Saturday, November 22, 2008 12:13:49 AM GMT | جمعه ١ آذر ١٣٨٧ |
IranVNC Archives
Today's Top Stories
Thousands protest against US-Iraq security deal
Washington, 20 November (IranVNC)— Thousands of followers of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr gathered in central Baghdad today to protest against a proposed US-Iraq security deal to allow US troops to remain in Iraq through 2011.
Deepening economic fears send S&P 500 to 11-year low
Washington, 21 November (IranVNC)—US stocks plunged again on Thursday, as growing concerns of a recession drove the Standard & Poor’s 500 index to its lowest level since 1997.
US intelligence report sees new global challenges by 2025
Washington, 21 November (IranVNC)—US influence will decline over the next two decades and the world will face an increased likelihood of conflict and turmoil, US intelligence analysts warned yesterday in a report on global trends.
Israel exhibits airpower capable of striking Iran
Washington, 20 November (IranVNC)—Israel’s Air Force yesterday displayed air power it could use to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities, which it suspects are being used to develop nuclear weapons.
Iran nuclear official says cooperation with IAEA to continue
Washington, 20 November (IranVNC)—Mohammad Sa’idi, deputy head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, has said that his country will continue to have “comprehensive and constructive interactions” with the International Atomic Energy Agency [IAEA].
Global markets sink to five-year lows
Washington, 20 November (IranVNC)—More gloomy economic data and forecasts sent major stock markets around the world falling to five and a half year lows, as the worst financial crisis in 80 years is pushing more economies closer to a recession.
Ahmadinejad accuses critics of “insulting” the nation
Washington, 19 November (IranVNC)—President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who is on a second round of provincial tours with his cabinet, in an address today in the province Zanjan, slammed one of the more prominent critics of his economic policies. By using the exact words previously used by Expediency Council Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani, to criticize the economic policies of the government, Ahmadinejad left little doubt about whom he was addressing.
US automakers make case for federal bailout
Washington, 19 November (IranVNC)—US auto executives took their case to lawmakers yesterday, pleading Congress to pass a 25 billion dollar emergency loan to rescue the auto industry from collapse.
Iran shipping firm trying to contact hijacked ship
Washington, 19 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s national shipping line today said that it had not been able to contact a ship that had been hijacked by Somali pirates while carrying 36,000 tons of wheat to Iran.
Obama calls Abbas, stress Mideast peace process
Washington, 19 November (IranVNC)—US President-elect Barak Obama called Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas yesterday, vowing to continue to back the peace process with Israel when he takes office in January, AFP reports.
Iran sees no further obligation to IAEA
Washington, 19 November (IranVNC)—Iran said today that it believes it has no further obligation to the International Atomic Energy Agency [IAEA]. Earlier, a report by the United Nations watchdog today noted that there was a lack of cooperation by Tehran.
IAEA says no “substantial progress” on Iran nuclear probe
Washington, 19 November (IranVNC)—The International Atomic Energy Agency [IAEA] has been unable to make progress toward confirming the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities in Iran, the IAEA Director-General Mohamed ElBaradei wrote in a report presented today.
Iran Basij force to strengthen navy in Persian Gulf
Washington, 19 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s Basij Resistance Force, a voluntary militia under the command of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps [IRGC], plans to cooperate with the IRGC’s Navy to increase the naval capability of the Guards Corps in the Persian against any potential threats, said the commander of the Basij today.
Larijani urges Iraqis to resist US security deal
Washington, 18 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s Majlis [parliament] Speaker Ali Larijani yesterday said that there is “still room” for Iraq’s parliament to resist a security pact with the United States, aimed at defining the presence of US troops in that country through 2011.
UK Foreign Secretary pushes for peace with Syria
Washington, 18 November (IranVNC)—British Foreign Secretary David Miliband has held talks with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad today, saying the talks focused on moving towards a comprehensive peace plan for the Middle East, Reuters reports.
Iran, Turkey sign gas agreement
Washington, 18 November (IranVNC)—Iran and Turkey yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding [MOU], according to which 50 percent of the gas from three phases of Iran’s South Pars gas fields will be exported to Europe.
Majlis approves interior minister nominee
Washington, 18 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s Majlis [parliament] today approved President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s nomination for interior minister, Sadeq Mahsouli.
Japan may face long recession – economy minister
Washington, 18 November (IranVNC)—Japan’s economy minister said today that his country’s recession could last even longer than feared, suggesting that the impact from the global financial crisis was far from over.
Iran holds conference on “Creating discourse in world media”
Washington, 17 November (IranVNC)—A conference on “Creating discourse in world media” was held on Saturday 25 Aban [15 November] in Islamic Azad University of Tehran’s department of science and research with the participation of Iran’s professors of communication sciences.
Israel sends limited aid to Hamas-run Gaza
Washington, 17 November (IranVNC)—Israel allowed humanitarian aid the cross into the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip today, opening its border crossing for the first time in two weeks, Reuters reports.
Al-Sadr followers threaten to block US-Iraq security deal
Washington, 17 November (IranVNC)— Followers of the influential Shiite cleric, Moqtada al-Sadr, plan to try to block the passage in parliament of an Iraq-US security agreement governing the presence of American troops in Iraq until their withdrawal by the end of 2011, a spokesperson said today.
Japan in recession as financial crisis grows
Washington, 17 November (IranVNC)—Japan today became the latest major economy to fall into a recession, as economic growth in the third quarter contracted by 0.1 percent.
Iran economy feeling impact of sanctions – Miliband
Washington, 17 November (IranVNC)—UK Foreign Secretary David Miliband yesterday said that sanctions and the international financial crisis were taking a toll on Iran’s economy, the Jerusalem Post reported today.
Iraqi cabinet approves security pact with US
Washington, 16 November (IranVNC)—Iraq’s cabinet today approved a security agreement with the United States which would govern the presence of US troops in that country until their withdrawal by the end of 2011.
Iran lawmakers call for vice-president’s resignation
Washington, 16 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s Vice President for Cultural Heritage and Tourism, Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei, has again come under fire by Majlis [parliament] deputies, following a ceremony last week which was deemed insulting to the Koran, Islam’s holy book.
