tass--2020-01-08--Trump informed on missile attacks at US military facilities in Iraq

Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on early Wednesday that `` Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq , '' adding that `` missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil . ''
`` We are aware of the reports of attacks on US facilities in Iraq , '' the statement reads .
`` The president has been briefed and is monitoring the situation closely and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' WASHINGTON , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
US President Donald Trump is closely monitoring the situation with the reported missile attacks on US military facilities in Iraq , White House Spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said in a statement on Wednesday .
The statement did not specify the damage or casualties following the missile attacks on the facilities saying `` We are working on initial battle damage assessments . ''
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) officially claimed responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces , which are involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be subjected to military attacks .
Iran ’ s news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the IRGC as saying that the operation in Iraq was code-named ‘ Martyr Soleimani.
’ '' During the operation code-named Martyr Soleimani , soldiers of the IRGC armed forces launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles and destroyed the US Air Force base , '' the IRGC stated .
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( the elite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport .
The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump .
According to the US Administration , the operation was defensive , as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East .
According to Washington , the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis .
After the attack , Iran ’ s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the killing of Soleimani , blaming the US for the attack .
In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres , Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US .

Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on early Wednesday that "Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq," adding that "missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil."
"We are aware of the reports of attacks on US facilities in Iraq," the statement reads. "The president has been briefed and is monitoring the situation closely and consulting with his national security team."
WASHINGTON, January 8. /TASS/. US President Donald Trump is closely monitoring the situation with the reported missile attacks on US military facilities in Iraq, White House Spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said in a statement on Wednesday.
The statement did not specify the damage or casualties following the missile attacks on the facilities saying "We are working on initial battle damage assessments."
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officially claimed responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces, which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran, would be subjected to military attacks.
Iran’s news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the IRGC as saying that the operation in Iraq was code-named ‘Martyr Soleimani.’
"During the operation code-named Martyr Soleimani, soldiers of the IRGC armed forces launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles and destroyed the US Air Force base," the IRGC stated.
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport. The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump.
According to the US Administration, the operation was defensive, as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East. According to Washington, the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis.
After the attack, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in the killing of Soleimani, blaming the US for the attack. In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US.


tass--2020-01-08--US forces involved in aggression against Iran to come under attacks — IRGC

The IRGC also stated that the operation of the Iranian military against US facilities in Iraq was code-named ‘ Martyr Soleimani.
’ '' We are informing the US authorities that any territory , which will be used for the aggression against Iran , will be attacked , '' the statement reads .
TEHRAN , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
US forces , which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran , will be subjected to military attacks , Iran ’ s state-run news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soldiers of the IRGC armed forces launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles and destroyed the US Air Force base , '' the IRGC stated .
Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on early Wednesday that `` Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq , '' adding that `` missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil . ''
The situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( the elite wing of the Iranian military ) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport .
The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump .
According to the US Administration , the operation was defensive , as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East .
According to Washington , the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iraqis .
After the attack , Iran ’ s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact `` severe revenge '' on those involved in the killing of Soleimani , blaming the US for the attack .
In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres , Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US .

The IRGC also stated that the operation of the Iranian military against US facilities in Iraq was code-named ‘Martyr Soleimani.’
"We are informing the US authorities that any territory, which will be used for the aggression against Iran, will be attacked," the statement reads.
TEHRAN, January 8. /TASS/. US forces, which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran, will be subjected to military attacks, Iran’s state-run news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
"During the operation code-named Martyr Soleimani, soldiers of the IRGC armed forces launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles and destroyed the US Air Force base," the IRGC stated.
Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said in a statement on early Wednesday that "Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq," adding that "missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil."
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport. The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump.
According to the US Administration, the operation was defensive, as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East. According to Washington, the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis.
After the attack, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in the killing of Soleimani, blaming the US for the attack. In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US.


tass--2020-01-08--Iran delivers second round of attacks on US military facilities — Tasnim news agency

‘ Legal notice not required ’ if US strikes back should Iran strike US target , says Trump US President @ @ @ @ @ notice is not required , but is given nevertheless ’

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tass--2020-01-08--Iran launches over a dozen ballistic missiles at US military facilities in Iraq — Pentagon

WASHINGTON , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Iran has delivered missile strikes against at least two military facilities in western Iraq , where US troops are deployed , a statement from Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman stated on Wednesday .
At least 35 people killed in stampede at Soleimani funeral in Iran '' At approximately 5:30 p.m. ( EST ) on January 7 , Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against U.S. military and coalition forces in Iraq , '' the statement reads .
`` It is clear that these missiles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil . ''
Hoffman stated that `` In recent days and in response to Iranian threats and actions , the Department of Defense has taken all appropriate measures to safeguard our personnel and partners . ''
`` These bases have been on high alert due to indications that the Iranian regime planned to attack our forces and interests in the region , '' he said .
The statement did not specify the damage or casualties following the missile attacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working on initial battle damage assessments . ''
`` As we evaluate the situation and our response , we will take all necessary measures to protect and defend U.S. personnel , partners , and allies in the region , '' the statement added .
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) officially claimed the responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces , which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran , would be subjected to military attacks .
Iran ’ s news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iraq was code-named ‘ Martyr Soleimani.
’ '' During the operation code-named Martyr Soleimani , soldiers of the IRGC armed forces launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles and destroyed the US Air Force base , '' the IRGC stated .
Al Hadath television channel reported on Wednesday Several US military aircraft were destroyed as a result of missile attacks on Al Asad airbase in the west of Iraq .
White House Spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said in a statement that President Trump was informed about the missile attacks in Iraq .
`` The president has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closely and consulting with his national security team , '' Grisham stated .
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( the elite wing of the Iranian military ) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport .
The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump .
According to the US Administration , the operation was defensive , as it was aimed at protecting US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to Washington , the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis .
After the attack , Iran ’ s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact `` severe revenge '' on those involved in the killing of Soleimani , blaming the US for the attack .
In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres , Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US .

WASHINGTON, January 8. /TASS/. Iran has delivered missile strikes against at least two military facilities in western Iraq, where US troops are deployed, a statement from Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman stated on Wednesday.
At least 35 people killed in stampede at Soleimani funeral in Iran
"At approximately 5:30 p.m. (EST) on January 7, Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against U.S. military and coalition forces in Iraq," the statement reads. "It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil."
Hoffman stated that "In recent days and in response to Iranian threats and actions, the Department of Defense has taken all appropriate measures to safeguard our personnel and partners."
"These bases have been on high alert due to indications that the Iranian regime planned to attack our forces and interests in the region," he said.
The statement did not specify the damage or casualties following the missile attacks on the facilities saying "We are working on initial battle damage assessments."
"As we evaluate the situation and our response, we will take all necessary measures to protect and defend U.S. personnel, partners, and allies in the region," the statement added.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officially claimed the responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces, which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran, would be subjected to military attacks.
Iran’s news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the IRGC as saying that the operation in Iraq was code-named ‘Martyr Soleimani.’
"During the operation code-named Martyr Soleimani, soldiers of the IRGC armed forces launched dozens of ground-to-ground missiles and destroyed the US Air Force base," the IRGC stated.
Al Hadath television channel reported on Wednesday Several US military aircraft were destroyed as a result of missile attacks on Al Asad airbase in the west of Iraq.
White House Spokeswoman Stephanie Grisham said in a statement that President Trump was informed about the missile attacks in Iraq.
"The president has been briefed and is monitoring the situation closely and consulting with his national security team," Grisham stated.
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport. The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump.
According to the US Administration, the operation was defensive, as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East. According to Washington, the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis.
After the attack, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in the killing of Soleimani, blaming the US for the attack. In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US.


tass--2020-01-09--Iran revenges for Soleimani’s killing, plans no new military action - envoy to UN

THE UNITED NATIONS , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
Iran has completed its revenge for the killing of General Qassem Soleimani and won ’ t take any new military steps if there is no US aggression , Iranian Permanent Representative to the United Nations Majid Takht-Ravanchi has said .
`` Our action was proportionate to the assassination of Qassem Soleimani .
Our action was completed .
So if the Americans do not act militarily against Iran , as far as Iran is concerned we are not going to act in return , '' Majid Takht-Ravanchi said answering a TASS question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump ’ s statement .
The diplomat noted that Tehran acted in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter fulfilling its right to self-defense .
`` But if they decide to act militarily Iran will have no other option than to respond . ''
Tensions around Iran flared up after the US launched a strike on Baghdad ’ s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani , the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards ’ elite Quds Force .
On January 8 , Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the United States .
According to the Pentagon ’ s spokesperson , Al-Asad Air Base and the airport of Erbil were targeted .
US President Donald Trump addressed the nation at the White House on Wednesday saying that the US was ready to embrace peace with Iran and was hoping that Tehran would live in harmony with all states around the world .
At the same time , Trump announced that new `` punishing sanctions '' would be imposed on Iran .

