Clinton calls for Democratic unity in support for Obama

Washington, 27 August (IranVNC)—Former Democratic presidential candidate, Hillary Clinton, last night called on her party to unite in support of their nominee, Barack Obama, during her speech at the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado.

Iranian-American sentenced for car rampage at US campus

Washington, 27 August (IranVNC)—Mohammad Taheri-Azar, a naturalized US citizen from Iran and a former student, was sentenced to up to 33-years in prison today for attempting to run people over with his sport utility vehicle at the University of North Carolina in 2006, AP reports.

McCain ad attacks Obama on Iran position

Washington, 27 August (IranVNC)—Republican presidential hopeful John McCain released a new television advertisement today accusing his Democratic rival, Barack Obama, as being “dangerously unprepared” to be president.

Rice: West Bank settlements impede peace process

Washington, 26 August (IranVNC)—During her trip to the Middle East today, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice demanded that Israel put an end to its settlement construction in the West Bank, saying it undermines they peace negotiations with the Palestinian authorities, reports Haaretz.

UN: US-led airstrike killed 90 Afghan civilians

Washington, 26 August (IranVNC)—The United Nations said today it has found “convincing evidence” that nearly 90 Afghan civilians were killed in an airstrike by the US-led coalition troops in the western Afghanistan last week, AP reports.

North Korea stops its nuclear disarmament

Washington, 26 August (IranVNC)—North Korea announced today that it would stop disabling its nuclear reactor and is considering restarting its plutonium enrichment in response to the US failure to remove the country from its blacklist of terror sponsors, AP reports.

Inspirational speeches open Democratic National Convention

Washington, 26 August (IranVNC)—Michelle Obama and Senator Edward “Ted” Kennedy addressed the country last night as the Democrats gathered in support of their nominee, Barack Obama, at the opening day of the Democratic National Convention in Denver.

CIA moles sabotaged Iran, Libya nuke programs - report

Washington, 25 August (IranVNC)—The Central Intelligence Agency [CIA] recruited a family of Swiss engineers to deliver top secret information that helped end Libya’s nuclear bomb program, shed light on Iran’s nuclear progress, and undo the nuclear black market of Pakistan’s Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, a report in the New York Times said today.

Obama: Increase pressure on Iran before Israel responds

Washington, 25 August (IranVNC)—US Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama said today in Iowa that the world must increase pressure on Iran over its controversial nuclear program before Israel feels cornered.

Iran denies direct purchase of wheat from U.S.

Washington, 24 August (IranVNC)—Iran’s Commerce Minister yesterday denied reports that his country had imported a large quantity of US wheat this summer, saying Iran has other countries it imports wheat from.

Obama picks experienced Biden as running mate

Washington, 24 August (IranVNC)—Illinois Senator Barack Obama selected seasoned politician Senator Joseph Biden [D-DE] as his running mate yesterday, hoping to negate accusations by Republican rival John McCain that Obama is weak and inexperienced.

U.S., Iraq reach preliminary troop pullout agreement

Washington, 22 August (IranVNC)—The United States and Iraq have reached a preliminary agreement on US troop withdrawals from Iraq, the head of Iraq’s negotiation team, Mohammed al-Haj Hammoud, said today.

US Navy to patrol Gulf of Aden

Washington, 22 August (IranVNC)—The US Navy announced today that it will begin patrolling the dangerous waters off the Gulf of Aden, following the hijacking of four vessels off the Somali coast yesterday.

U.S., Iraq “very close” to troop status deal – Rice

Washington, 21 August (IranVNC)—Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice made a surprise visit to Iraq today, where she told reporters that Washington and Baghdad were “very, very close” to reaching an agreement on the future of US troops in Iraq, AFP reports.

U.S., Poland to deploy defense system, despite Russian anger

Washington, 20 August (IranVNC)—The United States and Poland signed a deal today agreeing to deploy part of the missile defense system that the U.S. is setting up on Polish territory, despite Russia’s protests that the system is a threat to its security.

US expects Iraqi militia leaders to return from Iran soon

Washington, 19 August (IranVNC)—The number two US military commander in Iraq, Lt. Gen. Lloyd Austin III, said yesterday that he expects Shiite militia leaders who fled to Iran last spring to return to Iraq soon to stir up instability in the war-torn country.

U.S., Israel, Turkey to practice rescue missions

Washington, 19 August (IranVNC)—Naval ships and aircrafts from the United States, Israel, and Turkey will perform a trilateral humanitarian search and rescue exercise in the international waters of the Mediterranean Sea today in hopes to strengthen international coordination in potential maritime and humanitarian emergencies, Xinhua news agency reports.

US official calls Iran rocket test “dramatic failure”

Washington, 19 August (IranVNC)—Iran’s launch on Sunday of a domestically made rocket capable of carrying a satellite into space was a “dramatic failure”, a US official said today.

Iran: no formal US request for diplomatic office received

Washington, 19 August (IranVNC)—The semi-official Fars News Agency today denied a report by Entekhab news website which cited an unnamed “informed official” today as saying that plans to open an American interests section in Iran had been confirmed.

US, South Korea begin annual military exercises

Washington, 18 August (IranVNC)—The United States and South Korea began annual joint military exercises today, aimed at preparing Seoul to assume war-time command of its own military forces in 2012, AP reports.

White House calls Iran rocket launch “troubling”

Washington, 17 August (IranVNC)—The White House today said Iran’s announcement that it had launched a rocket capable of carrying a satellite into space was “troubling”, and raised concerns about Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.

IMF cautions Iran over economic policies, “overheated” economy

Washington, 15 August (IranVNC)—The International Monetary Fund [IMF] said in a report released yesterday that international sanctions against Iran have “negatively affected” its economy, and cautioned the country over its medium-term economic prospects and an “overheated” economy.

U.S. to seek diplomatic resolution with Iran, says envoy

Washington, 15 August (IranVNC)—The top US envoy to the Muslim world announced today in Malaysia that the U.S. would pursue a diplomatic solution to the current nuclear stand-off with Iran, and urged Iran to take on “a responsible role” among Islamic countries, AFP reports.

Iraqi assassination teams training in Iran – US military

Washington, 15 August (IranVNC)—Iraqi assassination squads are being trained in four Iranian cities by that country’s elite Quds Force and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, a senior U.S. military official said today.