Iran, Turkey hold talks on gas cooperation
Washington, 16 November (IranVNC)—Energy officials from Turkey and Iran held talks yesterday in Tehran on expanding the two countries’ gas ties, the news website for Iran’s Oil Ministry, Shana, reports.
Montazeri warns of taking away authority of elected offices
Washington, 16 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s Grand Ayatollah Hosseinali Montazeri, a Shiite Source of Emulation [Marja’-e Taqlid], in a meeting with the members of the central committee of Iran’s student alumni association [Advar-e Tahkim-e Vahdat], in the holy city of Qom yesterday, warned against taking away the authority of elected offices in the Islamic Republic, and the complete control of the supreme leader over these institutions.
World leaders agree to continue tackling financial crisis
Washington, 15 November (IranVNC)—World leadrers who had gathered in Washington for a summit amid the worst economic crisis in 80 years agreed today to work together to reform the global financial system and restore economic growth.
Bush hosts dinner for leaders before financial summit
Washington, 14 November (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush tonight hosted a dinner at the White House for world leaders who have gathered in Washington for a financial summit amid the worst economic crisis in 80 years.
Iran says “change” was imposed on US by Islamic Revolution
Washington, 14 November (IranVNC)—During his Friday Prayer sermons in Tehran today, Hojjatoleslam Ahmad Khatami said that the “change” that the American electorate asked for in the US election, was really something that was imposed on them by a changing world situation that Iran’s Islamic Revolution had brought about.
France’s urges Russia and US to shelve missile plans
Washington, 14 November (IranVNC)—French President Nicholas Sarkozy today urged the United States and Russia to back away from plans to deploy missiles in Eastern Europe, saying it would do nothing to increase European security.
Euro zone in recession; leaders meet for financial summit
Washington, 14 November (IranVNC)—As world leaders gathered in Washington for this weekend’s summit on the global economy, the euro zone economy fell into its first recession, another sign that global economies are slowing.
Iran calls for major changes in US policies – Newspaper
Washington, 14 November (IranVNC)—The media adviser to Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said yesterday that the incoming administration of President-elect Barack Obama should make fundamental changes in its policies towards Iran, “not just in words and not just on paper”, but in action.
Six powers committed to two-track approach on Iran
Washington, 14 November (IranVNC)—Representatives from six major powers yesterday reaffirmed their commitment to a dual-track approach of incentives and sanctions to persuade Iran to give up its uranium enrichment activities, France’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The exercise of 30,000 policemen in Tehran
Washington, 14 November (IranVNC)—Tehran’s Law Enforcement Force [LEF] started a six-day exercise called “Security and Tranquility Exercise” on Monday 20 Aban [10 November], with 30,000 policemen taking part.
Bush calls for religious freedom at UN interfaith meeting
Washington, 13 November (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush today made a plea for religious freedom in the world in an address at a United Nations interfaith conference initiated by Saudi Arabia.
Falling oil prices threaten Iran’s oil sector investment
Washington, 13 November (IranVNC)—As oil prices have fallen nearly 60 percent from record highs last June, Iran now faces difficulties in expanding its petroleum industry, Iranian government officials say.
Germany falls into a recession as financial crisis worsens
Washington, 13 November (IranVNC)—Germany has fallen into a recession, after official figures showed that the country’s economy shrank by 0.5 percent in the third quarter, the second consecutive quarter of contraction for the world’s third-largest economy.
Washington slams Moscow over missile threats
Washington, 13 November (IranVNC)—US Defense Secretary Robert Gates today denounced a Russian threat to deploy short-range missiles along the Baltic Sea near Poland and Lithuania to “neutralize” a planned US missile defense shield in Eastern Europe.
Energy agency warns of greater investment needs in oil
Washington, 12 November (IranVNC)—Global energy demand will expand by 45 percent between 2006 and 2030, and oil prices could soon be back to over $100 per barrel, the International Energy Agency [IEA] said in its World Energy Outlook for 2008.
Britain’s unemployment at 11-year high
Washington, 12 November (IranVNC)—Britain’s unemployment rate rose to an 11-year high of 5.8 percent for the three months to September, the highest level since 1997, official data released today showed.
Turkey’s Erdogan offers mediation between Obama, Iran
Washington, 12 November (IranVNC)—Turkey’s Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has said his country is prepared to mediate between the administration of US President-elect Barack Obama and Iran, the New York Times newspaper reports.
Iraq cabinet to vote on security deal at weekend
Washington, 12 November (IranVNC)—Iraq’s finance minister, Baqer Jabr Solagh, said today that Iraq’s cabinet will vote this weekend on a security pact to determine the presence of US troops in the country.
Iran ranked 116th in gender gap survey
Washington, 12 November (IranVNC)—The World Economic Forum released its latest global gender gap report today, and Nordic countries again topped the list as countries with the least levels of gender inequality in public life, while Iran was ranked 116 out of 130.
Iran test-fires new ground-to-ground missiles
Washington, 12 November (IranVNC)—Iran today successfully tested a new ground-to-ground missile with a range of close to 2,000 km, in a move quickly condemned by Washington.
Bush, Obama, mark Veterans Day
Washington, 11 November (IranVNC)— US President George W. Bush and President-elect Barack Obama today marked Veterans Day, a national holiday designated to honor the members of America’s armed forces.
Four detained Azari journalists in Iran released on bail
Washington, 11 November (IranVNC)—Four Azari journalists in Iran were temporarily released on 8 November from Tehran’s Evin Prison, after posting a bail of 50 million tomans [about 50,000 dollars], the Paris-based press watchdog, Reporters Without Borders [RSF], reported yesterday.
Six powers to discuss Iran in Paris on Thursday
Washington, 11 November (IranVNC)—Diplomats from six major powers will meet in Paris on 13 November in Paris to discuss the next steps toward persuading Iran to abandon its sensitive nuclear work, a European diplomatic source told Reuters today.
Obama seeks regional approach to Afghanistan issue - Newspaper
Washington, 11 November (IranVNC)—US President-elect Barack Obama intends to pursue a more “regional strategy” to the war in Afghanistan, including possible talks with neighboring Iran, the Washington Post reported today, citing national security advisors to the incoming president.