THE UNITED NATIONS, January 9. /TASS/. Iran has completed its revenge for the killing of General Qassem Soleimani and won’t take any new military steps if there is no US aggression, Iranian Permanent Representative to the United Nations Majid Takht-Ravanchi has said.
"Our action was proportionate to the assassination of Qassem Soleimani. Our action was completed. So if the Americans do not act militarily against Iran, as far as Iran is concerned we are not going to act in return," Majid Takht-Ravanchi said answering a TASS question on Tehran’s reaction to US President Donald Trump’s statement.
The diplomat noted that Tehran acted in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter fulfilling its right to self-defense. "But if they decide to act militarily Iran will have no other option than to respond."
Tensions around Iran flared up after the US launched a strike on Baghdad’s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ elite Quds Force. On January 8, Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two military facilities in Iraq used by the United States. According to the Pentagon’s spokesperson, Al-Asad Air Base and the airport of Erbil were targeted.
US President Donald Trump addressed the nation at the White House on Wednesday saying that the US was ready to embrace peace with Iran and was hoping that Tehran would live in harmony with all states around the world. At the same time, Trump announced that new "punishing sanctions" would be imposed on Iran.


tass--2020-01-09--Iran not seeking war with US, but will protect itself from aggression - envoy to Russia

MOSCOW , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
Tehran does not want escalation and war with the United States but will counter any aggression against itself , Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali said in an interview with TASS .
`` Iran , in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter , took proportional actions for self-defense and targeted a base from where a coward armed attack was carried out against our country ’ s citizens and high-ranking officials .
We do not want escalation or war but we will protect ourselves against any aggression , '' the diplomat stressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US launched a strike on Baghdad ’ s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani , the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards ’ elite Quds Force .
On January 8 , Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two military facilities in Iraq used by the United States .
According to the Pentagon ’ s spokesperson , Al-Asad Air Base and the airport of Erbil were targeted .
US President Donald Trump addressed the nation at the White House on Wednesday saying that the US was ready to embrace peace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would live in harmony with all states around the world .
At the same time , Trump announced that new `` punishing sanctions '' would be imposed on Iran .

MOSCOW, January 9. /TASS/. Tehran does not want escalation and war with the United States but will counter any aggression against itself, Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali said in an interview with TASS.
"Iran, in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter, took proportional actions for self-defense and targeted a base from where a coward armed attack was carried out against our country’s citizens and high-ranking officials. We do not want escalation or war but we will protect ourselves against any aggression," the diplomat stressed.
Washington bears responsibility for its illegal steps in the Middle East region and their consequences, Kazem Jalali said.
"The US government’s criminal acts are a gross violation of fundamental principles and are contrary to international norms and rules, in particular the principle enshrined in the UN Charter, and the US government is responsible for violations of these norms and rules and their consequences," Kazem Jalali said.
The Iranian ambassador noted that the US actions violated Iraq’s sovereignty and the country’s government complained about this in the UN. "Iran will definitely monitor this terrorist act by the American regime through the UN. In this context, Foreign Minister [Mohammad Javad] Zarif held a conversation and consultations on this issue in the first hours with UN Secretary General [Antonio] Guterres," the diplomat said.
The mere fact of including the country’s military force in the list of terrorist organizations like this was done against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps violates the principles of international law, the UN Charter and the state’s sovereign rights, he noted. "This in no way can become a pretext for a threat or using force against them, in particular on other countries’ territory," Jalali said.
"America’s hypocritical policy runs counter to the country's international counterterrorism obligations, including [the UN] Security Council resolutions, and seriously weakens regional and global efforts on struggling against international terrorism. By this act America is actually waging war on those who are fighting terrorism," he stressed.
The ambassador recalled that over the past years Iran has been making efforts in anti-terror fight, meeting its international commitments and the UN Security Council’s resolution. He emphasized that Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, the head of Iran’s elite Quds Force, played an important role in providing assistance to regional nations in destroying the most dangerous terror groups such as the Islamic State (outlawed in Russia), which were recognized so by the UN Security Council.
Tensions around Iran flared up after the US launched a strike on Baghdad’s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ elite Quds Force. On January 8, Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two military facilities in Iraq used by the United States. According to the Pentagon’s spokesperson, Al-Asad Air Base and the airport of Erbil were targeted.
US President Donald Trump addressed the nation at the White House on Wednesday saying that the US was ready to embrace peace with Iran and was hoping that Tehran would live in harmony with all states around the world. At the same time, Trump announced that new "punishing sanctions" would be imposed on Iran.


tass--2020-01-08--UN lauds Trump’s statement on Iran, views it as step to de-escalation

`` We welcome any statement that shows that there is a step away from escalation and direct confrontation .
So yes , '' he answered a question whether the UN Secretary-General is content with Trump ’ s statement .
UNITED NATIONS , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomes the statement made by US President Donald Trump after Iran launched missile strikes targeting US military facilities in Iraq , spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric told a briefing on Wednesday .
Earlier , Trump addressed the nation at the White House saying that the US is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hoping that Tehran would live in harmony with all states around the world .
At the same time , Trump announced that new `` punishing sanctions '' would be imposed on Iran .
The situation around Iran exacerbated dramatically after the US launched a strike on Baghdad ’ s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani , the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards ’ elite Quds Force .
Tehran vowed to respond harshly .
On January 8 , Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two facilities in Iraq used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the airport of Erbil .

"We welcome any statement that shows that there is a step away from escalation and direct confrontation. So yes," he answered a question whether the UN Secretary-General is content with Trump’s statement.
UNITED NATIONS, January 8. /TASS/. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomes the statement made by US President Donald Trump after Iran launched missile strikes targeting US military facilities in Iraq, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric told a briefing on Wednesday.
Earlier, Trump addressed the nation at the White House saying that the US is ready to embrace peace with Iran and is hoping that Tehran would live in harmony with all states around the world. At the same time, Trump announced that new "punishing sanctions" would be imposed on Iran.
The situation around Iran exacerbated dramatically after the US launched a strike on Baghdad’s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ elite Quds Force. Tehran vowed to respond harshly.
On January 8, Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two facilities in Iraq used by US military - Al-Asad Air Base and the airport of Erbil.


tass--2020-01-08--Putin lauds TurkStream’s high quality, environmental safety

`` The construction of TurkStream used cutting-edge innovative technologies which allowed us to ensure maximum economic efficiency of gas transmission @ @ @ @ @ friendliness of using the pipeline , '' Putin told the official launch ceremony of TurkStream @ @ @ @ @ .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has noted the high standards and ecological sustainability @ @ @ @ @ .
He emphasized the fact that `` construction workers were using the most advanced hardware @ @ @ @ @ new world record of underwater pipe-laying speed - more than six kilometers in a day @ @ @ @ @ who worked on designing and constructing the pipeline .
`` Your utmost professionalism , great @ @ @ @ @ to complete the TurkStream project with great quality and on time , '' the president @ @ @

"The construction of TurkStream used cutting-edge innovative technologies which allowed us to ensure maximum economic efficiency of gas transmission, guarantee safety and environmental friendliness of using the pipeline," Putin told the official launch ceremony of TurkStream.
ISTANBUL, January 8. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin has noted the high standards and ecological sustainability of the TurkStream gas pipeline.
He emphasized the fact that "construction workers were using the most advanced hardware and equipment while setting a new world record of underwater pipe-laying speed - more than six kilometers in a day."
Putin thanked everyone who worked on designing and constructing the pipeline. "Your utmost professionalism, great and dedicated work allowed us to complete the TurkStream project with great quality and on time," the president addressed specialists.


