a rubber stamp devoid of meaningful opposition,” US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

Hong Kong’s Beijing-backed government last month expelled four opposition members from its legislature after China’s parliament gave city authorities new powers to curb dissent. The move triggered mass resignations by pro-democracy opposition lawmakers in the former British colony.

White House national security adviser Robert O’Brien said in November the expulsion showed the “One Country, Two Systems” formula, under which Hong Kong’s autonomy was to be safeguarded after Britain handed the territory back to China in 1997, was now “merely a fig leaf”, and he promised further U.S. action.

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Pompeo said the NPCSC has effectively “neutered” the ability of people in Hong Kong to choose their elected representatives. “These actions demonstrate once again Beijing’s complete disregard for its international commitments under the Sino-British Joint Declaration, a U.N.-registered treaty.”

Beijing’s action heightened alarm in the West. The Five Eyes intelligence-sharing group - comprised of Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand and the United States - said last month the move appeared to be part of a campaign to silence critics and called on China to reverse course.

The sanctions prohibit 14 individuals and their immediate members from travelling to the United States. Any assets the officials might have within the United States will be blocked and U.S. individuals and companies will be banned from dealing with them.

The news kept global markets on edge as investors fretted over fresh Sino-US tensions, which offset bets over more stimulus in Europe and the United States.

The United States on Monday imposed financial sanctions and a travel ban on 14 Chinese officials over their alleged role in Beijing’s disqualification last month of elected opposition legislators in Hong Kong.

The United States on Monday imposed financial sanctions and a travel ban on 14 Chinese officials over their alleged role in Beijing’s disqualification last month of elected opposition legislators in Hong Kong. The move, which was first reported by Reuters overnight and sent Asian stock markets lower, targeted the vice chairpersons of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee (NPCSC), the top decision-making body of the Chinese legislature. The action was widely seen as part of an effort by outgoing President Donald Trump to cement his tough-on-China legacy and also box president-elect Joe Biden, before he takes office on Jan. 20, into hardline positions on Beijing at a time of bipartisan anti-China sentiment in Congress. Also read| Trump bans US investments in companies linked to Chinese military The Trump administration earlier slapped sanctions on Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam, the Asian financial hub’s current and former police chiefs and other top officials in August for what it said was their role in curtailing freedoms in a crackdown on the territory’s pro-democracy movement. “Beijing’s unrelenting assault against Hong Kong’s democratic processes has gutted its Legislative Council, rendering the body a rubber stamp devoid of meaningful opposition,” US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. Hong Kong’s Beijing-backed government last month expelled four opposition members from its legislature after China’s parliament gave city authorities new powers to curb dissent. The move triggered mass resignations by pro-democracy opposition lawmakers in the former British colony. White House national security adviser Robert O’Brien said in November the expulsion showed the “One Country, Two Systems” formula, under which Hong Kong’s autonomy was to be safeguarded after Britain handed the territory back to China in 1997, was now “merely a fig leaf”, and he promised further U.S. action. × Pompeo said the NPCSC has effectively “neutered” the ability of people in Hong Kong to choose their elected representatives. “These actions demonstrate once again Beijing’s complete disregard for its international commitments under the Sino-British Joint Declaration, a U.N.-registered treaty.” Beijing’s action heightened alarm in the West. The Five Eyes intelligence-sharing group - comprised of Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand and the United States - said last month the move appeared to be part of a campaign to silence critics and called on China to reverse course. The sanctions prohibit 14 individuals and their immediate members from travelling to the United States. Any assets the officials might have within the United States will be blocked and U.S. individuals and companies will be banned from dealing with them. The news kept global markets on edge as investors fretted over fresh Sino-US tensions, which offset bets over more stimulus in Europe and the United States.

US slaps sanctions on 14 Chinese officials over Hong Kong crackdown

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said that she keeps 'piles of cash' at home because she has no bank account after the United States imposed sanctions on her.

Hong Kong leader says she has 'piles of cash' at home

After reports said the United States deployed aircraft carrier Nimitz along with ships to the Gulf on Wednesday shortly before the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-accuses-mercenary-israel-of-scientist-assassination-346022">Fakhrizadeh</a>, the US navy said: "there were no specific threats".