Global stocks slide on more weak economic reports
Washington, 11 November (IranVNC)—Stocks around the world fell today, as further weak economic data fueled investors’ fears that global economies are moving into a deep, prolonged recession.
Iran not expecting major policy shift under Obama
Washington, 10 November (IranVNC)—Iran is not expecting any major difference in Washington’s policies toward Tehran when US President-elect Barack Obama takes office in January, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hassan Qashqavi said today.
Rights group says human rights violations in Iran increasing
Washington, 10 November (IranVNC)—The Center for the Defense of Human Rights [CDHR], the rights group headed by Iranian Nobel peace laureate Shirin Ebadi, today published a statement criticizing the Iranian government for its human rights violations during the three-month period ending 22 September.
Obama, Bush hold talks in White House
Washington, 10 November (IranVNC)—US President-elect Barack Obama today visited the White House for his first face-to-face meeting with US President George W. Bush since winning last week’s election.
Mideast Quartet calls for continued peace negotiations
Washington, 9 November (IranVNC)—Representatives of the Middle East Quartet – the United States, the United Nations, the European Union and Russia – today called for continued peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian National Authority [PNA], after the White House conceded earlier this week that US-sponsored peace efforts were unlikely to result in a final settlement before the end of the year.
Iran's economists slam Ahmadinejad in open letter
Washington, 9 November (IranVNC)--Sixty of Iran's economists yesterday published an open letter denouncing what they called the negative consequences of the economic policies of the government.
EU, US seek to ease Arab worries over Iran nuclear file
Washington, 9 November (IranVNC)--European and American officials today in Egypt met Arab diplomats to ease concerns over negotiations between six major powers on Iran's nuclear program.
Larijani: Obama must show "right signs" to change circumstances
Washington, 9 November (IranVNC)—Ali Larijani, the Speaker of Iran's Majlis, yesterday reacted to recent remarks by US President-elect Barak Obama, saying that the new president should "show the right signs to the people of the region in order to change the current conditions."
Obama tackles Iran in first post-election speech
Washington, 7 November (IranVNC)—US President-elect Barack Obama today said that an “international effort” was necessary to prevent Iran from building a nuclear weapon.
Rice says Mideast peace efforts not a failure
Washington, 7 November (IranVNC)—US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice today acknowledged that Israelis and Palestinians were unlikely to reach a peace accord before the end of the year, but said that a US-backed peace process should lay the ground work for an eventual agreement.
Jannati: No change in US-Iran ties with Obama
Washington, 7 November (IranVNC)—Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who led the Friday prayers in Tehran today, said in his second sermon, that despite all the election campaign promises of change, he does not expect the new US president-elect, Barack Obama, to essentially change the relationship between Iran and the U.S. and that the U.S. is “fundamentally” opposed to Islam.
EU presidency voices concern over Russia missile plans
Washington, 7 November (IranVNC)—The European Union today voiced “strong concern” over a Russian warning earlier this week that it would deploy short-range missiles near Poland and Lithuania, ahead of an EU-Russia summit due to take place in France next week.
US job losses soar, unemployment rate at 14-year high
Washington, 7 November (IranVNC)—The US Department of Labor reported today that nonfarm payrolls fell by a larger-than-expected 240,000 in October, the tenth consecutive decline, suggesting that the world’s largest economy is heading towards a recession.
Israel’s Barak urges others to keep all options open
Washington, 7 November (IranVNC)—Israel’s Defense Minister Ehud Barak today urged other countries not to rule out the use of military force against Iran over its disputed nuclear program.
US further limits Iran’s access to US financial system
Washington, 6 November (IranVNC)—The US Treasury today took new steps to further limit Iran’s access to America’s financial system, banning so-called “U-turn” transfers to Iran.
Rafsanjani warns against clergy’s “isolation from society”
Washington, 6 November (IranVNC)—Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, chairman of Iran’s Expediency Council and Assembly of Experts, yesterday referred to the role of the clergy in Iran’s 1979 revolution and generally, to the clergy’s important role as “anchor” in society, and cautioned against the dangers of the clergy’s isolation from society.
Ahmadinejad urges Obama to act on promises of “change”
Washington, 6 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad today congratulated US president-elect, Barack Obama, and outlined the changes he expected to take place under his lead.
More central banks cut interest rates to boost economies
Washington, 6 November (IranVNC)—The Bank of England today cut interest rates by 1.5 percent to 3% in an unexpected move, taking official borrowing costs to their lowest level in more than 50 years.
Iran’s leader rails against critics of President Ahmadinejad
Washington, 5 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, today voiced his “displeasure” at media outlets that have been critical of President Ahmadinejad and his government and accused them of “darkening” the climate of society.
Stocks fall amid continuing global financial crisis
Washington, 5 November (IranVNC)—Stocks around the world slid today as investors turned their attention from the US presidential election to the global financial crisis, the worst since the Great Depression.
Russian missile plans prompt US, NATO criticisms
Washington, 5 November (IranVNC)—Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev today said that he would deploy new, short-range missiles along the Baltic Sea near Poland and Lithuania.
Iran’s economic policy exacerbating banks’ credit crunch
Washington, 5 November (IranVNC)—According to a report today in the Financial Times, Iran’s banks are struggling with credit shortages that have brought them close to insolvency, despite their relative international isolation.
Iran FM: Obama win shows Americans want change
Washington, 5 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s foreign minister, Manouchehr Mottaki, today said that Obama’s election yesterday was a “clear sign” that Americans wanted changes in government policies.
World leaders react to historic Obama election
Washington, 5 November (IranVNC)—Democrat Barack Obama’s landslide victory yesterday to become the 44th US president has prompted messages of praise and expectations of change from leaders in the Middle East and Europe.
Iran warns US military to avoid its airspace
Washington, 5 November (IranVNC)—The Iranian military today warned US military forces in Iraq to steer clear of its borders with Iraq, saying that it would respond to any violation of its air space, the semi-official Fars News Agency reports.
Americans elect Barack Obama as president
Washington, 4 November (IranVNC)—Democrat Barack Obama tonight defeated Republican John McCain in the race to become the America’s 44th president.