tass--2020-01-08--Trump: US imposes new tough economic sanctions against Iran

`` As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression , the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime .
These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior , '' Trump stressed .
WASHINGTON , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Washington is introducing new additional economic sanctions against Tehran , US President Donald Trump said Wednesday addressing the nation at the White House after Iran launched missile attacks on January 8 targeting two military facilities in Iraq used by the United States .
`` In recent months alone , Iran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fired an unprovoked strike on Saudi Arabia and shot down two US drones , '' he added .
At the same time , Trump claimed that `` Iran ’ s hostilities substantially increased after the foolish Iran nuclear deal was signed . ''
Trump said that US citizens were not injured in the missile strikes launched by Iran targeting military bases in Iraq while the military facilities themselves only sustained minimal damage .
`` No Americans were harmed in last night ’ s attack by the Iranian regime .
We suffered no casualties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and only minimal damage was sustained at our military bases , '' he said .
`` Iran appears to be standing down which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world , '' Trump stressed .
`` No American or Iraqi lives were lost because of the precautions taken , dispersal of forces and an early warning system that worked very well , '' the leader added .
Trump also addressed the North Atlantic Treaty Organization ( NATO ) , asking it to get even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Today , I ’ m going to ask NATO to become much more involved in the Middle East process , '' he said without specifying what exactly he is expecting of NATO .
Trump recalled that in three years of his presidency , the US military expenditure increased significantly .
However , Washington is not looking to flex its military muscle in the Middle East , Trump underscored .
`` The American military has been completely rebuilt under my administration at a cost of 2.5 trillion dollars .
US Armed Forces are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are big , powerful , accurate , lethal and fast .
Under construction are many hypersonic missiles .
The fact that we have this great military and equipment , however , does not mean we have to use it .
We do not want to use it .
American strength , both military and economic , is the best deterrent , '' he underlined .
According to Trump , the US is willing to embrace peace with Iran and is hopeful that Tehran will engage in harmonious relations with all the other countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people and leaders of Iran , we want you to have a future and a great future , one that you deserve .
One of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world .
The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it , '' he underlined .
Trump believes that Russia and other states should abandon the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action ( JCPOA ) on the Iranian nuclear program and draft a new nuclear deal with Tehran to replace it .
The US leader @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down the path of de-escalation .
`` The time has come for the United Kingdom , Germany , France , Russia and China to recognize this reality .
They must now break away from the remnants of the Iran deal or JCPOA .
And we must all work together toward making a deal with Iran that makes the world a safer and more peaceful place , '' he underlined .
`` We must also make a deal that allows Iran to thrive and prosper and take advantage of its enormous untapped potential .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Trump added .
`` The very defective JCPOA expires shortly anyway and gives Iran a clear and quick path to nuclear breakout , '' the US leader believes .
`` Iran must abandon its nuclear ambitions and end its support for terrorism . ''
A diplomatic source in Brussels earlier told TASS that the European Union is fearing that deterioration in Iraq can lead to an ultimate collapse of the JCPOA .

"As we continue to evaluate options in response to Iranian aggression, the United States will immediately impose additional punishing economic sanctions on the Iranian regime. These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior," Trump stressed.
WASHINGTON, January 8. /TASS/. Washington is introducing new additional economic sanctions against Tehran, US President Donald Trump said Wednesday addressing the nation at the White House after Iran launched missile attacks on January 8 targeting two military facilities in Iraq used by the United States.
"In recent months alone, Iran has seized ships in international waters, fired an unprovoked strike on Saudi Arabia and shot down two US drones," he added. At the same time, Trump claimed that "Iran’s hostilities substantially increased after the foolish Iran nuclear deal was signed."
No Americans were harmed
Trump said that US citizens were not injured in the missile strikes launched by Iran targeting military bases in Iraq while the military facilities themselves only sustained minimal damage.
"No Americans were harmed in last night’s attack by the Iranian regime. We suffered no casualties, all of our soldiers are safe and only minimal damage was sustained at our military bases," he said. "Iran appears to be standing down which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," Trump stressed.
"No American or Iraqi lives were lost because of the precautions taken, dispersal of forces and an early warning system that worked very well," the leader added.
More active role of NATO
Trump also addressed the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), asking it to get even more involved in the Middle East.
"Today, I’m going to ask NATO to become much more involved in the Middle East process," he said without specifying what exactly he is expecting of NATO.
Trump recalled that in three years of his presidency, the US military expenditure increased significantly. However, Washington is not looking to flex its military muscle in the Middle East, Trump underscored.
"The American military has been completely rebuilt under my administration at a cost of 2.5 trillion dollars. US Armed Forces are stronger than ever before. Our missiles are big, powerful, accurate, lethal and fast. Under construction are many hypersonic missiles. The fact that we have this great military and equipment, however, does not mean we have to use it. We do not want to use it. American strength, both military and economic, is the best deterrent," he underlined.
Peace with Iran
According to Trump, the US is willing to embrace peace with Iran and is hopeful that Tehran will engage in harmonious relations with all the other countries in the world.
"To the people and leaders of Iran, we want you to have a future and a great future, one that you deserve. One of prosperity at home and harmony with the nations of the world. The United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it," he underlined.
A new nuclear deal
Trump believes that Russia and other states should abandon the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian nuclear program and draft a new nuclear deal with Tehran to replace it.
The US leader announced that Iranian authorities chose to go down the path of de-escalation. "The time has come for the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Russia and China to recognize this reality. They must now break away from the remnants of the Iran deal or JCPOA. And we must all work together toward making a deal with Iran that makes the world a safer and more peaceful place," he underlined.
"We must also make a deal that allows Iran to thrive and prosper and take advantage of its enormous untapped potential. Iran can be a great country," Trump added.
Abandon nuclear ambitions
"The very defective JCPOA expires shortly anyway and gives Iran a clear and quick path to nuclear breakout," the US leader believes. "Iran must abandon its nuclear ambitions and end its support for terrorism."
A diplomatic source in Brussels earlier told TASS that the European Union is fearing that deterioration in Iraq can lead to an ultimate collapse of the JCPOA.


tass--2020-01-08--Putin, Erdogan back settlement in Persian Gulf by peaceful means

ISTANBUL , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian and Turkish Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan have supported resolution @ @ @ @ @ Persian Gulf zone exclusively by peaceful means , Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ leaders .
`` In light of the events of recent days , the presidents expressed @ @ @ @ @ issues in the Persian gulf zone and the region in general exclusively by peaceful means @ @ @ @ @ , '' the Russian minister emphasized .

ISTANBUL, January 8. /TASS/. Russian and Turkish Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan have supported resolution of all conflicts in the Persian Gulf zone exclusively by peaceful means, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Wednesday following talks between the two leaders.
"In light of the events of recent days, the presidents expressed strong support for resolving all issues in the Persian gulf zone and the region in general exclusively by peaceful means in accordance with international law," the Russian minister emphasized.


tass--2020-01-08--UN Secretary-General urges to avoid war in Persian Gulf

`` For his part , the Secretary-General will continue his active engagement with relevant actors , '' he emphasized .
`` It is our common duty to make every effort to avoid a war in the [ Persian ] Gulf that the world can not afford . ''
UNITED NATIONS , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is calling to make every possible effort to avert a war in the Persian Gulf , spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday .
He repeated the call made by him on Monday to all the parties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must not forget the terrible human suffering caused by war .
As always , ordinary people pay the highest price , '' the statement says .
The situation around Iran exacerbated dramatically after the US launched a strike on Baghdad ’ s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani , the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards ’ elite Quds Force .
Tehran vowed to respond harshly .
On January 8 , Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two facilities in Iraq used by US military - Al-Asad Air Base and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump announced that Washington continues to take stock of damage inflicted and promised to deliver a statement on Wednesday .

"For his part, the Secretary-General will continue his active engagement with relevant actors," he emphasized. "It is our common duty to make every effort to avoid a war in the [Persian] Gulf that the world cannot afford."
UNITED NATIONS, January 8. /TASS/. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is calling to make every possible effort to avert a war in the Persian Gulf, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday.
He repeated the call made by him on Monday to all the parties to exercise maximum constraint. "We must not forget the terrible human suffering caused by war. As always, ordinary people pay the highest price," the statement says.
The situation around Iran exacerbated dramatically after the US launched a strike on Baghdad’s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ elite Quds Force. Tehran vowed to respond harshly.
On January 8, Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two facilities in Iraq used by US military - Al-Asad Air Base and the airport of Erbil. US President Donald Trump announced that Washington continues to take stock of damage inflicted and promised to deliver a statement on Wednesday.


tass--2020-01-08--Kremlin says killing of Soleimani is not reason of Merkel’s upcoming visit to Russia

MOSCOW , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
The death of the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards ’ elite Quds @ @ @ @ @ , is not the reason behind the upcoming visit of German Chancellor Angela Merkel to @ @ @ @ @ service reported earlier that the German chancellor is paying a working visit to Russia on @ @ @ @ @ of Russian President Vladimir Putin .
It is planned that the talks will focus on @ @ @ @ @ , including the developments in Syria , Libya and deterioration in the Middle East after @ @ @ @ @ Baghdad airport on January 3 .
The issues surrounding settlement of the domestic Ukrainian conflict @ @ @ @ @ the 2015 Minsk Package of Measures are also expected to be discussed as well as @ @ @ @ @ the Normandy Four summit in Paris on December 9 , 2019 .
The situation around @ @ @ @ @ US launched a strike on Baghdad ’ s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem @ @ @ @ @ the Iranian Revolutionary Guards ’ elite Quds Force .