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/irans-revolutionary-guard-vows-revenge-over-slain-military-scientist-346088/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The return of Nimitz is centred on maintaining CENTCOM’s ability to remain postured and prepared to help preserve regional stability and security," Rebecca Rebarich, spokesperson for US 5th fleet told AFP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-embassies-on-alert-over-irans-retaliation-threats-after-fakhrizadehs-assassination-report-346090">Also Read:&nbsp;Israeli embassies on alert over Iran's retaliation threats</a>

"There were no specific threats that triggered the return of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group," she added. The comments by the US Navy comes amid tensions with Iran after the killing of Iran nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh which Iranian authorities blamed Isreal, a close ally of America.&nbsp;

The Pentagon had said earlier that the carrier group was stationed to ensure cover for the US troop withdrawal from Iraq and Afghanistan in mid-January which was ordered by President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

US carrier Nimitz had recently taken part in naval exercise with Indian, Japanese and Australian forces in the Arabian Sea as part of the Quad group. The US regularly sends aircraft carrier groups into the Gulf for exercises and to support coalition operations in Iraq and Syria.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-calls-for-punishing-those-behind-scientists-killing-346076">Iran</a> President Hassan Rouhani said his country would respond "at the proper time" claiming it was "the evil hands of global arrogance and the Zionist mercenaries," referring to Israel as the country moved to put its embassies worldwide on high alert.

Fakhrizadeh spearheaded Iran's nuclear effort and was known to be a central figure in a presentation by Israeli PM Netanyahu two year ago as he accused Iran of continuing to seek nuclear weapons.

"Remember that name, Fakhrizadeh," Netanyahu had said during the presentation.

After reports said the United States deployed aircraft carrier Nimitz along with ships to the Gulf on Wednesday shortly before the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the US navy said: "there were no specific threats".

After reports said the United States deployed aircraft carrier Nimitz along with ships to the Gulf on Wednesday shortly before the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the US navy said: "there were no specific threats". Watch: "The return of Nimitz is centred on maintaining CENTCOM’s ability to remain postured and prepared to help preserve regional stability and security," Rebecca Rebarich, spokesperson for US 5th fleet told AFP. Also Read: Israeli embassies on alert over Iran's retaliation threats "There were no specific threats that triggered the return of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group," she added. The comments by the US Navy comes amid tensions with Iran after the killing of Iran nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh which Iranian authorities blamed Isreal, a close ally of America. The Pentagon had said earlier that the carrier group was stationed to ensure cover for the US troop withdrawal from Iraq and Afghanistan in mid-January which was ordered by President Donald Trump. US carrier Nimitz had recently taken part in naval exercise with Indian, Japanese and Australian forces in the Arabian Sea as part of the Quad group. The US regularly sends aircraft carrier groups into the Gulf for exercises and to support coalition operations in Iraq and Syria. Iran President Hassan Rouhani said his country would respond "at the proper time" claiming it was "the evil hands of global arrogance and the Zionist mercenaries," referring to Israel as the country moved to put its embassies worldwide on high alert. Fakhrizadeh spearheaded Iran's nuclear effort and was known to be a central figure in a presentation by Israeli PM Netanyahu two year ago as he accused Iran of continuing to seek nuclear weapons. "Remember that name, Fakhrizadeh," Netanyahu had said during the presentation.

US navy denies aircraft carrier Nimitz moved into Gulf over Iran tensions

The United States is planning to impose sanctions as early as next week on Iranians involved in a violent crackdown against anti-government demonstrations in Tehran a year ago.

The sanctions announcement was reportedly timed to the one-year anniversary of what may have been the bloodiest repression of protesters in Iran since the Islamic Revolution in 1979.

Sources said the sanctions have been in the works for months and are the latest in a long series of US penalties imposed on Iran by President Donald Trump.

According to Reuters, about 1,500 people were killed during less than two weeks of unrest that started on November 15, 2019. The toll included at least 17 teenagers and about 400 women as well as members of the Iranian security forces and police.

Iran's Interior Ministry has said around 225 people were killed during the protests, which erupted after state media announced that gas prices would rise by as much as 200% and the revenue would be used to help needy families.

Trump two years ago abandoned the 2015 Iran nuclear deal struck by his predecessor, Barack Obama, and has since restored harsh US economic sanctions designed to force Tehran into a wider negotiation on curbing its nuclear programme, development of ballistic missiles and support for regional proxy forces.&nbsp;

Several sources played down a media report that the Trump administration planned a flood of sanctions before President-elect Joe Biden takes office on January 20. Biden, who was Obama's vice president, defeated Trump in last week's US election.

Biden has previously said he will return to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal under which Tehran agreed to restrict its nuclear program in return for relief from US and other sanctions, if the Iranian government resumes compliance.

Two weeks ago, the US Treasury slapped counterterrorism sanctions on key players in Iran’s oil sector for supporting the Quds Force, the elite paramilitary arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

(with inputs)

The United States is planning to impose sanctions as early as next week on Iranians involved in a violent crackdown against anti-government demonstrations in Tehran a year ago.