Candidates awaiting election results, visit key states
Washington, 4 November (IranVNC)—As US Republican presidential candidate John McCain and his Democratic rival, Barack Obama, await the results of today’s election, both men are making a final push for votes in key states.
Iran’s press covers the US presidential election
Washington, 4 November (IranVNC)—As voting began today in the U.S., the presidential elections figured prominently on the front pages of many of Iran’s main newspapers this morning.
Stocks rise as US voters head to polls
Washington, 4 November (IranVNC)—US stocks were trading much higher today, as voters headed to the polls to elect a new president.
Voting begins in US presidential elections
Washington, 4 November (IranVNC)—Americans have begun voting to decide whether Democratic nominee, Barack Obama, or his Republican rival, John McCain, will become the 44th US president.
Iran’s Majlis sacks interior minister over forgery
Washington, 4 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s Majlis [parliament] today voted to sack Interior Minister Ali Kordan, for lying about holding an honorary degree from Britain’s Oxford University.
Senior official: Iran’s economic situation “dangerous”
Washington, 3 November (IranVNC)—Hojjatoleslam Majid Ansari, a reformist member of Iran’s Expediency Council, today criticized government officials for ignoring warnings by experts and economists about Iran’s economic situation, which he described as “dangerous”.
Candidates make final push for votes in battleground states
Washington, 3 November (IranVNC)—The US presidential candidates are set for a long day of campaigning as they make their final push for votes before tomorrow’s election, which will decide who will be the country’s 44th president.
US, European economies show more signs of slowing
Washington, 3 November (IranVNC)—More signs of a deep and lasting global economic slowdown emerged today, as economic reports showed that production and spending declined sharply in the last month.
Iran marks anniversary of US embassy take-over
Washington, 3 November (IranVNC)—Thousands of Iranians today rallied in Tehran to mark the 29th anniversary of the take-over of the US embassy by Islamic revolutionary students in 1979, IranVNC’s Tehran correspondent reports.
Iran needs minimum $60 oil price – bank official
Washington, 3 November (IranVNC)—Ramin Pasha’ifam, the deputy head in charge of economic affairs at Iran’s Central Bank, said today that Iran’s economy requires that oil prices stay above 60 dollars per barrel in the next five months for that country to avoid economic problems.
Iranian president says minister’s impeachment “illegal”
Washington, 2 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad today voiced his support for troubled Interior Minister Ali Kordan, who will face an impeachment vote by the Majlis [parliament] on Tuesday, by saying that the move was “illegal”.
Ahmadinejad calls for expansion of Iran-India ties
Washington, 2 November (IranVNC)—Tehran and New Delhi should move to expand bilateral ties, Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad told visiting Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee, yesterday in Tehran.
Iranian cabinet representative banned from Majlis
Washington, 2 November (IranVNC)—An Iranian cabinet representative to the Majlis [parliament], Mohammad Abbasi, was today banned from the assembly for trying to bribe deputies into voting against the impeachment of Interior Minister Ali Kordan.
Iran asks Brazil for help to create “new” global system
Washington, 2 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad yesterday called on Brasilia to assist Tehran in establishing a “new” global system, the official IRNA news agency reported.
Indian FM in Tehran for gas pipeline project talks
Washington, 1 November (IranVNC)—Iran’s Oil Minister Gholamhossein Nozari today urged India to play a more active role in the development of the “Peace Pipeline”, a pipeline that would transport gas from Iran to Pakistan and India.
Libyan FM: Tripoli, Moscow agreed on nuclear cooperation
Washington, 1 November (IranVNC)—Libya and Russia today signed a civil nuclear cooperation deal under which Moscow would build nuclear research reactors and supply fuel for the North African state, Libya’s foreign minister was quoted by AFP as saying.
Five days ahead of election, Obama holds lead in polls
Washington, 31 October (IranVNC)—With five days remaining before US election day, Democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama, has maintained his lead over his Republican rival, John McCain, in country-wide polls.
UN: Iran must urge disarmament of Lebanon’s Hezbollah
Washington, 31 October (IranVNC)—United Nations Secretary-General Ban-ki Moon has called on Iran and Syria to help change Lebanon’s Hezbollah into a “political party proper”, a senior UN envoy said yesterday.
China backs Iran joining regional security group – agency
Washington, 30 October (IranVNC)—Speaking on the sidelines of the 7th prime ministers’ meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization [SCO], China’s Prime Minister Wen Jiabao said that Beijing backed Iran’s admission as a member of the regional alliance.
Global stocks fall as Japan cuts its interest rates
Washington, 31 October (IranVNC)—The Bank of Japan cut its interest rates today for the first time in seven years, but the less-than-expected cut ended a three-day rally for most Asian markets.
Iran Majlis deputy warns against economic reform plan
Washington, 30 October (IranVNC)—The head of the Majlis [parliament] Economic Commission, Hojjatoleslam Gholamreza Mesbahi-Moqadem, warned today against implementing part of an economic reform plan proposed by the government of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, saying it could drive up the price of some goods “200 or 300 percent”.
US negotiators reviewing amendments to Iraq security pact
Washington, 30 October (IranVNC)—Following talks with the Prime Minister of Iraq’s Kurdistan region, Massoud Barazani, in the White House yesterday, President George W. Bush said he was “hopeful and confident” that Washington and Baghdad would reach agreement on a security pact.
VP nominees take on energy dependence, Israel, in key states
Washington, 30 October (IranVNC)—US Republican vice presidential candidate, Sarah Palin, and her Democratic counterpart, Joe Biden, yesterday tackled key foreign policy issues while campaigning in the final days in the race for the White House.
US university presidents to visit Iranian universities
Washington, 30 October (IranVNC)—Six presidents from universities across the U.S. will visit Iranian universities next month, on the invitation of the president of Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, one of the country’s premier science and technology universities, a statement by the University of Maryland said today.
Data shows sharpest decline in US economy in seven years
Washington, 30 October (IranVNC)—The United States’ gross domestic product [GDP] decreased at an annual rate of 0.3 percent in the third quarter, the sharpest decline in seven years, the government’s Bureau of Economic Analysis said today.