MOSCOW, January 8. /TASS/. The death of the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ elite Quds Force, General Qasem Soleimani, is not the reason behind the upcoming visit of German Chancellor Angela Merkel to Russia.
The Kremlin press service reported earlier that the German chancellor is paying a working visit to Russia on January 11 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. It is planned that the talks will focus on current issues on international agenda, including the developments in Syria, Libya and deterioration in the Middle East after the US airstrike on the Baghdad airport on January 3.
The issues surrounding settlement of the domestic Ukrainian conflict in the context of implementing the 2015 Minsk Package of Measures are also expected to be discussed as well as implementation of agreements reached at the Normandy Four summit in Paris on December 9, 2019.
The situation around Iran exacerbated dramatically after the US launched a strike on Baghdad’s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ elite Quds Force.


tass--2020-01-08--Erdogan, Putin call for ceasefire in Libya at midnight on January 12

ISTANBUL , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Turkish and Russian Presidents Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Vladimir Putin have urged to @ @ @ @ @ starting from midnight on January 12 , Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told a briefing @ @ @ @ @ Lavrov following an expanded meeting of the two leaders in Istanbul .
`` The talks @ @ @ @ @ on bilateral issues and regional problems .
Opinions were exchanged on a ceasefire in Idlib @ @ @ @ @ the US and developments in Libya and Iraq , '' he stressed .
`` Presidents @ @ @ @ @ for a ceasefire in Libya which should enter into force on January 12 at midnight @ @ @ @ @ minister , the leaders also talked about `` measures to ease tensions in the Middle @ @ @ @ @ relations between the US and Iran . ''

ISTANBUL, January 8. /TASS/. Turkish and Russian Presidents Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Vladimir Putin have urged to establish a ceasefire in Libya starting from midnight on January 12, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told a briefing with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov following an expanded meeting of the two leaders in Istanbul.
"The talks between Erdogan and Putin focused on bilateral issues and regional problems. Opinions were exchanged on a ceasefire in Idlib, tensions between Iran and the US and developments in Libya and Iraq," he stressed. "Presidents Erdogan and Putin have called for a ceasefire in Libya which should enter into force on January 12 at midnight."
According to the minister, the leaders also talked about "measures to ease tensions in the Middle East following the deterioration of relations between the US and Iran."


tass--2020-01-08--Putin says Russia and Turkey will realize many more joint projects in the future

ISTANBUL , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian President Vladimir Putin is certain that Russia and Turkey will implement many @ @ @ @ @ Russian leader is grateful to Turkish authorities for the political will they showed in constructing @ @ @ @ @ `` Of course , I would specifically thank Turkish authorities , the Turkish president for @ @ @ @ @ and licenses necessary for the pipeline construction , < … > for the political will @ @ @ @ @ in realizing projects of national importance that meets national interests of their country , '' @ @ @ @ @ official launch ceremony of the TurkStream pipeline .
`` I am certain that Russia and @ @ @ @ @ mutually beneficial projects in energy and other spheres .
Together we can address the most @ @ @ @ @ the betterment of our countries , our people , our neighbors and partners , '' @ @ @

ISTANBUL, January 8. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin is certain that Russia and Turkey will implement many more joint projects. The Russian leader is grateful to Turkish authorities for the political will they showed in constructing the TurkStream gas pipeline.
"Of course, I would specifically thank Turkish authorities, the Turkish president for timely issuance of all permits and licenses necessary for the pipeline construction, <…> for the political will shown by the Turkish leadership in realizing projects of national importance that meets national interests of their country," the Russian leader told the official launch ceremony of the TurkStream pipeline.
"I am certain that Russia and Turkey will implement many more mutually beneficial projects in energy and other spheres. Together we can address the most complicated and ambitious tasks for the betterment of our countries, our people, our neighbors and partners," Putin underlined.


tass--2020-01-08--Putin and Erdogan open TurkStream gas pipeline

ISTANBUL , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
Russian and Turkish Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan have officially launched the TurkStream gas pipeline .
The official launch ceremony took place at the Halic Congress Center in Istanbul .
The Russian delegation to the ceremony also includes Energy Minister Alexander Novak and CEO of the Russian energy giant Gazprom Alexei Miller who delivered reports before the official launch .
Moreover , the event participants were shown a video presentation of the project .
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov also attended the ceremony .
The TurkStream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lines each capable of transmitting 15.75 billion cubic meters of gas annually .
The first line is intended for the Turkish market , the second branch is going to supply the countries of Southern and Southeastern Europe .
Gazprom considers Greece , Italy , Bulgaria , Serbia and Hungary as potential markets .
Bulgaria began receiving Russian gas via TurkStream already on January 1 , while North Macedonia and Greece started receiving Russian gas on January 5 through the compressor station of Strandja-2 in Bulgaria .
Talks between Bulgartransgaz and the Russian Gazprom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were completed in the last days on 2019 .
Bulgaria will annually receive 2.9 billion cubic meters of gas through the new gas transmission point - Strandja-2 compressor station .
Owing to the fact that the country will not receive gas from Turkey , Sofia will be able to cut down transit expenses by around 35 million euros , while the gas will be cheaper by around 5 %

ISTANBUL, January 8. /TASS/. Russian and Turkish Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan have officially launched the TurkStream gas pipeline. The official launch ceremony took place at the Halic Congress Center in Istanbul.
The Russian delegation to the ceremony also includes Energy Minister Alexander Novak and CEO of the Russian energy giant Gazprom Alexei Miller who delivered reports before the official launch. Moreover, the event participants were shown a video presentation of the project. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borissov also attended the ceremony.
The TurkStream project is a pipeline consisting of two lines each capable of transmitting 15.75 billion cubic meters of gas annually. The first line is intended for the Turkish market, the second branch is going to supply the countries of Southern and Southeastern Europe. Gazprom considers Greece, Italy, Bulgaria, Serbia and Hungary as potential markets.
Bulgaria began receiving Russian gas via TurkStream already on January 1, while North Macedonia and Greece started receiving Russian gas on January 5 through the compressor station of Strandja-2 in Bulgaria.
Talks between Bulgartransgaz and the Russian Gazprom Export company on gas transit through Bulgaria were completed in the last days on 2019. Bulgaria will annually receive 2.9 billion cubic meters of gas through the new gas transmission point - Strandja-2 compressor station. Owing to the fact that the country will not receive gas from Turkey, Sofia will be able to cut down transit expenses by around 35 million euros, while the gas will be cheaper by around 5%


tass--2020-01-08--Reuters: 80 people dead in Iran's missile attack on US bases in Iraq

TASS , January 8 .
80 people were killed in Iran ’ s missile attack on US bases in Iraq , Tasnim agency reported citing a source in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) .
Earlier , CNN said citing sources that the missiles launched by the Iranian side hit the part of the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq were no American troops were stationed .
In addition , it was noted that as a result of a missile strike 104 infrastructure facilities at US military bases were destroyed .
Earlier on Wednesday , Iran delivered missile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in western Iraq , where US troops are deployed , a statement from Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman stated .
The IRGC officially claimed the responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces , which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran , would be subjected to military attacks .
Iran ’ s news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the IRGC as saying that the operation in Iraq was code-named ‘ Martyr Soleimani.
’ The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps ( the elite wing of the Iranian military ) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport .
The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump .
According to the US Administration , the operation was defensive , as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East .
According to Washington , the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact `` severe revenge '' on those involved in the killing of Soleimani , blaming the US for the attack .
In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres , Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US .

TASS, January 8. 80 people were killed in Iran’s missile attack on US bases in Iraq, Tasnim agency reported citing a source in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Earlier, CNN said citing sources that the missiles launched by the Iranian side hit the part of the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq were no American troops were stationed.
In addition, it was noted that as a result of a missile strike 104 infrastructure facilities at US military bases were destroyed.
Earlier on Wednesday, Iran delivered missile strikes against at least two military facilities in western Iraq, where US troops are deployed, a statement from Assistant to the US Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman stated.
The IRGC officially claimed the responsibility for the missile attacks stating that US forces, which are involved in acts of aggression against Iran, would be subjected to military attacks. Iran’s news agency ISNA quoted a statement from the IRGC as saying that the operation in Iraq was code-named ‘Martyr Soleimani.’
The situation in the Middle East deteriorated sharply after the Pentagon announced on January 3 that Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani had been killed in a US airstrike near Baghdad airport. The missile strike came on order of US President Donald Trump.
According to the US Administration, the operation was defensive, as it was aimed at protecting US troops stationed in the Middle East. According to Washington, the attacks planned by the Iranian general could have led to the deaths of hundreds of Americans and Iraqis.
After the attack, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council vowed at an emergency session to exact "severe revenge" on those involved in the killing of Soleimani, blaming the US for the attack. In a telephone call with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the attack as an act of terrorism by the US.


tass--2020-01-08--UN mission: attacks on bases in Iraq violate its sovereignty, lead to deterioration

UNITED NATIONS , January 8 .
/TASS/ .
The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq has said that attacks on @ @ @ @ @ breach the Iraqi sovereignty and has called on all sides to exercise restraint .
`` @ @ @ @ @ and Anbar governorates only escalate conflict , and again violate Iraqi sovereignty .
Senseless violence @ @ @ @ @ call for urgent restraint and a resumption of dialogue .
Iraq should not pay the @ @ @ @ @ '' the mission said via its Twitter account .
The situation around Iran exacerbated dramatically @ @ @ @ @ strike on Baghdad ’ s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani , the @ @ @ @ @ Guards ’ elite Quds Force .
Tehran vowed to respond harshly .
On January 8 @ @ @ @ @ missile strikes on two facilities in Iraq used by US military - Al-Asad Air Base @ @ @ @ @ .
US President Donald Trump announced that Washington continues to take stock of damage inflicted @ @ @ @ @ statement on Wednesday .