Russian credibility “damaged”, Bush says

Washington, 15 August (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush today reiterated his support for Georgia and warned that Russia “has damaged” its credibility with Western nations as a result of its weeklong military conflict with Georgia.

Russia must withdraw from Georgia, Rice says

Washington, 15 August (IranVNC)—Russian forces must withdraw from Georgian territory, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said after Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvil signed French-brokered peace deal earlier today.

Libya, U.S. sign bombing compensation deal

Washington, 15 August (IranVNC)—The United States and Libya signed a settlement agreement yesterday to compensate the American and Libyan victims of terrorist attacks, or their surviving families, making it possible for the two countries to improve diplomatic relations.

US wins big, makes history on day six of Olympics

Washington, 15 August (IranVNC)—Team USA dominated on day six of the summer Olympics, with American swimmers and gymnasts winning handsomely. The U.S. now has 46 medals total, five more than second place China.

Rice calls on Russia to implement ceasefire

Washington, 14 June (IranVNC)—US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice called on Russia to respect a French-brokered ceasefire agreement aimed at bringing six days of military conflict between Russia and Georgia to an end.

U.S., Poland reach deal on missile defense shield

Washington, 14 August (IranVNC)—The United States and Poland have agreed to a preliminary plan to install part of an American missile defense shield on Polish soil, Warsaw announced today.

U.S. “scrapped” military exercise with Russia over Georgia

Washington, 13 August (IranVNC)—The U.S. has cancelled scheduled joint military exercises with Russia in response to its aggression in the recent armed conflict in Georgia, a close US ally, and is considering its next step in dealing with the Russian invasion.

Bush pledges political support, humanitarian aid to Georgia

Washington, 13 August (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush pledged today “unwavering support” for Georgia in the ongoing armed conflict with Russia, and announced that he will send US humanitarian and diplomatic aid to the Georgian people.

Phelps takes ninth gold in Olympic career

Washington, 12 August (IranVNC)—Michael Phelps has made Olympic history today as he clinches his ninth career Olympic gold medal for the United States in swimming the 200-meter freestyle, marking the third time he has broken a world record.

U.S. sanctions five Iranian entities over nuclear work

Washington, 12 August (IranVNC)—The US Department of Treasury today imposed sanctions on five more Iranian entities, saying they have ties to that country’s disputed nuclear and missile programs.

Bush pushes for human rights in China

Washington, 11 August (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush said yesterday, that he would be trying to focus on “common areas, like North Korea and Iran” in his talks with the Chinese government, but pledged to continue his push for human rights and religious freedom while in Beijing for the Olympic Games.

US think tank warns against attacking Iran’s nuke facilities

Washington, 8 August (IranVNC)—A surgical strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities similar to that which Israel carried out to destroy Iraq’s Osirak reactor in June 1981, or Syria’s reactor in 2007, is “not possible,” according to a report released today by the Institute for Science and International Security [ISIS].

Gates endorses expansion of Afghan army

Washington, 8 August (IranVNC)—US Defense Secretary Robert Gates has endorsed a multi-billion dollar plan to significantly increase the size of Afghanistan’s army over the next five years, the Pentagon announced today.

US businessmen guilty of conspiracy for Iran deal

Washington, 8 August (IranVNC)—A Louisiana court yesterday convicted two American businessmen of conspiracy charges, for violating a US embargo by exporting engineering software to Iran, AP reports.

Rice says U.S. will not accept Iran’s “half-answers”

Washington, 7 August (IranVNC)—Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said today that Iran has “a way out” of its longstanding nuclear dispute, but warned that major powers would not accept “half-answers” on international demands to halt its sensitive uranium enrichment work.

Bush confronts China on human rights

Washington, 7 August (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush laid down some of his harshest criticism against China regarding its human rights record, pressing for “openness and justice” in a speech in Thailand ahead of his planned attendance of the Beijing Olympic Games.

U.S. warns of “punitive” actions against Iran in nuclear row

Washington, 6 August (IranVNC)—The U.S. and its allies will have to take more “punitive” measures against Iran after it failed to provide a positive response to a freeze-for-freeze offer by major powers, the White House said today.

Bush says N. Korea still in “axis of evil,” takes on human rights

Washington, 6 August (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush was in South Korea today where he stated that North Korea remains as part of the “axis of evil” despite recent efforts by Pyongyang to reverse its antagonistic status.

Iran sending “lethal aid” to Iraq – US envoy

Washington, 6 July (IranVNC)—A senior US diplomat today accused Iran of undermining security gains in Iraq by sending “lethal aid” to militias there and by offering “sanctuary” to Mahdi Army militiamen who fled the country.

Bush praises China’s Iran policy

Washington, 5 August (IranVNC)—En route to the Beijing Olympics, President George W. Bush praised China for its support of international efforts to stop nuclear proliferation, especially in dealing with North Korea and Iran, but was not as positive about China’s record on religious tolerance.

US: Closing Strait of Hormoz would hurt Iran

Washington, 5 August (IranVNC)—The Pentagon said today that Iran would only be hurting itself if it closed the Strait of Hormoz to export oil as the price for crude continues to fall.

Bush heads for Asia to tackle sports and politics separately

Washington, 4 August (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush sets out today on his last official trip to East Asia where he is expected to tackle nuclear proliferation concerns, human rights violations, and natural disaster recovery, but also attend Olympic events, reports AP.

Iran: US office in Tehran “media speculation”

Washington, 4 August (IranVNC)—Iran’s new Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hassan Qashqavi, said today an op-ed published in the Washington Post yesterday which suggested the Bush administration would announce plans to open a diplomatic office in Tehran was “speculation”.

Iran fingerprints NBC journalist Brian Williams

Washington, 3 August (IranVNC)—NBC journalist, Brian Williams, was fingerprinted in Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport last week, Iran’s conservative Fars News Agency today quoted Ali Akbar Javanfekr, the Press Advisor to Ahmadinejad as writing in his weblog.

UN must tighten sanctions on Iran – U.S.

Washington, 3 August (IranVNC)—The U.S. today said that the United Nations has “no choice” but to tighten sanctions on Iran for its defiance of international demands to suspend its uranium enrichment work – which the West fears could be used to build a nuclear weapon.