Majlis deputy slaps government delegate in impeachment row
Washington, 30 October (IranVNC)—Mohammad Abbasi, a government representative in Iran’s Majlis [parliament] was slapped in the face yesterday in a Majlis hallway by Tehran deputy, Ali Asghar Zare’i, in a row over the upcoming impeachment proceedings of Interior Minister Ali Kordan.
Khamenei: US should apologize for past “plots” against Iran
Washington, 29 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei today lambasted the United States, saying that the Iranian nation’s hatred for the U.S. ran deep and that the differences between the two countries were greater than “a few political issues”.
France calls report on Obama Iran policy “groundless”
Washington, 29 October (IranVNC)—France’s Embassy in Israel has dismissed as “groundless” reports in Israeli media that President Nicolas Sarkozy had criticized US Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s stance toward Iran.
US says may close embassy in Damascus ahead of protests
Washington, 28 October (IranVNC)—The US embassy in Syria has warned that it could close its doors to the public ahead of demonstrations planned for today to protest against an alleged US helicopter raid into eastern Syria earlier this week.
Federal Reserve expected to cut interest rate
Washington, 29 October (IranVNC)—The US Federal Reserve is expected to cut its key interest rate by half a point to one percent today, an action that Japanese and European banks are expected to follow to strengthen global economies facing recession.
Khatami says not interested in running for president
Washington, 29 October (IranVNC)—Former President Mohammad Khatami has brought an end to speculations concerning his candidacy in next year’s presidential election, scheduled for 12 June 2009, by declaring “his lack of interest in standing as candidate”.
Two “neo-Nazis” detained over plans to kill Obama
Washington, 28 October (IranVNC)—Two men, described by officials as neo-Nazis, yesterday appeared in a Tennessee court on charges of plotting to kill US Democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama.
Pro-Ahmadinejad election campaigners begin work early
Washington, 28 October (IranVNC)—While pro-reformist groups have not made a definite choice between Hojjatoleslam Mehdi Karroubi, head of Iran’s National Trust [E’temaad-e Melli] Party, and former President Mohammad Khatami, as their leading candidate in the upcoming presidential elections, the election committees of Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad began its official work yesterday in the northwestern city of Tabriz.
Syria raid kills key “target”
Washington, 28 October (IranVNC)—Western media has quoted an unnamed US official as confirming that a raid by US forces on the Syrian side of the Iraqi border on Sunday, killed a “major” smuggler of foreign fighters into Iraq.
Gala held on 43rd anniversary of Iran’s oldest theater
Washington, 28 October (IranVNC)—A group of Iran’s most prominent artists and cultural icons last night celebrated the 43rd anniversary of the opening of Sangalaj Playhouse, Iran’s oldest modern-era theater.
Russia calls US sanctions on arms exporter “short-sighted”
Washington, 28 October (IranVNC)—Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev today dismissed as “short-sighted” a US decision to impose sanctions on Russian arms exporter, Rosoboronexport.
Global stocks rise on record BP profits
Washington, 28 October (IranVNC)—Global stocks were up today following a late surge in Asia’s markets and on news that profits at Europe’s second-largest oil company, British Petroleum, rose 83 percent in the third quarter to 8.05 billion dollars.
McCain, Obama trade blows on economy
Washington, 27 October (IranVNC)—With eight days left in the race for the White House, US Republican candidate, John McCain, and his Democratic rival, Barack Obama, today sparred over the economy in the battleground state of Ohio.
IAEA: No “full clarity” on Iran’s undeclared nuclear work
Washington, 27 October (IranVNC)—Director-General of the United Nations nuclear watchdog, Mohamed ElBaradei, today said that the agency could not yet determine whether or not Iran had carried out undeclared nuclear activities.
Livni fails to form coalition, Israel headed for elections
Washington, 27 October (IranVNC)—Israel’s ruling party leader Tzipi Livni told Israel’s President Shimon Peres yesterday that she had failed to form a majority coalition in order to form a government, thus necessitating general elections to be held in February.
Syria denounces raid as “war crime”
Washington, 27 October (IranVNC)—Nine construction workers were killed yesterday and 19 more were wounded in an explosion on the Syrian side of the Iraqi border, an area allegedly used by insurgents for launching attacks into Iraq, Reuters reports.
Oil prices still falling due to weaker demand
Washington, 27 October (IranVNC)—Oil prices continued to dive today, as the commodity fell to a 17-month low below 62 dollars per barrel despite large output cuts announced last week by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries [OPEC].
Iranian poet, Saffarzadeh, dies at 72
Washington, 26 October (IranVNC)—Iranian poet and translator Tahereh Saffarzadeh died yesterday in Tehran. She was 72 years old.
UAE banks up pressure on Iranian merchants, firms
Washington, 27 October (IranVNC)—Local and international banks in the United Arab Emirates [UAE] are ratcheting up pressure on Iran by refusing to open accounts for merchants doing business with the Islamic Republic and freezing their accounts, Iran’s Sarmayeh Newspaper reports.
Financial crisis hits oil, non-oil exports - Iran official
Washington, 26 October (IranVNC)--The head of the Export Guarantee Fund of Iran, Kamal Seyyed Ali, today said that Iran's oil and non-oil exports are suffering from the global financial crisis, despite the country's relative isolation.
Iraq minister calls rejecting security deal a "mistake"
Washington, 26 October (IranVNC)—Iraq's Interior Minister Jawad al-Bolani said today that it would be a mistake for the country's lawmakers to reject a security agreement between the US and Iraq that would determine the presence of American troops there.
Dow Jones opens down 400 points as global markets sink
Washington, 24 October (IranVNC)—The Dow Jones Industrial Average opened more than 400 points lower today, following sharp declines in European and Asian markets and lower earnings reports from automakers and technology companies.
Oil prices down as OPEC agrees to large output cut
Washington, 24 October (IranVNC)—The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries [OPEC] today agreed to cut its production by 1.5 million barrels per day in an attempt to curtail the spiraling oil prices.