UNITED NATIONS, January 8. /TASS/. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq has said that attacks on bases situated in the country breach the Iraqi sovereignty and has called on all sides to exercise restraint.
"Recent missile attacks in Erbil and Anbar governorates only escalate conflict, and again violate Iraqi sovereignty. Senseless violence has predictable effects. We call for urgent restraint and a resumption of dialogue. Iraq should not pay the price for external rivalries," the mission said via its Twitter account.
The situation around Iran exacerbated dramatically after the US launched a strike on Baghdad’s airport on January 3 killing General Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards’ elite Quds Force. Tehran vowed to respond harshly.
On January 8, Iran retaliated by launching missile strikes on two facilities in Iraq used by US military - Al-Asad Air Base and the airport of Erbil. US President Donald Trump announced that Washington continues to take stock of damage inflicted and promised to deliver a statement on Wednesday.


tass--2020-01-09--Pressure on Iran may soar amid speculations about external causes for plane crash — expert

When speaking about the possibility of Iran ’ s strikes on facilities belonging to the US and their allies in the Middle East , the pundit assumed that the United Arab Emirates could become a target MOSCOW , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
Speculations about external causes for Wednesday ’ s Ukraine International Airlines flight crash outside Tehran may ramp up pressure on Iran , Valdai International Discussion Club Program Director Oleg Barabanov told TASS on Thursday .
`` Speculations have it that the Ukrainian aircraft did not crash for technical reasons but as a result of a missile strike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have launched the missile .
If this theory becomes popular , it will lead to a dramatic turn of events and the air crash will gain psychological importance in terms of future pressure on Iran , particularly from the United States , '' the expert pointed out .
When speaking about the possibility of Iran ’ s strikes on facilities belonging to the US and their allies in the Middle East , Barabanov assumed that the United Arab Emirates could become a target .
`` If it happens , the whole region will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If we leave Iraq out , then the nearest US bases are in Qatar and Turkey .
However , Tehran maintains rather constructive relations with the two countries , while Saudi Arabia is Iran ’ s rival in the Islamic world along with its supporter , the UAE , that is in confrontation with Qatar .
There is a proxy war going on between them , first and foremost , in Libya , '' the expert explained .
`` There is a US air base near Abu Dhabi in the UAE .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is likely to become the next target for Iran , '' Barabanov added .
He pointed to rather close cooperation between Qatar and Iran .
`` There were reports that after General Qassem Soleimani ’ s killing , the Qataris contacted the Iranians , probably in order to talk them out of a retaliatory strike on a US base in Qatar , '' he said .
According to the expert , senior Iranian officials stated that if the US conducted another strike on Iran , Washington ’ s allies would suffer , `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not Qatar and Turkey . ''
Tensions in the Middle East escalated following a US drone strike near Baghdad 's airport on January 3 , which killed General Qassem Soleimani , the head of Iran 's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ' Quds Force .
Iran targeted Iraq ’ s Ain Al-Asad air base and a facility in Erbil , which house US troops , in retaliation for the attack .
Following Iran ’ s strikes , US President Donald Trump said in an address to the nation that `` the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the Iranian regime . ''
`` These powerful sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior , '' Trump pointed out , adding , however , that `` the United States is ready to embrace peace with all who seek it . ''
Iran ’ s Ambassador to the United Nations Majid Takht Ravanchi , in turn , told TASS that Tehran believed its response was enough in terms of retaliation , and did not plan to take further military action .
A Ukraine International Airlines flight en route from Tehran to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ January 8 .
According to Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadim Pristaiko , the crash killed 176 people , including citizens of Iran , Canada , Ukraine , Sweden , Afghanistan , Germany and the United Kingdom .

When speaking about the possibility of Iran’s strikes on facilities belonging to the US and their allies in the Middle East, the pundit assumed that the United Arab Emirates could become a target
MOSCOW, January 9. /TASS/. Speculations about external causes for Wednesday’s Ukraine International Airlines flight crash outside Tehran may ramp up pressure on Iran, Valdai International Discussion Club Program Director Oleg Barabanov told TASS on Thursday. "Speculations have it that the Ukrainian aircraft did not crash for technical reasons but as a result of a missile strike, though it is unclear who could have launched the missile. If this theory becomes popular, it will lead to a dramatic turn of events and the air crash will gain psychological importance in terms of future pressure on Iran, particularly from the United States," the expert pointed out.
When speaking about the possibility of Iran’s strikes on facilities belonging to the US and their allies in the Middle East, Barabanov assumed that the United Arab Emirates could become a target. "If it happens, the whole region will explode," he emphasized. "If we leave Iraq out, then the nearest US bases are in Qatar and Turkey. However, Tehran maintains rather constructive relations with the two countries, while Saudi Arabia is Iran’s rival in the Islamic world along with its supporter, the UAE, that is in confrontation with Qatar. There is a proxy war going on between them, first and foremost, in Libya," the expert explained. "There is a US air base near Abu Dhabi in the UAE. That said, not Qatar but the UAE is likely to become the next target for Iran," Barabanov added. He pointed to rather close cooperation between Qatar and Iran. "There were reports that after General Qassem Soleimani’s killing, the Qataris contacted the Iranians, probably in order to talk them out of a retaliatory strike on a US base in Qatar," he said. According to the expert, senior Iranian officials stated that if the US conducted another strike on Iran, Washington’s allies would suffer, "but they named Israel and the Emirates, not Qatar and Turkey." Tensions around Iran


tass--2020-01-09--Raging inferno engulfs Australia as deadly bushfires endanger wildlife

Erdogan says killing of Soleimani should not be left without response Turkish President pointed out that in the latest phone @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump to `` refrain from escalation with Iran ''


tass--2020-01-09--Iran seeking to reinforce nuclear deal, says president

`` Iran is just as Europe seeking to achieve regional stability and reinforce the nuclear deal , '' Rouhani ’ s press service quotes him as saying .
According to the Iranian leader , `` it is vital for Tehran that Europe , China and Russia play an important role in preserving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and protect Iran ’ s interests . ''
TEHRAN , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has indicated that his country is striving to strengthen the nuclear deal , the statement was made in a phone call with Charles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council , on Thursday .
The JCPOA was signed between Iran , the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council ( Russia , the United Kingdom , China , the United States and France ) and Germany in 2015 .
Under the deal , Iran undertook to curb its nuclear activities and place them under total control of the International Atomic Energy Agency ( IAEA ) in exchange of abandonment of the sanctions imposed previously by the United Nations Security Council , the European Union and the United States over its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enrich uranium above the level of 3.67 % for 15 years and maintain enriched uranium stockpiles at the level not exceeding 300 kg , as well as not to build new heavy-water reactors , not to accumulate heavy water and not to develop nuclear explosive devices .
Tensions over Iran ’ s nuclear program exacerbated after Washington unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA on May 8 , 2018 and slapped US economic sanctions on Iran ’ s oil exports .
A year later , Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Tehran was scaling back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and called on other signatories to the deal to comply with the conditions of the agreement within two months .
Since then , Iranian authorities have shed their commitments on a number of occasions .
On January 5 , Iran announced its final step in scaling back on the commitments to the 2015 deal .
Tehran ’ s latest move means that Iran will no longer abide by JCPOA-set limitations on the number of centrifuges required to enrich uranium .