Congress approves removal of Libya sanctions

Washington, 1 August (IranVNC)—US lawmakers voted in favor of a measure that would lift all remaining sanctions against Libya—a move that could finally lead to the compensation of the families of victims of two terrorist attacks blamed on Libya in the 1980s.

Congress condemns Iran’s persecution of Baha’is

Washington, 1 August (IranVNC)—The US House of Representatives today passed a resolution condemning what it called the “state-sponsored persecution” of Baha’is in Iran and urged that country to end repression against members of this faith.

Gates: Iran, North Korea threaten “international order”

Washington, 31 July (IranVNC)—US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has approved a new National Defense Strategy which singles out Iran, along with North Korea, as threats to the “international order”, reports the Washington Post newspaper, which has obtained a copy of the strategy.

Israel strikes if sanctions fail – Obama quoted

Washington, 31 July (IranVNC)—Democratic White House hopeful, Barack Obama, believes Israel will launch an attack against Iran if the Islamic Republic fails to comply with international sanctions, ABC News reported yesterday.

Combat troop tours in Iraq cut to one year

Washington, 31 July (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush today told reporters that because of progress made in the Iraq war, the duration of troop tours would be reduced from 15 to 12 months.

U.S. to aid Israeli missile defense system against Iran

Washington, 30 July (IranVNC)—Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak said yesterday that the United States will assist the Jewish State in setting up two missile defense systems as precaution against a possible attack from a future nuclear-armed Iran, Reuters reports.

Rice warns Iran: One way for “common ground”

Washington, 30 July (IranVNC)—Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice told Iran yesterday that it should demonstrate its desire to find “common ground” with the P5+1 by accepting the major powers’ incentives proposal, warning Tehran that it faces more sanctions if it does not respond favorably.

Former Under Secretary: Stronger sanctions to avoid military conflict with Iran

Washington, 30 July (IranVNC)—Former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns today called for stronger sanctions against Iran in order to evade a military confrontation.

Bush approves death sentence for US soldier

Washington, 29 July (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush today signed an order approving the execution of an army soldier found guilty of murder and rape, the White House said today.

Israel defense minister – “keep all options on the table”

Washington, 29 July (IranVNC)—Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak met privately with US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates at the Pentagon yesterday, where the two agreed on the threat posed by a nuclear-armed Iran, and the Israeli defense chief called for tighter sanctions on Tehran.

White House urges “skepticism” on Ahmadinejad statements

Washington, 29 July (IranVNC)—The White House yesterday urged “skepticism” toward an interview by the US television network, NBC, with Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who said he would seek “common ground” with the U.S. and other powers that have urged Iran to suspend its nuclear program.

Iran negotiator to be new Russian ambassador to US

Washington, 29 July (IranVNC )—Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has appointed Russia’s former top nuclear negotiator with Iran as the new ambassador to the United States.

Gates says war with Iran would be “disastrous” but military option still open

Washington, 28 July (IranVNC)—US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates believes that war with Iran would be “disastrous” for the United States, but that Washington should leave open the option of a military strike.

Syrian envoy to US calls for end of “state of war” with Israel

Washington, 28 July (IranVNC)—Syria’s Ambassador to the U.S. called for an end to the “state of war” between his country and Israel in remarks he made today in an interview in Washington with an American organization affiliated with Israel’s Peace Now movement.

Pakistan PM committed to US on Afghanistan

Washington, 28 July (IranVNC)—Pakistan’s Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani restated his country’s commitment to securing the Taliban and al-Qaida stronghold along the Pakistani border with Afghanistan during a meeting with President George W. Bush today, Reuters reports.

US reiterates Iran not serious at Geneva talks

Washington, 27 July (IranVNC)—The U.S. said yesterday that Iran did not treat last week’s nuclear talks in Geneva seriously and warned against further stalling by the Islamic Republic in responding to international demands to halt its uranium enrichment work.

Israeli defense minister to focus on Iran in US visit

Washington, 27 July (IranVNC)—Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak will be in Washington tomorrow, where he is scheduled to meet with senior officials for talks expected to focus on Iran, AFP reports.

Iran not expected to receive Russian missile system this year - US

Washington, 26 July (IranVNC)—Iran is not expected to receive an advanced Russian anti-aircraft missile defense system this year, the Pentagon said yesterday, challenging an earlier assessment by Israeli defense officials.

Senators stand behind Bush on Iran interests section

Washington, 25 July (IranVNC)—A group of US senators have sent a letter of congressional support for the Bush administration’s consideration of opening an interest section in Iran.

Obama tells Iran not to stall on nuclear demands

Washington, 25 July (IranVNC)—US presidential hopeful Barack Obama urged Iran today to accept an offer of incentives offered by six major powers in return for that country’s suspension of uranium enrichment, even as Iran and Russia dismissed calls for a deadline for Tehran’s response.

Italian FM to meet with Rice on Afghanistan, Iran

Washington, 25 July (IranVNC)—Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini will travel to Washington on 29 July to hold talks with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Iran’s nuclear program, the Middle East peace process, and the situation in Lebanon and Afghanistan.

Rice to try to salvage Mideast talks today

Washington, 30 July (IranVNC) —Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is meeting with top Israeli and Palestinian officials in Washington this week in one of the Bush administration’s final attempts to broker a peace agreement between the feuding sides.

US joint naval drills spark speculation of Persian Gulf preparations

Washington, 23 July (IranVNC)—Joint naval exercises that began yesterday off the eastern coast of the U.S. have sparked speculation in Israeli and Iranian media that Washington may be preparing for combat in the Persian Gulf.

Obama pledges support for Israel’s security

Washington, 23 July (IranVNC)—Democratic candidate for the US presidency Barack Obama is in Israel today where he pledged his staunch support for the Jewish state and reiterated his commitment to further the establishment of an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal if elected.

Former presidential advisors criticize US preconditions for negotiating with Iran

Washington, 22 July (IranVNC)— A former presidential advisor, Zbigniew Brzezinski, joined other experts today at a panel discussion on how to diplomatically deal with Iran’s nuclear ambitions hosted by a Washington think tank, where he openly criticized US policy of setting preconditions as a basis for opening negotiations with Iran.