US imposes sanctions on foreign firms for Iran weapons aid
Washington, 24 September (IranVNC)—The United States has imposed sanctions on companies in China, Iran, North Korea, South Korea Russia, Sudan, Syria the United Arab Emirates and Venezuela, for alleged sales of weapons or sensitive technology to Iran, North Korea and Syria.
McCain slams Obama credentials as early voters cast ballots
Washington, 24 October (IranVNC)—US Republican presidential candidate, John McCain, today attacked the economic and foreign policy plans of his Democratic opponent, Barack Obama.
Conductor of Iran’s National Orchestra awarded Austrian arts prize
Washington, 24 October (IranVNC)—The conductor of Iran’s National Orchestra, Loris Tjeknavorian, last night received Austria’s Cross of Honor for Science and Art from that country’s ambassador to Tehran, during a ceremony held at the Austrian Embassy in Tehran to celebrate Austria national day.
Russia warns US over talks on Iran nuclear program
Washington, 24 October (IranVNC)—The sanctions that the U.S. imposed yesterday on Russian arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, will have a “negative impact” on Moscow’s talks with six major powers on Iran’s nuclear program, Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned today.
Karrubi: Tehran ready for good ties with US
Washington, 24 October (IranVNC)—Hojjatoleslam Mehdi Karrubi, secretary of Iran’s National Trust Party [E’temaad Melli], who on Wednesday [22 October] was re-elected to another two-year term in his post, said yesterday that Iran “is ready to establish amiable relations” with the United States on condition that Washington “ceases its hegemonic drive.”
Rafsanjani warns against “delight” at West’s economic crisis
Washington, 24 October (IranVNC)—Addressing worshipers at the Friday prayer ceremony in Tehran, Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani called the current world economic crisis, an economic “tsunami”, that should not be considered good news for Iran.
Bolton: Negotiations with Iran
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—Former US ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton said yesterday that negotiations with Iran over its alleged nuclear weapons program is an
Iran’s Supreme Court confirms death sentence of minor
Washington, 23 October (IranVNC)—Rooz Online news website reports today that Iran’s Supreme Court has confirmed the death sentence passed against a minor.
McCain, Palin slam Obama on tax policy in Ohio
Washington, 23 October (IranVNC)—US Republican presidential candidate, Senator John McCain, and his running mate, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, today criticized the tax policies of Democratic candidate Barack Obama in the key state of Ohio.
Ahmadinejad lashes out at US-Iraq security pact
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said today during a visit by the prime minister of Iraq’s Kurdistan region, Massoud Barazani, that the security agreement between the U.S. and Iraq was aimed at keeping that country weak.
Iran health official: Sexual transmission of AIDS rising
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—Iran is witnessing a rise in the spread of the AIDS virus through sexual transmission, said Dr. Hassan Safariyeh, the head of the general office for health and treatment of the Rehabilitation Organization of the Red Crescent of Iran.
EU opposes OPEC-style gas cartel
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—The European Commission expressed strong opposition today to the idea of an OPEC-style cartel of gas producers after the world’s three largest gas powers, Russia, Iran and Qatar, agreed to form a “big gas troika”, Reuters reports.
Iran wins Asian Youth Volleyball Championship
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—Iran's national youth volleyball team today defended its title at the 7th Asian Youth Volleyball Championship in Sri Lanka's capital of Colombo, the semi-official Mehr News Agency reported.
Larijani: Iran open to security pact with Persian Gulf states
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—Speaking at a press conference in Bahrain's capital Manama, Iran's Majlis [parliament] Speaker Ali Larijani said today that his country was ready to sign security pacts with all Persian Gulf littoral states, the official IRNA news agency reported.
Stocks, oil continue to fall amid global economic slowdown
Washington, 23 October (IranVNC)—Global stocks and commodities continued to fall yesterday, as global recession fears sent oil prices to its lowest level since June 2007 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average touched a five-year low.
University teachers criticize new admissions procedures
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—One week after the publication of a letter by 109 university professors criticizing the condition of Iran's universities, today 170 professors of the Tehran's Sharif University of Technology, in a letter addressed to Iran's Supreme Cultural Revolution Council [SCRC], criticized the new student admissions procedures at the country's universities.
Saudi Arabia urges “positive” Iran response to P5+1 offer
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)— Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal yesterday called on Tehran to respond “positively” to efforts by six major powers to persuade it to suspend its uranium enrichment activities.
Iran to refuse request for AIC office in Tehran
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s Interior Minister Ali Kordan today announced that he would not issue a permit to the American Iranian Council [AIC] to open an office in Tehran.
Ministry warns journalists over BBC Persian cooperation
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—The Culture and Islamic Guidance Ministry today issued a statement warning Iranian journalists to avoid cooperating with the soon-to-be established television network of the London-based BBC Persian service, the official IRNA news agency reported.
Permits granted for two female-only universities in Iran
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—Iran's ministry of science announced today that permits have been issued for the establishment of two female-only universities in Yazd and Qom provinces. The faculty and administrative personnel, too, will be made up of women exclusively.
Journalism “high risk exercise” in Iran – press freedom group
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC 2008)—Iran has maintained its position near the bottom of the Reporters Without Borders [RSF] world press freedom index this year, ranking 166 out of 173 for the second year in a row.
Global stocks fall on recession fears
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—Stocks in Asia and Europe fell sharply today over concerns about an economic recession and weak corporate earnings.
Obama, McCain shift focus to national security
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—US Democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama, today said that he would bring a “fundamental change” to the White House to help address foreign policy issues.
Pentagon: Iran wants to undermine US-Iraq security pact
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—The US Department of Defense today accused Iran of trying to “undermine” and “derail” an almost completed US-Iraq security agreement that governs the presence of US troops in that country beyond 2008.
US sanctions Iran export development bank, affiliates
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—The US Treasury Department today placed sanctions on the Export Development Bank of Iran [EDBI] for allegedly helping the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program.
Iran: Students protest at handling of Bani Ya’qoub’s case
Washington, 22 October (IranVNC)—Over 1,000 students of the University of Tehran’s College Faculty of Dentistry and Pharmacology, addressed a letter to the Judiciary chief yesterday, protesting against the handling of the case of Zahra Bani Ya’qoub, a medical doctor who died on 13 October 2007 while in detention in the western city of Hamadan.