The United States is planning to impose sanctions as early as next week on Iranians involved in a violent crackdown against anti-government demonstrations in Tehran a year ago. The sanctions announcement was reportedly timed to the one-year anniversary of what may have been the bloodiest repression of protesters in Iran since the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Sources said the sanctions have been in the works for months and are the latest in a long series of US penalties imposed on Iran by President Donald Trump. According to Reuters, about 1,500 people were killed during less than two weeks of unrest that started on November 15, 2019. The toll included at least 17 teenagers and about 400 women as well as members of the Iranian security forces and police. Iran's Interior Ministry has said around 225 people were killed during the protests, which erupted after state media announced that gas prices would rise by as much as 200% and the revenue would be used to help needy families. Trump two years ago abandoned the 2015 Iran nuclear deal struck by his predecessor, Barack Obama, and has since restored harsh US economic sanctions designed to force Tehran into a wider negotiation on curbing its nuclear programme, development of ballistic missiles and support for regional proxy forces. Several sources played down a media report that the Trump administration planned a flood of sanctions before President-elect Joe Biden takes office on January 20. Biden, who was Obama's vice president, defeated Trump in last week's US election. Biden has previously said he will return to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal under which Tehran agreed to restrict its nuclear program in return for relief from US and other sanctions, if the Iranian government resumes compliance. Two weeks ago, the US Treasury slapped counterterrorism sanctions on key players in Iran’s oil sector for supporting the Quds Force, the elite paramilitary arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. (with inputs)

US to impose sanctions on Iranians for violence against protesters

The United States revealed on Thursday it had seized Iranian missiles shipped to Yemen and sold 1.1 million barrels of previously seized Iranian oil that was bound for Venezuela, in the Trump administration’s latest move to increase pressure on Tehran less than a week before Nov. 3 election.

The unsealing of the forfeiture complaints, by the Justice Department, came at the same time that the Treasury Department and State Department jointly slapped sanctions on a combined 11 different entities and individuals for their involvement in the purchase and sale of Iranian petrochemicals.

The latest actions against Iran come after U.S. intelligence officials earlier this month alleged that Iranian hackers sought to threaten some U.S. voters by sending them spoofed emails that were made to appear as though they were from the pro-Trump Proud Boys group.

Michael Sherwin, the acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, said on Thursday that the unsealing of the Justice Department’s complaints was “divorced from politics.”

“These actions started last summer. And these are fluid, organic situations,” he said.

The Justice Department’s forfeiture civil cases involve alleged schemes by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to secretly ship weapons to Yemen and fuel to Venezuela.

Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division John Demers said on Thursday that the U.S. government had sold and delivered 1.1 million barrels of Iranian fuel that had been destined for Venezuela, which it had seized earlier this year.

According to the complaint, the fuel originated with firms tied to the IRGC, and shippers took steps to mask ownership. The two vessels carrying the fuel, the Liberia-flagged Euroforce and Singapore-flagged Maersk Progress, had struggled to discharge and shifted course multiple times over the past several weeks.

The United States revealed on Thursday it had seized Iranian missiles shipped to Yemen and sold 1.1 million barrels of previously seized Iranian oil that was bound for Venezuela, in the Trump administration’s latest move to increase pressure on Tehran less than a week before Nov.

The United States revealed on Thursday it had seized Iranian missiles shipped to Yemen and sold 1.1 million barrels of previously seized Iranian oil that was bound for Venezuela, in the Trump administration’s latest move to increase pressure on Tehran less than a week before Nov. 3 election. The unsealing of the forfeiture complaints, by the Justice Department, came at the same time that the Treasury Department and State Department jointly slapped sanctions on a combined 11 different entities and individuals for their involvement in the purchase and sale of Iranian petrochemicals. The latest actions against Iran come after U.S. intelligence officials earlier this month alleged that Iranian hackers sought to threaten some U.S. voters by sending them spoofed emails that were made to appear as though they were from the pro-Trump Proud Boys group. Michael Sherwin, the acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, said on Thursday that the unsealing of the Justice Department’s complaints was “divorced from politics.” “These actions started last summer. And these are fluid, organic situations,” he said. The Justice Department’s forfeiture civil cases involve alleged schemes by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to secretly ship weapons to Yemen and fuel to Venezuela. Assistant Attorney General for the National Security Division John Demers said on Thursday that the U.S. government had sold and delivered 1.1 million barrels of Iranian fuel that had been destined for Venezuela, which it had seized earlier this year. According to the complaint, the fuel originated with firms tied to the IRGC, and shippers took steps to mask ownership. The two vessels carrying the fuel, the Liberia-flagged Euroforce and Singapore-flagged Maersk Progress, had struggled to discharge and shifted course multiple times over the past several weeks.

US seizes Iranian missiles, slaps Iran-related sanctions on 11 entities

The sanctions freeze all U.S. property and assets of the designated entities while barring U.S. citizens from doing business with them.