"Iran is just as Europe seeking to achieve regional stability and reinforce the nuclear deal," Rouhani’s press service quotes him as saying. According to the Iranian leader, "it is vital for Tehran that Europe, China and Russia play an important role in preserving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and protect Iran’s interests."
TEHRAN, January 9. /TASS/. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has indicated that his country is striving to strengthen the nuclear deal, the statement was made in a phone call with Charles Michel, the President of the European Council, on Thursday.
The JCPOA was signed between Iran, the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (Russia, the United Kingdom, China, the United States and France) and Germany in 2015. Under the deal, Iran undertook to curb its nuclear activities and place them under total control of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in exchange of abandonment of the sanctions imposed previously by the United Nations Security Council, the European Union and the United States over its nuclear program. Iran pledged not to enrich uranium above the level of 3.67% for 15 years and maintain enriched uranium stockpiles at the level not exceeding 300 kg, as well as not to build new heavy-water reactors, not to accumulate heavy water and not to develop nuclear explosive devices.
Tensions over Iran’s nuclear program exacerbated after Washington unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA on May 8, 2018 and slapped US economic sanctions on Iran’s oil exports. A year later, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Tehran was scaling back some of its commitments under the JCPOA and called on other signatories to the deal to comply with the conditions of the agreement within two months. Since then, Iranian authorities have shed their commitments on a number of occasions.
On January 5, Iran announced its final step in scaling back on the commitments to the 2015 deal. Tehran’s latest move means that Iran will no longer abide by JCPOA-set limitations on the number of centrifuges required to enrich uranium.


tass--2020-01-09--Over 30 kg of amphetamines seized during drug raid in St. Petersburg

MOSCOW , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
The St. Petersburg police have detained seven people suspected of trafficking drugs online , having seized 30 kg of amphetamines during the raid , Russian Interior Ministry Spokeswoman Irina Volk informed TASS on Thursday .
`` 17 simultaneous raids have been conducted within the investigation , seven people have been detained , including the suspected organizer and systems administrator , along with two call center operators and three people who placed drugs in previously agreed locations .
The online shop , which was selling about a kilogram of amphetamines a day , has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We have documented cases of aggressive marketing of the online shop in places of entertainment , night clubs , as well as marketing through sending targeted messages to drug users .
This approach brought in a large number of active customers , who placed up to 200 orders a day for the purchase of the illegal substance .
On the outcomes of the search at the suspects ’ places of residence , over 30 kilograms of amphetamines have been discovered , along with computers , routers , phones , packaging equipment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cards and fake passports .
Several premium-class vehicles have been confiscated in order to ensure the execution of the sentence , '' Volk stated .
The suspects have been charged under Article 228.1 of the Russian Criminal Code ( illegal production , sale or trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances ) .

MOSCOW, January 9. /TASS/. The St. Petersburg police have detained seven people suspected of trafficking drugs online, having seized 30 kg of amphetamines during the raid, Russian Interior Ministry Spokeswoman Irina Volk informed TASS on Thursday.
"17 simultaneous raids have been conducted within the investigation, seven people have been detained, including the suspected organizer and systems administrator, along with two call center operators and three people who placed drugs in previously agreed locations. The online shop, which was selling about a kilogram of amphetamines a day, has been shut down," she said.
"We have documented cases of aggressive marketing of the online shop in places of entertainment, night clubs, as well as marketing through sending targeted messages to drug users. This approach brought in a large number of active customers, who placed up to 200 orders a day for the purchase of the illegal substance. On the outcomes of the search at the suspects’ places of residence, over 30 kilograms of amphetamines have been discovered, along with computers, routers, phones, packaging equipment, bank cards, over 50 SIM cards and fake passports. Several premium-class vehicles have been confiscated in order to ensure the execution of the sentence," Volk stated.
The suspects have been charged under Article 228.1 of the Russian Criminal Code (illegal production, sale or trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances).


tass--2020-01-09--Trump’s bid for new Iran nuke deal unlikely to gain international support, says expert

MOSCOW , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
US President Donald Trump ’ s gamble to urge other countries to abandon @ @ @ @ @ Action ( JCPOA ) on Iran ’ s nuclear program and hammer out a new @ @ @ @ @ support , Ivan Timofeev , Program Director of the Valdai Discussion Club and Director of @ @ @ @ @ Affairs Council ( RIAC ) , told TASS on Thursday .
`` The chances of @ @ @ @ @ Iran , which Washington has been zealously promoting , are slim , '' he noted @ @ @ @ @ is unlikely to enlist the support of other countries for this plan . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ the new US-proposed plan , '' the expert added .

MOSCOW, January 9. /TASS/. US President Donald Trump’s gamble to urge other countries to abandon the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran’s nuclear program and hammer out a new deal will hardly garner their support, Ivan Timofeev, Program Director of the Valdai Discussion Club and Director of Programs at the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), told TASS on Thursday.
"The chances of a new comprehensive deal on Iran, which Washington has been zealously promoting, are slim," he noted. "Besides, it is unlikely to enlist the support of other countries for this plan."
"No one has ever seen the new US-proposed plan," the expert added.


tass--2020-01-09--Fire on board Iranian vessel in Astrakhan sparked by short circuit

ASTRAKHAN , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
A short circuit ignited a fire on board an Iranian vessel , VAFA-2 @ @ @ @ @ the Astrakhan seaport , the press service of the emergencies department for the Astrakhan Region @ @ @ @ @ The fire broke out on board the vessel in the Southern port of Astrakhan on @ @ @ @ @ was loaded with timber , according to the emergencies department .
No one was injured @ @ @ @ @ fire , nor were any goods damaged .
`` A short circuit in the hold @ @ @ @ @ on board the Iranian vessel , '' the press service reported .
The ship underwent @ @ @ @ @ the port told TASS .
The vessel sailed back to Iran in late December .

ASTRAKHAN, January 9. /TASS/. A short circuit ignited a fire on board an Iranian vessel, VAFA-2, in early December in the Astrakhan seaport, the press service of the emergencies department for the Astrakhan Region told TASS on Thursday.
The fire broke out on board the vessel in the Southern port of Astrakhan on December 2. The ship was loaded with timber, according to the emergencies department. No one was injured as a result of the fire, nor were any goods damaged.
"A short circuit in the hold was the cause of fire on board the Iranian vessel," the press service reported.
The ship underwent repairs following the incident, the port told TASS. The vessel sailed back to Iran in late December.


tass--2020-01-09--Naftogaz hails new contract with Gazprom as ‘advantageous’ for Ukraine

KIEV , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
Ukraine is satisfied with the terms of the new gas contract with Gazprom and regards it as the most advantageous in the history of the country ’ s independence , Executive Director of Naftogaz of Ukraine Yury Vitrenko told a press conference on Thursday .
`` The terms of the agreement are advantageous for Ukraine , because for the first time in the history of Ukraine ’ s independence , we have a contract with guarantees of clearly determined reserve capacities , for which they [ Gazprom — TASS ] must pay regardless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Vitrenko explained .
He also added that the Russian company will pay for the reserved capacity , and not for the amount of gas actually received during transit to Europe .
`` Despite the fact that the system was not fully loaded and the volumes were not very significant , Gazprom will pay for all volumes that were reserved , '' Vitrenko said .
Ukraine is not in talks with Russian gas giant Gazprom on direct gas supplies , Executive Director of Naftogaz Yury Vitrenko commented on Thursday .
The gas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be adjusted in case of changes in European law , Vitrenko pointed out .
`` There are no new agreements [ on direct gas supplies from Russia to Ukraine ] or negotiations .
There is no talk on the part of Naftogaz about direct supplies , '' Vitrenko said .
He added that this process is not prohibited by law .
`` But there are no legislative restrictions for all users of the system to come to the operator and reserve capacities , '' he admitted .
`` The contract contains conditions that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules , it should be adjusted to this changed European rules .
This way < … > this contract will continue to fully comply with European rules , '' Vitrenko noted .

KIEV, January 9. /TASS/. Ukraine is satisfied with the terms of the new gas contract with Gazprom and regards it as the most advantageous in the history of the country’s independence, Executive Director of Naftogaz of Ukraine Yury Vitrenko told a press conference on Thursday.
"The terms of the agreement are advantageous for Ukraine, because for the first time in the history of Ukraine’s independence, we have a contract with guarantees of clearly determined reserve capacities, for which they [Gazprom — TASS] must pay regardless of whether they use them or not," Vitrenko explained.
He also added that the Russian company will pay for the reserved capacity, and not for the amount of gas actually received during transit to Europe.
"Despite the fact that the system was not fully loaded and the volumes were not very significant, Gazprom will pay for all volumes that were reserved," Vitrenko said.
Transit contract
Ukraine is not in talks with Russian gas giant Gazprom on direct gas supplies, Executive Director of Naftogaz Yury Vitrenko commented on Thursday.
The gas transit contract between Ukraine and Russia will be adjusted in case of changes in European law, Vitrenko pointed out. "There are no new agreements [on direct gas supplies from Russia to Ukraine] or negotiations. There is no talk on the part of Naftogaz about direct supplies," Vitrenko said.
He added that this process is not prohibited by law. "But there are no legislative restrictions for all users of the system to come to the operator and reserve capacities," he admitted.
"The contract contains conditions that, in case of changes in European rules, it should be adjusted to this changed European rules. This way <…> this contract will continue to fully comply with European rules," Vitrenko noted.


tass--2020-01-09--Press review: Mideast’s fate hinges on US voters and Iran faces fallout from Boeing crash