Obama, White House condemn Jerusalem bulldozer rampage

Washington, 22 July (IranVNC)—Ahead of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s visit to Jerusalem, a Palestinian man drove a bulldozer into vehicles in the city wounding at least 16 people, Reuters reports.

Rice talks about Iran nuclear program with Arab allies

Washington, 22 July (IranVNC)—US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice stopped in Abu Dhabi yesterday to consult with her Arab counterparts on the nuclear dispute with Iran and new developments following Saturday’s nuclear talks between major powers and Iran in Geneva.

Obama and Iraqi leaders confer on US withdrawal from Iraq

Washington, 22 July (IranVNC)—Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is in Iraq’s Anbar Province today where he held talks with influential Sunni Arab tribal leaders to elicit their opinion of a strategic withdrawal of US troops from the war-torn country.

Human rights group calls for release of detained Iranian AIDS experts

Washington, 21 July (IranVNC)—The U.S.-based rights watchdog, Human Rights Watch, called today for two Iranian physicians and brothers, renowned for their work on HIV/AIDS, who have recently been detained to be either charged or immediately released.

White House questions likelihood of Iran accepting 5+1 offer

Washington, 21 July (IranVNC)—The White House today hinted that it expects Iran to reject a package of incentives that six major powers – the U.S., UK, France, China, Russia and Germany – have offered that country to end its uranium enrichment work, and warned of further sanctions.

Obama meets Iraqi Prime Minister, US commander to discuss security

Washington, 21 July (IranVNC)—Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama was in Iraq today, where he met with that country’s Prime Minister, Nuri al-Maliki, and will meet later with the top US commander, General David Petraeus, to discuss the security situation in Iraq, where violence is at a four-year low.

Rice urges Iran to give “serious answer” on nuclear program

Washington, 21 July (IranVNC)—Iran could face more sanctions if it does not give a “serious answer” to international demands that it suspend nuclear enrichment, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said.

Top Bush adviser says Iran on nuclear “path”

Washington, 20 July (IranVNC)—The chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff said today that he believed Iran was moving toward acquiring a nuclear weapon, which he described as a “devastating possibility”.

“Time horizon” set for US troop reductions in Iraq

Washington, 18 July (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki agreed yesterday to set a “time horizon” for the reduction of US troops from that country, despite the President’s resistance to deadlines for troop withdrawals.

Rice says no shift in policy with presence at Geneva talks

Washington, 18 July (IranVNC)—US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice today said that Washington’s decision to send one of its most senior diplomats to attend talks in Geneva on Iran’s nuclear program did not signal a shift in policy.

Possible U.S. plans to open interests section in Tehran after 30 years

Washington, 18 July (IranVNC) – European and American officials said on Thursday that the Bush administration is considering establishing an interests section in Tehran, a move that will bring an American diplomatic presence to Iran’s capital for the first time in 30 years.

U.S. to announce plans for diplomatic presence in Iran soon – Daily

Washington, 17 July (IranVNC)—The United States is to announce in the next month plans to establish its interests section in Tehran, “a halfway house to setting up a full embassy”, the London-based Guardian newspaper reports today.

US House passes intelligence funding bill

Washington, 17 July (IranVNC)—The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation yesterday on funding for next year’s budget for funding intelligence agencies, defying a presidential veto threat by including a provision that would bar CIA contractors from interrogating suspected terrorists.

U.S. says presence in Iran nuclear talks shows commitment to diplomacy

Washington, 17 July (IranVNC)—One day after the U.S. announced it would send one of its most senior diplomats to attend talks on Iran’s nuclear program this weekend, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice today said the move is aimed at underlining Washington’s commitment to a diplomatic solution.

US military proposes combat ship sale worth billions to Israel

Washington, 17 July (IranVNC)—The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency released a statement on Monday notifying Congress of a possible sale of Littoral Combat Ships to Israel.

US Senate committee approves new Iran sanctions bill

Washington, 17 July (IranVNC)—The US Senate Banking Committee today overwhelmingly approved a bill that would impose further trade and economic sanctions against Iran and allow investors the option to divest funds from firms that have invested in the country’s energy sector.

More US troop deployments to Afghanistan possible this year

Washington, 16 July (IranVNC)—U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said today that the Pentagon is considering sending more US troops to Afghanistan this year, in response to an increase in insurgent violence, according to a Defense Department release.

US official says Iran missiles capable of striking Europe

Washington 16 July (IranVNC)—A top US official said yesterday that Iran does possess the ability of launching a ballistic missile capable of hitting sections of eastern and southern Europe, thus contradicting earlier statements by US and Western analysts that recently-tested Iranian missiles could not reach Israel.

Top US diplomat to attend Iran nuclear talks

Washington, 16 July (IranVNC)—Washington will send one of its most senior diplomats to attend talks between EU foreign policy chief, Javier Solana, and Iran’s nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili, on 19 July in Geneva, the White House said today.

Obama says US should use all tools to pressure Iran

Washington, 16 July (IranVNC)—Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said yesterday he would use all tools to pressure Tehran into halting its sensitive nuclear enrichment program, and he added that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons was a “vital national security interest” of the U.S.

Wife of missing F.B.I. official to visit Iran again

Washington, 16 July (IranVNC)—Christine Levinson, wife of former F.B.I. official Robert Levinson, who disappeared on March 2007 from the southern Iranian island of Kish, announced Monday that she will visit Iran for the second time to press Iranian officials to help locate her husband.

Bush criticizes Iran for “anti-Semitism”

Washington, 14 July (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush today criticized the status of human rights in Iran, Saudi Arabia and China in a speech marking the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the International Religious Freedom Act by US lawmakers.

Bush gives Israel “amber light” to strike Iran – Sunday Times

Washington, 13 July (IranVNC)—U.S. President George W. Bush has given Israel an “amber light” to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities, the London-based Sunday Times newspaper reported today.

U.S., Iraq abandon talks on long-term security pact – Washington Post

Washington, 13 July (IranVNC)—The United States and Iraq have ended efforts to reach a long-term security agreement defining the presence of US troops in that country before President George W. Bush leaves office, The Washington Post reports.

Rice tells Iran U.S. will defend allies in the region

Washington, 10 July (IranVNC)—Following yesterday’s test-firing of nine missiles by Iran, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice warned Tehran today that the U.S. will defend its allies in the region. Iran test-fired more missiles last night, state television reported, including shore-to-sea, surface-to-surface and sea-to-air missiles.