U.S. sanctions Iranian entities for election meddling

United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday said that arms sales to Iran would breach UN resolutions and result in sanctions, after Tehran said the longstanding UN embargo on arms trade with the Islamic republic had expired.

"The United States is prepared to use its domestic authorities to sanction any individual or entity that materially contributes to the supply, sale, or transfer of conventional arms to or from Iran," Pompeo said in a statement.

"Every nation that seeks peace and stability in the Middle East and supports the fight against terrorism should refrain from any arms transactions with Iran."

The embargo on the sale of conventional arms to Iran was due to start expiring progressively from October 18 under the terms of the UN resolution that confirmed the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers.

Washington had notably withdrawn from the deal, and has tried to maintain an indefinite freeze on arms sales.

Tehran, which could now purchase weapons from Russia, China and elsewhere, hailed the development as a diplomatic victory over its arch enemy the United States,&nbsp;

"As of today, all restrictions on the transfer of arms, related activities and financial services to and from the Islamic Republic of Iran... are all automatically terminated," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

"As of today, the Islamic Republic may procure any necessary arms and equipment from any source without any legal restrictions, and solely based on its defensive needs," the ministry added in the statement on Twitter.

US President Donald Trump withdrew his country from the nuclear deal in 2018 and has unilaterally begun reimposing sanctions on Iran.

But Washington suffered a setback in August when it failed to win support from the United Nations Security Council to indefinitely extend the arms embargo.

Despite pulling out of the nuclear deal, the Trump administration insists it is still a "participant" and can therefore go ahead with reimposing sanctions.&nbsp;

Washington has said it has decided to unilaterally reinstate virtually all of the UN sanctions on Iran lifted under the accord.&nbsp;

But the US legal argument has been rejected by almost the entire Security Council, with European allies of the United States saying the priority is to salvage a peaceful solution to Iran's nuclear programme.

Iran urged the US to "abandon its destructive approach vis-a-vis Resolution 2231", adding that American attempts to "violate" the resolution had been "categorically rejected several times in the past three months by the Security Council".

Moscow said in September that it was ready to boost military cooperation with Tehran, while Beijing has also spoken of its willingness to sell arms to Iran after October 18.

Washington maintained it will seek to prevent Iran from purchasing Chinese tanks and Russian air defence systems.

(with inputs)

United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday said that arms sales to Iran would breach UN resolutions and result in sanctions, after Tehran said the longstanding UN embargo on arms trade with the Islamic republic had expired.

United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday said that arms sales to Iran would breach UN resolutions and result in sanctions, after Tehran said the longstanding UN embargo on arms trade with the Islamic republic had expired. "The United States is prepared to use its domestic authorities to sanction any individual or entity that materially contributes to the supply, sale, or transfer of conventional arms to or from Iran," Pompeo said in a statement. "Every nation that seeks peace and stability in the Middle East and supports the fight against terrorism should refrain from any arms transactions with Iran." The embargo on the sale of conventional arms to Iran was due to start expiring progressively from October 18 under the terms of the UN resolution that confirmed the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers. Washington had notably withdrawn from the deal, and has tried to maintain an indefinite freeze on arms sales. Tehran, which could now purchase weapons from Russia, China and elsewhere, hailed the development as a diplomatic victory over its arch enemy the United States, "As of today, all restrictions on the transfer of arms, related activities and financial services to and from the Islamic Republic of Iran... are all automatically terminated," the foreign ministry said in a statement. "As of today, the Islamic Republic may procure any necessary arms and equipment from any source without any legal restrictions, and solely based on its defensive needs," the ministry added in the statement on Twitter. US President Donald Trump withdrew his country from the nuclear deal in 2018 and has unilaterally begun reimposing sanctions on Iran. But Washington suffered a setback in August when it failed to win support from the United Nations Security Council to indefinitely extend the arms embargo. Despite pulling out of the nuclear deal, the Trump administration insists it is still a "participant" and can therefore go ahead with reimposing sanctions. Washington has said it has decided to unilaterally reinstate virtually all of the UN sanctions on Iran lifted under the accord. But the US legal argument has been rejected by almost the entire Security Council, with European allies of the United States saying the priority is to salvage a peaceful solution to Iran's nuclear programme. Iran urged the US to "abandon its destructive approach vis-a-vis Resolution 2231", adding that American attempts to "violate" the resolution had been "categorically rejected several times in the past three months by the Security Council". Moscow said in September that it was ready to boost military cooperation with Tehran, while Beijing has also spoken of its willingness to sell arms to Iran after October 18. Washington maintained it will seek to prevent Iran from purchasing Chinese tanks and Russian air defence systems. (with inputs)

US Secy of State Pompeo warns of sanctions for any arms sales to Iran

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