Izvestia : Middle East ’ s future lies in the hands of Trump voters The United States refrained from using military means to respond to Iran ’ s missile strikes against US bases in Iraq , but it is preparing to impose `` powerful sanctions '' against Tehran , Donald Trump said in his address to the nation .
At the same time , the American leader — apparently recalling the upcoming election campaign — emphasized that as long as he is president , Iran will not be able to get nuclear weapons .
According to Trump , the Islamic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any development of events , and this is a `` good sign . ''
Experts interviewed by Izvestia explained that the further development of the situation in the Middle East would largely depend on the course of the elections in the United States and voters ’ expectations .
Earlier on Wednesday , Iran delivered a missile barrage against at least two military facilities in western Iraq , where US troops are deployed , as a response to the death of Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps ( the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ General Qasem Soleimani in a US airstrike .
According to Vitaly Naumkin , scientific director of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences , with the strike , Iran demonstrated the ability to bypass the US missile defense system , as well as the fact that they know the location of US bases well .
`` If Washington attacks Iran in response to the attack ( even if only control centers are targets ) , this will be the beginning of a major war .
The conflict would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ redrawn , and first and foremost the entire Levant would collapse , '' the expert explained to Izvestia .
According to him , if the US `` endures '' what happened now , further escalation of the conflict can be avoided and negotiations might begin .
Neither Turkey nor Israel , despite close relations with the United States would intervene in the war between the two powers , RIAC Program Director Ivan Timofeev told Izvestia .
In addition , both American society and the White House do not want a war with Iran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foundation for United States Studies at Moscow State University Yuri Rogulev told the newspaper .
`` Trump does not need a big war as far as the election campaign is concerned , as the American presidential race will be held this coming November .
Therefore , I hope that the situation will remain at the level of symbolic accusations , attacks , but will not morph into a full-blown conflict , '' he said .
The situation in the Middle East is hostage to the domestic policy of the US presidential administration , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrei Klimov said .
In his opinion , the future of how the conflict will unfold depends on it .
Kommersant : Air carriers turn away from Iran after Ukrainian jetliner crash The crash of a Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane during take-off from Tehran Imam Khomeini Airport was the largest disaster in the history of Ukrainian aviation .
All passengers and crew were killed in the incident .
The Iranian authorities said that the cause of the tragedy had been an engine fire and the inability of the crew to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other versions were also voiced , Kommersant wrote , including a terrorist attack .
Meanwhile , several countries have decided to suspend or limit civilian flights over Iran and Iraq .
Following in the footsteps of foreign airlines , Russian carriers also changed their flight paths over Persian Gulf airspace .
According to Kommersant , Aeroflot will operate flights to Dubai bypassing Iran from the west through Turkey , Egypt and Saudi Arabia .
However , the Moscow-Tehran route still remains in place .
According to Kommersant ’ s sources in one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a telegram from the State Corporation for the Organization of Air Traffic `` on behalf of the Federal Air Transport Agency '' to review routes in the Persian and Oman Gulfs .
Friendly Avia Support CEO Alexander Lanetsky noted that a one-hour flight by a Boeing 737 and an Airbus A320 jetliner costs about $ 10,000 , while an hour-long flight on an A330 costs about $ 15,000 .
`` Airline losses in the event of a direct ban on flights will be huge , but flight safety should come first , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boris Rybak agreed that performing civilian flights in the face of uncertainty in the Middle East threatens the lives of passengers .
Meanwhile , a possible ban on air traffic will close the Iranian market to Russian tourists , Kommersant wrote .
However , Iran is not very popular : according to the border service , 16,870 Russians visited the country in the first three quarters of 2019 .
By comparison , 4.5 mln Russian tourists visited Turkey over the same period .
Izvestia : TurkStream may become more lucrative than Ukraine ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an example of interaction and cooperation for the benefit of Europeans and the whole world , Presidents of Russia and Turkey Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on January 8 during the project ’ s launch ceremony in Istanbul .
According to experts interviewed by Izvestia , commissioning the new gas pipeline will allow Russia not to depend on Ukrainian transit any longer , and this route of supplies to Europe may ultimately become the most profitable option .
The TurkStream pipeline consists of two lines , each with a capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The first is intended for the supply of Russian gas to Turkish consumers , while the second is set for supplying gas to Southern and Southeastern Europe .
The construction of the offshore section began in May 2017 , and in November 2018 the deep-sea pipe-laying of both lines was completed .
On November 19 , 2019 , both Turkish Stream lines were filled with gas .
Gazprom estimated the price tag for its construction at $ 7 bln .
Senior Analyst at BCS Premier Sergey Suverov believes that this gas pipeline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimum .
When Gazprom makes a decision on investments , it usually focuses on a rate of return of 15 % of the invested capital , an expert told Izvestia .
Vyacheslav Kulagin , department head of the Institute for Energy Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences , told Izvestia that the new pipeline makes it possible to directly supply all the necessary volume of Russian gas to Turkey and not through Ukraine .
`` Soon , we will supply no more than 20-25 % of gas through any export route .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the market flexible , '' Kulagin explained to Izvestia .
According to the newspaper , upon reaching full capacity , it will reduce Ukrainian transit by 31.5 bln cubic meters per year .
Russian oil companies cut off oil supplies to Belarus on January 1 .
They failed to reach a deal with Belarus ’ state energy firm Belneftekhim because of disagreements over the price of raw materials .
Over the past few years , Belarusian refineries have been buying oil on terms comparable with those for Russian independent refineries .
Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them , but the Belarusian side rejected the oil deliveries , Vedomosti wrote .
On January 4 , supplies resumed , but so far , this concerns only one plant .
Belarus was able to get rid of the premium on the price of duty-free oil supplies of $ 10 per tonne of oil .
Thus , the savings can reach about $ 200 mln per year , Fitch ’ s Dmitry Marichenko said .
`` But as the export duty decreases ( it should be zeroed out by 2024 ) , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rise if some additional adjustments are not included in the settlement mechanism , '' he added .
If Belarus decides to get raw materials from other countries , oil will cost $ 70-80 more than oil from Russia , because it will be purchased at the full global price and would have to be transported to Belarus .
This means that oil supplies from Russia at market prices in 2019 turn out to be cheaper for Belarus by at least $ 1.6 bln a year than buying oil on the world market , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belarusian oil refineries have enough oil to continue working with a reduced load during the negotiations , a source close to one of the parties to the negotiations told Vedomosti .
Kommersant : Yandex may launch its own mobile virtual network operator Yandex is exploring the possibility of entering the mobile market with its own virtual operator project ( MVNO ) , two market sources told Kommersant .
In addition to communications , the company may offer access to its other services , including music and video streaming .
Experts interviewed by Kommersant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ profitable , but important for building an ecosystem .
Meanwhile , Yandex itself has not yet confirmed such plans .
According to one of the newspaper ’ s sources , Yandex ’ s MVNO will operate using Tele2 ’ s network .
Another source claimed that Yandex subscribers would be able to switch between operators .
The company will be integrated with Yandex.Plus subscription with unlimited access to music and movies on the company 's platforms , one of the sources said .
Yandex told Kommersant that the company had no plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the newspaper ’ s inside source confirmed that Yandex is negotiating with telecom operators on various projects , explaining that there are no specific agreements yet .
However , Tele2 declined to comment .
The project would be a logical step in the development of Yandex ’ s ecosystem , Alexander Chachava , managing partner at Leta Capital Venture Fund told Kommersant .
The company will be able to sell communication services by entering into partnership agreements with retailers or on online platforms , and if eSIM technology in Russia becomes legal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sell physical SIM cards to Yandex at all , Chachava believes .
TASS is not responsible for the material quoted in these press reviews .