Russian reaction to US missile defense plans “disappointing” – Rice

Washington, 9 July (IranVNC)—US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice called Russia’s reaction to US plans to install a missile defense shield in Eastern Europe “disappointing” given US efforts to reassure Moscow that it would not be the target of the system.

U.S. condemns Iran missile tests

Washington 9 July (IranVNC)—The United States today condemned missile tests carried out by Iran as part of a military exercise in the Persian Gulf.

US exports to Iran increase tenfold during Bush years – AP

Washington, 9 July (IranVNC)—The United States exports to Iran have increased tenfold during the Bush administration, AP reported yesterday. American exports to Iran included “bull semen, cosmetics, fur clothing, sculptures, perfume, musical instruments and possibly even weapons” as well as $158 million worth of cigarettes, AP reported yesterday, citing US government records as its source.

US presidential candidates condemn Iran missile test

Washington, 9 July (IranVNC)—Presumptive US presidential nominees John McCain and Barack Obama both called for tougher moves against Iran, after the country test-fired nine missiles this morning, including the Shahab-3, which is capable of reaching Israel.

UN sanctions “impair” progress on Iran nuclear program – U.S.

Washington, 9 July (IranVNC)—International sanctions have slowed down Iran’s progress on its nuclear program, a top US State Department official told the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs today.

US, Czech Republic sign missile agreement

Washington, 8 July (IranVNC)—U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg today signed a missile defense plan in Prague, in which the Czech Republic will host the radar component of a system meant to protect Europe from potential missile attacks by “rogue states”, such as Iran.

U.S. places new sanctions on Iranian firms, individuals

Washington, 8 July (IranVNC)—The U.S. Treasury and State Department today announced new sanctions against five Iranian firms and six individuals in connection to the country’s nuclear program, a measure intended to further pressure Tehran into suspending its uranium enrichment activities.

Watchdogs call on Iran to stay youth executions, says Human Rights Watch

Washington, 8 July (IranVNC)—Human Rights Watch said today that “24 international and regional human rights organizations”, including Amnesty International, called on Iran’s authorities to pardon four individuals facing execution who have been convicted of capital offenses they committed while under the age of 18.

Bush, Medvedev agree on Iran, clash on missile defense

Washington, 7 July (IranVNC)—US President George W. Bush and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said yesterday that they that they would cooperate to persuade Iran to give up its nuclear program, but clashed over US plans to install a missile defense system in central Europe.

US, UK and Bahrain conduct joint Naval exercise in Persian Gulf

Washington, 7 July (IranVNC)—As Iran repeats threats of closing the Strait of Hormoz, Commander of the Combined Maritime Task Force of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command announced today that “ships from Bahrain, the U.K. and U.S. are currently conducting joint exercises” – nicknamed Exercise Stake Net – “to protect key economic infrastructure” in the Central and Southern Persian Gulf.

Use of military force against Iran “last option” - US envoy

Washington, 4 July (IranVNC)—The U.S. ambassador to Israel yesterday said either country is unlikely to attack Iran in the near future.

U.S. celebrates Independence Day

Washington, 4 July (IranVNC)—The United States today celebrates 232 years of independence. On this day in 1776, the Second Continental Congress of the 13 original colonies published a document known as the Declaration of Independence, enumerating its reasons for seeking independence from Great Britain.

Colombia rescues 15 hostages from left-wing insurgents

Washington, 3 July (IranVNC)—Colombia yesterday rescued 15 hostages, including French-Colombian politician Ingrid Betancourt and three Americans, from the hands of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known as the FARC.

U.S. says Iran must follow “positive words” with positive actions

Washington, 3 July (IranVNC)—The United States said yesterday that Iran needs to follow through on positive words with positive actions after Iran’s foreign minister yesterday said that he saw “a new trend” in nuclear negotiations with the six major powers.

No direct U.S. request for diplomatic post in Tehran - Iran FM

Washington, 2 July (IranVNC)—Iran’s Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki today, said Iran had not received a request from the United States to open an “interest section” in Tehran.

US expresses “deep regret” over 1988 Iran Air shooting

Washington, 3 July (IranVNC)—The US State Department yesterday expressed “deep regret” on the 20th anniversary of a US missile attack on an Iranian civilian plane that killed 290 passengers over the Strait of Hormoz.

As NPT turns 40, US “very concerned” about Iran

Washington, 2 July (IranVNC)—Marking the 40th anniversary of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty [NPT], the United States yesterday said it was concerned that countries like Iran had “violated” the agreement.

Obama aide says nuclear Iran “dangerous” - daily

Washington, 2 July (IranVNC)—A senior foreign policy advisor to Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama has said that an Iran capable of making nuclear weapons would become the biggest threat to the U.S.

Nations must send “focused message” to Iran, says Bush

Washington, 2 July (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush today said that the United States must work with other nations to send a “focused message” to Iran and persuade it to cease uranium enrichment activities, adding that diplomacy remained the preferred approach to resolving Iran’s nuclear standoff with the West.

US says Iran will not be allowed to close vital waterway

Washington, 30 June (IranVNC)—The United States will not allow Iran to shut the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway in the Persian Gulf that carries as much as 40 percent of the world’s crude oil, the commander of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet said today.

Congress approved expansion of covert ops against Iran – report

Washington, 29 June (IranVNC)—The US Congress last year approved a request from President George W. Bush for up to $400 million to expand covert operations against Iran in an effort to destabilize the Iranian government, according to an article published on The New Yorker magazine’s website today.

US Senate approves funds for Iraq, Afghanistan wars

Washington, 27 June (IranVNC)—The United States Senate today approved nearly $161.8 billion for US operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, AP reports.

U.S. delays handover of Iraq’s Anbar province

Washington, 27 June (IranVNC)—The United States military today postponed handing over to Iraqi forces security control of the country’s mainly Sunni Anbar province on Saturday.

Former US officials urge tougher sanctions, bigger incentives for Iran

Washington, 27 June (IranVNC)—The United States’ “only responsible position as a nation” is to end diplomatic efforts with Iran and to show the Islamic Republic that the U.S. will use force if it does not give up its nuclear program, Elizabeth Cheney, a former state department official and daughter of Vice-President Dick Cheney, said yesterday.