Candidates talk economy in battleground states
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—With two weeks remaining in the race for the White House, US presidential candidates, Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain, today swiped at each other’s economic policies as they campaigned in key states.
Rohani slams Ahmadinejad over economic policies
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—Hojjatoleslam Hasan Rohani, the head of the Center for Strategic Studies at Iran’s Expediency Discernment Council and member of the Assembly of Experts, yesterday renewed his criticism of the government of Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for “dipping into the treasury reserves”.
Bush calls for continued aid for poor countries
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—Speaking at the White House Summit on International Development in Washington, US President George W. Bush today called on his successor and other world leaders to maintain their commitments to aid for poor nations.
Rice: US ready to talk to Iran, if it halts nuclear program
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—In an interview with BBC Arabic television yesterday, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the U.S. is “perfectly ready” to open talks with Iran, if that country complies with international demands and halts its nuclear enrichment activities.
UN chief voices concern over human rights in Iran
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon yesterday voiced concern over the status of human rights in Iran, especially for women and minorities, in a report submitted to the UN General Assembly.
Rights group condemns Iran for backtracking on execution ban
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—Amnesty International yesterday condemned Iran for saying that a recently issued directive calling for a ban on executions for juvenile offenders did not apply to all cases.
Saudi to try 991 suspected al-Qaida members
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—Saudi Arabia will try 991 suspected members of the al-Qaida organization for carrying out 30 “terrorist” attacks since 2003, reported Saudi media today.
Russia, Iran, Qatar plan joint gas organization
Washington, 21 October (IranVNC)—Speaking at a joint press conference with Russia and Qatar in Tehran today, Iran’s Oil Minister Gholam Hossein Nozari announced that the three countries, which hold the world’s largest gas reserves, plan to create a common gas exporters’ organization.
Majlis deputies say they toured Capitol, met congressman
Washington, 20 October (IranVNC)—Three Iranian Majlis [parliament] deputies today said that they met a member of the US House of Representatives earlier this month.
More countries announce financial rescue plans
Washington, 20 October (IranVNC)—More governments from around the world today announced rescue packages to shore up their battered national banks, as the worst global financial crisis in 70 years continues to threaten the international financial system.
Former Secretary of State Powell backs Obama for president
Washington, 20 October (IranVNC)— General Colin Powell, former Secretary of State under US President George W. Bush, yesterday endorsed Democratic candidate, Barack Obama, for the presidency.
Iran wraps up aerial drills, warns against attack
Washington, 20 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s Air Force today “successfully” wrapped up its five-day aerial drills near Tabriz in the country’s northwest East Azarbayjan Province, a spokesperson for the military exercises said today.
Documents point to Iran aid, training for Iraqi militants
Washington, 19 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps [IRCG] Qods Force and Lebanon’s Hezbollah operatives have for several years trained Iraqi Shiite militants to launch attacks against US forces in Iraq, newly declassified US intelligence documents have revealed.
China agrees to build Pakistan two nuclear plants
Washington, 19 October (IranVNC)—China has agreed to help build two new nuclear power plants in Pakistan and to increase its investments in that country, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said yesterday.
Iran blames intolerance for losing Security Council bid
Washington, 19 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Mohammad Khazaee, said yesterday that intolerance for an “independent voice” in the 15-member UN Security Council was to blame for Tehran losing its bid for a seat on the board.
Germany seeks unilateral sanctions against Iran – report
Washington, 19 October (IranVNC)—Germany’s government is hoping to convince the country’s banking, insurance and energy companies to break ties with Iran, a report in the weekly newsmagazine, Der Spiegel, said yesterday.
US, EU agree on summit on global financial crisis
Washington, 19 October (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush said yesterday that he would host the first in a series of global summits to address the global financial crisis and revise the international financial system that was established following World War II.
Iran ban on juvenile executions not applicable to retribution
Washington, 19 October (IranVNC)—An Iranian Judiciary official yesterday said that the recent directive issued by the Judiciary banning executions for juvenile offenders does not apply to cases of qisas, or retribution in kind.
OPEC oil ministers call for production cuts
Washington, 19 October (IranVNC)—Oil ministers and representatives from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries [OPEC] yesterday called for cuts in the cartel’s oil production, as oil prices have sharply fallen amid the worst global financial crisis in seventy years.
Presidential candidates exchange jokes at charity dinner
Washington, 17 October (IranVNC)—US Presidential candidates, John McCain and Barack Obama, last night took a break from campaigning to trade jokes at a white-tie charity dinner in New York.
Iran attempts to make world’s longest sandwich
Washington, 17 October (IranVNC)—Organizers in Iran today took aim at the title for the world’s longest sandwich, putting together what they say was a 1,500-meter [4,920-feet] ostrich and chicken sandwich.
Iran hails Lebanon-Syria diplomatic ties
Washington, 17 October (IranVNC)—Iran today praised Syria and Lebanon after the two countries signed a joint statement on 15 October establishing diplomatic ties for the first time since winning independence from France in the 1940s.
Top cleric calls financial crisis, act of God against the US
Washington, 17 October (IranVNC)—Addressing worshipers at today’s Friday prayer ceremony in Tehran, the provisional Friday prayer imam and member of Iran’s Assembly of Experts, Hojjatoleslam Ahmad Khatami, said in his second sermon that the U.S. has made every effort to pass resolutions by the United Nations Security Council against Iran, but that the economic crisis it wanted to create in Iran, happened against itself.
Jailed Iranian syndicate leader wins Silver Rose award
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)—Yusef Mola’i, lawyer of Mansour Osanlu, the jailed leader of the Syndicate of Workers of Tehran and Suburbs Bus Company, yesterday accepted the Silver Rose Award from the Solidar network on behalf of his client.
Bush: Bank rescue plan is not a government takeover
Washington, 17 October (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush today defended his administration’s actions to address the global financial crisis, including a 250 billion dollar plan to buy equity in banks, saying that the program did not amount to a government takeover of financial institutions.