Izvestia: Middle East’s future lies in the hands of Trump voters
The United States refrained from using military means to respond to Iran’s missile strikes against US bases in Iraq, but it is preparing to impose "powerful sanctions" against Tehran, Donald Trump said in his address to the nation. At the same time, the American leader — apparently recalling the upcoming election campaign — emphasized that as long as he is president, Iran will not be able to get nuclear weapons. According to Trump, the Islamic Republic understands that Washington is ready for any development of events, and this is a "good sign." Experts interviewed by Izvestia explained that the further development of the situation in the Middle East would largely depend on the course of the elections in the United States and voters’ expectations. Earlier on Wednesday, Iran delivered a missile barrage against at least two military facilities in western Iraq, where US troops are deployed, as a response to the death of Commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (the elite wing of the Iranian military) General Qasem Soleimani in a US airstrike. According to Vitaly Naumkin, scientific director of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, with the strike, Iran demonstrated the ability to bypass the US missile defense system, as well as the fact that they know the location of US bases well. "If Washington attacks Iran in response to the attack (even if only control centers are targets), this will be the beginning of a major war. The conflict would be protracted and the Middle East would be redrawn, and first and foremost the entire Levant would collapse," the expert explained to Izvestia. According to him, if the US "endures" what happened now, further escalation of the conflict can be avoided and negotiations might begin. Neither Turkey nor Israel, despite close relations with the United States would intervene in the war between the two powers, RIAC Program Director Ivan Timofeev told Izvestia. In addition, both American society and the White House do not want a war with Iran, Director of the US Franklin Roosevelt Foundation for United States Studies at Moscow State University Yuri Rogulev told the newspaper. "Trump does not need a big war as far as the election campaign is concerned, as the American presidential race will be held this coming November. Therefore, I hope that the situation will remain at the level of symbolic accusations, attacks, but will not morph into a full-blown conflict," he said. The situation in the Middle East is hostage to the domestic policy of the US presidential administration, Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council committee Andrei Klimov said. In his opinion, the future of how the conflict will unfold depends on it. Kommersant: Air carriers turn away from Iran after Ukrainian jetliner crash
Read also Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 caught fire in flight — Tehran
The crash of a Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737 plane during take-off from Tehran Imam Khomeini Airport was the largest disaster in the history of Ukrainian aviation. All passengers and crew were killed in the incident. The Iranian authorities said that the cause of the tragedy had been an engine fire and the inability of the crew to take control of the situation. However, other versions were also voiced, Kommersant wrote, including a terrorist attack. Meanwhile, several countries have decided to suspend or limit civilian flights over Iran and Iraq. Following in the footsteps of foreign airlines, Russian carriers also changed their flight paths over Persian Gulf airspace. According to Kommersant, Aeroflot will operate flights to Dubai bypassing Iran from the west through Turkey, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. However, the Moscow-Tehran route still remains in place. According to Kommersant’s sources in one of the major carriers, the airlines received a telegram from the State Corporation for the Organization of Air Traffic "on behalf of the Federal Air Transport Agency" to review routes in the Persian and Oman Gulfs. Friendly Avia Support CEO Alexander Lanetsky noted that a one-hour flight by a Boeing 737 and an Airbus A320 jetliner costs about $10,000, while an hour-long flight on an A330 costs about $15,000. "Airline losses in the event of a direct ban on flights will be huge, but flight safety should come first," the expert noted. Head of Infomost Boris Rybak agreed that performing civilian flights in the face of uncertainty in the Middle East threatens the lives of passengers. Meanwhile, a possible ban on air traffic will close the Iranian market to Russian tourists, Kommersant wrote. However, Iran is not very popular: according to the border service, 16,870 Russians visited the country in the first three quarters of 2019. By comparison, 4.5 mln Russian tourists visited Turkey over the same period. Izvestia: TurkStream may become more lucrative than Ukraine’s gas route
Read also Putin and Erdogan open TurkStream gas pipeline
The TurkStream gas pipeline is an example of interaction and cooperation for the benefit of Europeans and the whole world, Presidents of Russia and Turkey Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on January 8 during the project’s launch ceremony in Istanbul. According to experts interviewed by Izvestia, commissioning the new gas pipeline will allow Russia not to depend on Ukrainian transit any longer, and this route of supplies to Europe may ultimately become the most profitable option. The TurkStream pipeline consists of two lines, each with a capacity of 15.75 bln cubic meters of gas. The first is intended for the supply of Russian gas to Turkish consumers, while the second is set for supplying gas to Southern and Southeastern Europe. The construction of the offshore section began in May 2017, and in November 2018 the deep-sea pipe-laying of both lines was completed. On November 19, 2019, both Turkish Stream lines were filled with gas. Gazprom estimated the price tag for its construction at $7 bln. Senior Analyst at BCS Premier Sergey Suverov believes that this gas pipeline will pay off in five years at minimum. When Gazprom makes a decision on investments, it usually focuses on a rate of return of 15% of the invested capital, an expert told Izvestia. Vyacheslav Kulagin, department head of the Institute for Energy Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, told Izvestia that the new pipeline makes it possible to directly supply all the necessary volume of Russian gas to Turkey and not through Ukraine. "Soon, we will supply no more than 20-25% of gas through any export route. This ensures reliable supplies and makes work on the market flexible," Kulagin explained to Izvestia. According to the newspaper, upon reaching full capacity, it will reduce Ukrainian transit by 31.5 bln cubic meters per year. Vedomosti: Moscow, Minsk tangle over price of Russian oil
Read also Supply of Russian oil to Belarusian refineries renewed
Russian oil companies cut off oil supplies to Belarus on January 1. They failed to reach a deal with Belarus’ state energy firm Belneftekhim because of disagreements over the price of raw materials. Over the past few years, Belarusian refineries have been buying oil on terms comparable with those for Russian independent refineries. Russian companies proposed maintaining these conditions without exacerbating them, but the Belarusian side rejected the oil deliveries, Vedomosti wrote. On January 4, supplies resumed, but so far, this concerns only one plant. Belarus was able to get rid of the premium on the price of duty-free oil supplies of $10 per tonne of oil. Thus, the savings can reach about $200 mln per year, Fitch’s Dmitry Marichenko said. "But as the export duty decreases (it should be zeroed out by 2024), the price Minsk pays for Russian oil will rise if some additional adjustments are not included in the settlement mechanism," he added. If Belarus decides to get raw materials from other countries, oil will cost $70-80 more than oil from Russia, because it will be purchased at the full global price and would have to be transported to Belarus. This means that oil supplies from Russia at market prices in 2019 turn out to be cheaper for Belarus by at least $1.6 bln a year than buying oil on the world market, a source told Vedomosti. Meanwhile, Belarusian oil refineries have enough oil to continue working with a reduced load during the negotiations, a source close to one of the parties to the negotiations told Vedomosti. Kommersant: Yandex may launch its own mobile virtual network operator


tass--2020-01-09--US proposal for cooperation makes no sense as long as sanctions remain — Iran’s envoy

Iran will not be misled by the US president giving offer of cooperation when he has imposed unprecedented sanctions , Ravanchi told the Iranian news agency IRNA in an interview .
TEHRAN , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
US proposal for cooperation with Iran will make no sense as long as US sanctions against Tehran stay in effect , Iran 's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN Majid Takht Ravanchi said on Thursday .
After the pullout from the nuclear deal the US has imposed numerous sanctions against Iran , thus exerting serious pressure on the Iranians ’ lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented '' Washington ’ s sanctions as `` economic terrorism , '' running counter to international law .
Ravanchi recalled that the US government several days ago committed an act of terrorism by killing General Qasem Soleimani , thus starting a new chapter of hostility against the Iranian people .
US President Donald Trump made a TV address to the nation from the White House on Wednesday following Iran ’ s strike against the facilities the US military uses in Iraq .
He professed commitment to peace with Tehran and urged the Iranian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against the terrorist group Islamic State ( outlawed in Russia ) , which he described as Iran ’ s `` natural enemy . ''
At the same time Trump declared Washington ’ s intention to `` immediately impose additional punishing sanctions on the Iranian regime . ''
He warned that the `` sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior . ''

Iran will not be misled by the US president giving offer of cooperation when he has imposed unprecedented sanctions, Ravanchi told the Iranian news agency IRNA in an interview.
TEHRAN, January 9. /TASS/. US proposal for cooperation with Iran will make no sense as long as US sanctions against Tehran stay in effect, Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN Majid Takht Ravanchi said on Thursday.
After the pullout from the nuclear deal the US has imposed numerous sanctions against Iran, thus exerting serious pressure on the Iranians’ lives, Ravanchi noted.
He described "unprecedented" Washington’s sanctions as "economic terrorism," running counter to international law.
Ravanchi recalled that the US government several days ago committed an act of terrorism by killing General Qasem Soleimani, thus starting a new chapter of hostility against the Iranian people.
US President Donald Trump made a TV address to the nation from the White House on Wednesday following Iran’s strike against the facilities the US military uses in Iraq. He professed commitment to peace with Tehran and urged the Iranian side to cooperate in the joint struggle against the terrorist group Islamic State (outlawed in Russia), which he described as Iran’s "natural enemy."
At the same time Trump declared Washington’s intention to "immediately impose additional punishing sanctions on the Iranian regime." He warned that the "sanctions will remain until Iran changes its behavior."


tass--2020-01-09--Bomb threats prompt evacuation of schools, courts in Moscow, St. Petersburg

MOSCOW , January 9 .
/TASS/ .
Moscow ’ s Basmanny District Court had to be evacuated due to a @ @ @ @ @ source told TASS on Thursday .
`` The Basmanny District Court was evacuated following an @ @ @ @ @ the source said .

MOSCOW, January 9. /TASS/. Moscow’s Basmanny District Court had to be evacuated due to a bomb threat, an emergency source told TASS on Thursday.
"The Basmanny District Court was evacuated following an anonymous bomb call," the source said.