U.S. lifts some N.Korea sanctions after nuclear declaration

Washington, 26 June (IranVNC)—The Bush administration lifted trade sanctions imposed on North Korea under the Trading with the Enemy Act following Pyongyang delivery of its long-awaited declaration of nuclear activities to Chinese officials today.

North Korea to give nuke declaration tomorrow

Washington, 25 June (IranVNC)—The Group of Eight foreign minister will meet in Kyoto, Japan tomorrow where the White House expects to receive the long-awaited declaration from North Korea of all its nuclear activities.

Bush, Iraqi president to meet today in Washington

Washington, 25 June (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush will meet Iraqi President Jalal Talabani today in Washington to discuss efforts to broker a deal on US military presence in Iraq after 2008.

Rice: U.S. “determined” to reach out to Iranian people

Washington, 24 June (IranVNC)—US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said yesterday that the United States was determined to engage the Iranian people, but would not say whether Washington might open an interest section in Tehran in the near future.

Iraq violence down, new strategy needed – US reports

Washington, 24 June—Two new government reports released yesterday said that Iraq’s security situation had improved over the last year but remained fragile, and that a new strategy was needed to improve prospects for political and military progress.

Blast kills 11, wounds 10 in Baghdad Shiite district

Washington, 24 June (IranVNC)—A bomb killed 10 people – six Iraqi civilians, one Italian civilian, two US soldiers and two civilian US government employees – just before a council meeting in southeastern Baghdad, officials reported today.

US could move to open interest section in Iran “within weeks” – daily

Washington, 23 June (IranVNC)—The U.S. may soon decide to open an interest section – staffed by US diplomats – in Tehran, in an effort to “shake up” US policy before the next president takes office next year, a Washington Post editorial reported today.

House approves $162 billion for Iraq, Afghanistan wars

Washington, 20 June (IranVNC)—The US House of Representatives approved the bill to provide $162 billion addition funds for the ongoing wars in Afghanistan and Iraq today, as well as doubling the college aid for returning troop, AP reports.

Rice for talks with Iran if enrichment stops temporarily

Washington, 20 June (IranVNC)—Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said yesterday that she is willing to talk to Iran’s Foreign Minister Manoucher Mottaki if the country temporarily suspends its enrichment activities, which the West suspects Iran is using to develop a nuclear arsenal.

Rice urges Iran to follow “Libya model”

Washington, 19 June (IranVNC)—US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice today urged Iran and North Korea to make the strategic decision to follow the “Libya model” of a former “adversary” that abandoned its weapons program and rejoined the international community.

U.S. targets alleged Venezuelan supporters of Hezbollah

Washington, 19 June (IranVNC)—The United States Treasury Department yesterday designated two individuals based in Venezuela as supporters of Lebanon’s Shiite militant group Hezbollah, and froze their U.S. assets.

Russia apprehensive over US-Lithuania missile site talks

Washington, 19 June (IranVNC)—Talks between the U.S. and Lithuania over hosting a controversial US missile shield “could not but provoke anxiety” in Moscow, a senior Russian lawmaker warned yesterday, reports the London-based Financial Times.

Senate: Penalties for firms dealing with Iran

Washington, 18 June (IranVNC)—US lawmakers convened today and united in the push for stronger economic sanctions against Iran by supporting new legislation that would take a firmer stance in punishing foreign companies that do business with Iran.

Bush pushes for end to offshore drilling ban

Washington, 18 June (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush urged Congress today to remove the long-time ban on offshore drilling for gas and oil in hopes to increase US energy production and lower gas prices, which are a topping $4 a gallon, reports AP.

Pakistani scientist denies selling designs for compact nuclear weapons

Washington, 17 June (IranVNC)—Pakistani scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan today denied sharing blueprints for an advanced nuclear weapon with Iran and other “rogue” countries, and blamed Western countries for nuclear proliferation.

Bush to inspect flood damage in Iowa

Washington, 17 June (IranVNC)—US President George W Bush on Thursday will visit the central state of Iowa to inspect damage caused by massive flooding along the Mississippi River there that has forced thousands to leave their homes.

Rice in Lebanon, supports new government

Washington, 16 June (IranVNC)—U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice made an unannounced visit to Lebanon today, after a stop in Israel, saying that she supported Lebanon’s democratic institutions set up after last month’s unity-government deal that ended a violent political crisis.

Bush calls for “universal ” sanctions against Iran

Washington, 15 June (IranVNC)—The West needs to increase pressure on Iran in order to secure the Middle East or risk a nuclear arms race in the region, US President George W. Bush said in an interview published today.

US, France urge establishment of “full” Lebanon-Syria ties

Washington, 15 June (IranVNC)—The United States and France yesterday issued a joint statement of support for Lebanon in which they called for the establishment of “full” diplomatic relations between Beirut and Damascus.

White House slams as “shameful” Iran’s human rights

Washington, 14 June (IranVNC)—A White House spokesperson today described Tehran’s record on human rights as “shameful” and called for the immediate release of six detained Baha’i community leaders.

Bush meets Pope ahead of Paris visit

Washington, 13 June (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush continued his week-long European tour today with a visit to the Vatican for a private meeting with Pope Benedict XVI, after which he headed to Paris where he will deliver a speech tomorrow focusing on US-EU ties and unity.

Global opinion of US improved, says poll

Washington, 13 June (IranVNC)—The Pew Research Center released the results of its latest survey on the global view of America, marking an increase in positive global opinions of the U.S. since the onset of the unpopular Iraq war, although a negative view still prevails.

U.S. needs allies to help in defense against Iran

Washington, 12 June (IranVNC)—A top US Army officer said yesterday that the United States needs the support of its allies to build a planned missile shield in Eastern Europe, which it says will counter a potential missile threat from Iran.

Bush to press Italian PM on Iran and Afghanistan

Washington, 12 June (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush is in Rome today, where he will ask Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi to step up pressure on Iran to stop its nuclear program, and to pledge more troops for the ongoing war in Afghanistan.

Bush says he will abide by Supreme Court decision on Guantanamo detainees

Washington, 12 June (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush said today that he will abide by a Supreme Court decision that says Guantanamo Bay prisoners can challenge their detention in U.S. federal courts.