Iran Judiciary orders halt to execution of juvenile offenders
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s Judiciary has circulated a directive ordering the country’s judges to reduce the sentences of those juvenile offenders who have been sentenced to death, Iran’s deputy prosecutor-general, Hossein Zebhi, said yesterday.
Iran loses bid for UN Security Council seat
Washington, 17 October (IranVNC)—Iran today lost its bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council, as Japan easily defeated Iran for the lone Asian seat available.
Financial crisis eclipses hunger on World Food Day
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)—As over 150 countries around the world today marked World Food Day, leading crusaders against hunger said that the global financial crisis has overshadowed a food crisis that threatens millions around the world.
Major pro-reform leaders absent from E'temaad Melli meeting
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)— The first general convention of the pro-reform E’temaad Melli [National Trust] Party was held this morning in the conference room of Iran’s Ministry of the Interior, in the absence of major pro-reform personalities, IranVNC’s Tehran correspondent reports.
US commends Australia for imposing sanctions on Iran
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)—The US Treasury yesterday applauded measures taken by Australia to impose new sanctions against Iran and urged other countries around the world to take similar steps.
Obama, McCain spar over foreign policy in last debate
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)—In the final presidential debate before the 4 November elections, US presidential candidates, Barack Obama and John McCain, yesterday clashed over their foreign policies on energy and international trade.
US-Iraq security pact calls for US troops to leave by 2011
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)—After months of negotiations, the United States and Iraq have agreed on a security pact which would provide a legal basis for US forces in that country beyond the end of this year, US and Iraqi officials said yesterday.
Recession fears send stocks, commodities lower
Washington, 16 October (IranVNC)—Amid the worst global financial crisis in 70 years and growing fears of a global economic recession, stocks and commodities spiraled further downward today.
Rights groups urge UN to end execution of juvenile offenders
Washington, 15 October (IranVNC)—Over 300 non-governmental organizations [NGOs] from 82 countries today called on the United Nations member countries to ban the execution of juvenile offenders, as outlined in international agreements including the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Khamenei calls for “uprising” against injustice
Washington, 15 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei yesterday urged a group of visiting religious leaders and former world leaders to rise up and act against oppression in order to solve the problems in the world today.
Britain, France call for overhaul of financial system
Washington, 15 October (IranVNC)—As leaders from the European Union met in Brussels today for talks on the global financial crisis, France’s President Nicolas Sarkozy called for a complete overhaul of the global financial system.
Oil prices fall further as recession fears persist
Washington, 15 October (IranVNC)—Oil prices fell to a 13-month low today, amid concerns that the global financial crisis would lead to further cuts in demand for crude.
Australia imposes sanctions on Iran entities for nuclear ties
Washington, 15 October (IranVNC)—Australia today imposed new unilateral sanctions against Iran for its defiance of international demands that it suspend its uranium enrichment work, which the U.S. and its allies suspect could be used to build a nuclear weapon.
Iran denies bribing Iraqi lawmakers
Washington, 15 October (IranVNC)—Iran's ambassador to Baghdad yesterday denied an allegation by the top US commander in Iraq that Tehran is working to undermine the security deal between Washington and Baghdad by bribing some lawmakers to vote against the pact.
Iran should make nuclear energy for domestic demand - expert
Washington, 15 September (IranVNC)—Iran should export its natural gas and use civilian nuclear power to meet its future domestic energy demands, Frank Verrastro, energy expert from the Center for Strategic and International Studies [CSIS], said last night.
Presidential candidates prepare for final TV debate
Washington, 15 October (IranVNC)—US Democratic presidential candidate, Barack Obama, is leading his Republican rival, John McCain, in polls today as the two prepare to face off in their third and last debate.
US to pump 250 billion dollars into banks
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush today announced new measures which his administration will take to strengthen the nation’s banks and restore the frozen credit markets, following similar announcements yesterday by London, Paris and Berlin.
Tehran University president condemns British colonialism
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—Speaking at a one-day conference in Tehran entitled “Iran and British Colonialism”, the president of Tehran University, Farhad Rahbar, said today that Muslim countries had suffered the “most damage” under hundreds of years of “Britain’s dark colonialism”.
US world domination has ended, says Iran’s Khamenei
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—Addressing the twentieth nationwide conference of the country’s Friday prayer leaders today, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, said that as reward for the Islamic revolution’s resilience, and with God’s help, the era of America’s absolute sovereignty has come to an end.
McCain outlines economic rescue plan ahead of last debate
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—US Republican presidential candidate, John McCain, today laid out a 52.5 billion dollar economic plan to help those Americans “hurting the most” from the current financial crisis.
Iran, Syria consider opening joint venture bank
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—Iran’s state-owned Bank Saderat and the Commercial Bank of Syria – which are both under US sanctions for their alleged ties to the funding of “terrorist” groups – are considering forming a joint bank, the London-based Financial Times quoted Syrian officials as saying.
Solidarity of 53 unions in 41 countries with Iran’s workers
Washington, 13 October (IranVNC)—On the first day of the “Road Transportation Action Week” [13-19 October], dozens of labor unions from over 40 countries demonstrated their support of the independent worker’s movement in Iran.
US exports to Iran rise by 90 percent
Washington, 13 October (IranVNC)—Despite US and United Nations sanctions against Iran, the country’s imports rose by about 36 percent in the first half of the current year over the similar period last year, according to a report released yesterday by Iran’s Customs Administration.
Ahmadinejad urges exit of foreign forces from Middle East
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—In a meeting with Former Secretary-General of the United Nations Kofi Annan yesterday, Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad called for “foreign forces” to leave the Middle East in order to restore peace and stability in the region.
North Korea allows UN nuclear inspections to resume
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—North Korea has allowed the UN nuclear watchdog to resume inspections and monitoring of its Yongbyon nuclear site, including its plutonium reprocessing plant, the International Atomic Energy Agency [IAEA] announced yesterday.
Syria issues decree to establish diplomatic ties with Lebanon
Washington, 14 October (IranVNC)—Syria’s President Bashar Al-Assad today issued a decree to establish diplomatic relations with neighboring Lebanon, a landmark move for two countries which have not had formal diplomatic ties since gaining independence from France in the 1940s.
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