U.S. lawmakers skeptical of nuclear deal with Russia

Washington, 12 June (IranVNC)—Democrat and Republican lawmakers today told the Bush administration they were concerned that a US-Russia civilian nuclear agreement would reward Moscow despite its ongoing nuclear cooperation with Iran, which worries the United States’ government.

Bush pushes for diplomacy with Iran but says “all options open”

Washington, 11 June (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush threatened Iran with more sanctions on Wednesday if the country refuses to stop its uranium enrichment program, and said every option is on the table to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

U.S-Iraq security agreement may be delayed – US envoy

Washington, 10 June (IranVNC)—The U.S. may not complete its Status of Forces Agreement [SOFA] with Iraq before President George W. Bush leaves office, a senior administration official close to the talks said today, according to AP.

Bush: US, EU must “work together” on Iran

Washington, 10 June (IranVNC)—Speaking at his last joint U.S.-EU Summit in Slovenia today, President George W. Bush said the United States and the European Union must prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. “Now’s the time for us to work together to stop them,” Bush said.

Bush to urge EU to extend Iran sanctions

Washington, 9 June (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush headed for Europe today to urge EU leaders to step up economic sanctions against Iran in what is perhaps his last visit to the region as U.S. president, reports the Financial Times.

U.S. forces in Iraq will not be used against Iran – Pentagon

Washington, 9 June (IranVNC)—The United States does not plan to use soldiers that remain in Iraq under a potential U.S.-Iraq security agreement to attack Iran, the U.S. Defense Department said today.

Laura Bush pushes for more Afghan aid during visit

Washington, 8 June (IranVNC)—First lady Laura Bush made an unannounced visit to Afghanistan today, where she appealed to the international community to increase its support for the war-weary country, which is facing a resurgence in violence at the hands of the Taliban.

Rights group says Iran political prisoners need medical care

Washington, 6 June (IranVNC)—The New York-based Human Rights Watch [HRW] has called on Iran to grant medical care to three men in poor health who are being detained on political charges in Tehran’s Evin prison.

Human traffickers disbanded in northwestern Iran - military

Washington, 6 June (IranVNC)—An army brigade broke-up a band of “human traffickers” in the western city of Tabriz, in West Azarbayjan Province, Reza Rezvani, a spokesman for the Second Mechanized brigade of the 31st Ashura Army Division said on Thursday, according to Fars News Agency reports.

U.S. re-examines case of wrongfully accused terror suspect

Washington, 6 June (IranVNC) – The U.S. Justice Department’s ethics office is re-examining the results of an investigation into the deportation of Syrian-born Canadian citizen Maher Arar, to Syria, where, according to Canadian authorities, he was tortured in jail for almost a year, U.S. officials said on Thursday.

Olmert, Bush meet on Iranian nuke threat, other issues

Washington, 5 June (IranVNC)—Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert ended his trip to America with a meeting with President George W. Bush to talk about Iran’s nuclear drive and the future of the Middle East while Olmert faces an uncertain remainder of his term when he returns to Israel.

Clinton to give up White House hopes Saturday

Washington, 5 June (IranVNC)—New York Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton will relinquish her bid to be the Democratic Party’s nominee for President of the United States on Saturday, and rally support for her former opponent, Illinois Senator Barack Obama.

Obama makes history as Democratic nominee

Washington, 4 June (IranVNC)—Illinois Senator Barack Obama won the Democratic Party nomination for president yesterday, marking a significant milestone in U.S. history as the first African-American nominee of a major political party.

Syria must grant total access to IAEA, U.S. demands

Washington, 4 June (IranVNC)—Washington demanded today that United Nations nuclear investigators be given full access to U.S.-suspected nuclear sites in Syria after diplomats said Damascus will restrict the investigation to the facility destroyed last year by an Israeli air raid, Reuters reports.

EU to present incentives package to Iran this month

Washington, 4 June (IranVNC)—European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana confirmed today that he will travel to Iran to present the Islamic Republic with a fresh package of incentives to entice it to halt its uranium enrichment.

Obama vows to stop Iran from going nuclear

Washington, 4 June (IranVNC)--Senator Barack Obama told America's largest pro-Israel lobby today that the United States would do all it could to keep Tehran from going nuclear.

U.S. calls for release of Tiananmen detainees on anniversary of massacre

Washington, 4 June (IranVNC)—The United States commemorated the 19th anniversary of the killings at Tiananmen Square yesterday and called for the release of those still serving sentences in China for taking part in the pro-democracy protests.

Ahmadinejad anti-Israel remarks isolate Iran’s people - White House

Washington, 3 June (IranVNC)—President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Monday repeated his anti-Israel remarks at a ceremony in Tehran today, marking the 19th anniversary of the death of the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Rice offers talks with Iran if Tehran abandons enrichment

Washington, 3 June (IranVNC)—U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice today reiterated her offer to talk to Iranian leaders if Tehran suspends its uranium enrichment activities.

Clinton open to vice presidential slot – party aide

Washington, 3 June (IranVNC)—Democratic hopeful Hillary Rodham Clinton said today that she is open to running alongside Barack Obama as the vice-president if it would strengthen the party’s chances in the November general election.

McCain calls for divestment campaign against Iran

Washington, 2 June (IranVNC)—The international community should create

5+1 to present fresh incentives to Iran in June

Washington, 2 June (IranVNC)—The 5+1 group plans to present to Iran in mid-June a revised incentives package aimed at persuading Iran to suspend its uranium enrichment activities, U.S. State Department spokesperson Sean McCormack said today.

Iran keeping nuclear option “open” – U.S. official

Washington 30 May (IranVNC)—Iran remains a threat to U.S. interests despite a 2007 intelligence estimate of Iran’s nuclear activities that critics say downplayed Tehran’s ambitions, a senior U.S. intelligence official said last night.

Iran slams U.S. over Iraq “occupation”

Washington, 30 May (IranVNC)—At an international conference on rebuilding Iraq in Stockholm yesterday, Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki reiterated Iran’s commitment to playing a constructive role in the development of Iraq, and slammed the United States and its allies for their many “mistaken policies” implemented in Iraq, Reuters reports.

Rice to review withdrawn scholarships for Palestinians

Washington, 30 May (IranVNC)—U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said today she is reviewing the State Department’s withdrawal of U.S. scholarships to Palestinian students living in Gaza.

U.S. tells Iran to stop “non-cooperation”

Washington, 29 May (IranVNC)—The U.S. said yesterday that Iran has to provide more explanations regarding its controversial nuclear program after Monday’s report by the International Atomic Energy Agency [IAEA] which said that the Islamic Republic’s alleged research into nuclear warheads was of “serious concern”.

U.S. condemns Iran’s human rights violations—report

Washington, 29 May (IranVNC)—The U.S. Department of State has condemned the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for its on-going multifaceted violations of its citizens’ human rights.

U.S. withdraws 4,000 troops from Iraq

Washington, 29 May (IranVNC)—The U.S. military announced today that an additional 4,000 surge troops will return home from Iraq.

Ex-aide slams Bush over Iraq war “propaganda”

Washington, 29 May (IranVNC)—Former White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan has written a tell-all book entitled “What Happened inside the Bush White House and Washington’s Culture of Deception,” about his experience in the White House.

Rice not expected to meet Iran minister in Stockholm

Washington, 28 May (IranVNC)—U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is not scheduled to meet with foreign ministers from Iran or Syria at the international conference on Iraq in Stockholm, Sweden tomorrow, the State Department said yesterday.

Bush endorsement said to hurt McCain in November

Washington, 28 May (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush joined presumptive Republican nominee for President John McCain on the campaign trail yesterday, sparking analysts to wonder if Bush’s endorsement will prove detrimental to McCain’s election hopes.

Iranian-American engineer guilty of using nuclear software

Washington, 28 May (IranVNC)—An Iranian-American engineer was convicted yesterday of illegally accessing a protected computer to use training software he acquired at his former job at an Arizona nuclear power plant, AP reports.

Iran: Military force or regime change only options, says ex-U.S. envoy

Washington, 28 May (IranVNC)—Former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton said today that the West has not done enough to ensure change in Iran and has therefore only allowed two options to resolve the issue: Regime change or use of military force, Reuters reports.

Obama says won’t necessarily meet Ahmadinejad

Washington, 27 May (IranVNC)—Democratic Presidential hopeful Barack Obama said yesterday that his willingness to talk to the leaders of U.S. adversaries, like Iran, does not necessarily mean he will meet with Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Reuters reported.

McCain addresses Iran nuke threat in Colorado speech

Washington 27 May (IranVNC)—Presumptive Republican presidential nominee John McCain discussed Iran’s nuclear threat during his speech on foreign policy today, while campaigning in Denver, Colorado.

U.S. says U.N. nuclear report on Iran “troubling”

Washington, 27 May (IranVNC)—The United States today called Iran’s lack of transparency with the International Atomic Energy Agency [IAEA] “troubling”.

Bush marks Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery

Washington, 26 May (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush spoke today to commemorate U.S. soldiers who lost their lives on the battlefields during a Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.

NASA completes first successful landing on Mars

Washington, 26 May (IranVNC)—NASA’s newest Mars-bound space probe landed on the Red Planet’s seemingly barren north pole on Sunday to search for a frozen reservoir under the planet’s surface that scientists believe could contain signs of organic life.

Reward offered for ex-FBI agent missing in Iran

Bush: Withdrawal from Iraq strengthens Iran

Washington, 23 May (IranVNC)—President George W. Bush yesterday reaffirmed his commitment to success in the Iraq war, and warned that a hasty withdrawal would embolden Iran’ nuclear ambitions and the militia groups supported by the Islamic Republic.

Pelosi denies Iran naval blockade talks with Olmert

Washington, 23 May (IranVNC)—U.S House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi denied reports of discussing a U.S. Naval blockade against Iran with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, yesterday.

U.S. views Lebanon agreement as “positive step”

Washington, May 22 (IranVNC) – In a statement released on Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice welcomed the agreement reached in Qatar between rival Lebanese leaders.

Petraeus says Iran influence in Iraq “malign”, “lethal”

Washington, May 22 (IranVNC)—U.S. Army General David Petraeus answered questions on the Iraq war and Iran’s influence there in a testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee today.

Lawmakers slam oil executives for misplaced investments

Washington, May 22 (IranVNC)—Executives from five major oil companies made their way to Congress today to address a recent report suggesting that the executives used record-breaking profits to boost their compensation and prop up their stock price instead of investing in renewable energy technology.

Congress approves 165 billion dollars for Iraq, Afghanistan wars

Washington, May 22 (IranVNC)—The U.S. Senate approved $165 billion to fund the ongoing war in Iraq and Afghanistan for the next year by an overwhelming majority.

Gates questions benefits of talks with Ahmadinejad’s government

Washington, May 21 (IranVNC)—U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates doubted the U.S could have productive talks with Iran’s President Mahmoud Amadinejad without increasing international pressure on the Islamic Republic to yield to Western demands.

Obama closer to presidential nomination

Washington, May 21 (IranVNC)—The Democratic primary elections in Oregon and Kentucky ended yesterday leaving Illinois Senator Barack Obama just 65 delegates shy of securing the presidential nomination over rival Hilary Clinton.

Bush signs bill to suspend shipments to U.S. oil reserve

Kentucky and Oregon Primaries could cement Obama as nominee

Washington, May 20 (IranVNC)—Tuesday could mark an end to the lengthy Democratic primary elections as wins in Oregon and Kentucky could make Senator Barack Obama the presumptive Democratic nominee for president.

Pelosi: A nuclear-armed Iran threatens entire world

Washington, May 20 (IranVNC)—U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, while heading a bipartisan delegation to Israel to commemorate the Jewish State’s 60th anniversary, warned against Iran’s nuclear threat on Monday.

N.Korea to make nuclear declaration soon

Washington, May 20 (IranVNC)—America’s chief envoy to the six-party talks on North Korea’s nuclear program, Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Hill, told reporters yesterday that the stalled negotiations would speed up in the next few weeks and said Pyongyang seemed close to handing over the declaration of its nuclear program.

U.S. needs to exploit Iran’s “significant vulnerabilities,” –Rice

Washington, May 19 (IranVNC)—Returning to Washington from a trip to the Middle East, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice outlined Iran’s “vulnerabilities” that the U.S. must exploit in order to deal with the American-foe.