UPI: When six world powers met with Iranian officials last week for the first time in 15 months, the talks were hailed in Europe as the first step toward a “negotiated solution” over fears of Tehran’s nuclear program.
The most potent answer to Tehran
Iranian diplomat accused of Brazil child molestation
BBC: Brazil says it will seek an explanation from Iran after an Iranian diplomat was accused of molesting underage girls at a swimming pool in Brasilia.
Russia, China seek info on US drone held by Iran
AP: Iran’s semiofficial Fars news agency says Russia and China have asked Tehran to provide them with information on a U.S. drone captured by the Islamic Republic in December.
Iran open for IAEA talks, no word on Parchin – diplomats
Reuters: Iran says it is ready to resume talks with the U.N. nuclear watchdog two months after their last meeting ended in failure, but still appears to be stonewalling a request for access to a key military site, Western diplomats said on Thursday.
Iran plans to raise crude output to 5.1 million barrels a day
Bloomberg: Iran plans to increase crude production to 5.1 million barrels a day “in the coming years,” according to the oil ministry’s website.
Japan is asked to insure Iran oil shipments as EU sanctions bite
Bloomberg: Japan’s government may insure tankers carrying Iranian oil, joining China and India in responding to European sanctions blocking private providers.
Iran turns nuclear tables on West
UPI: Certain countries are in violation of international nuclear treaties because of their persistent threats, a spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry said.
CNN Poll: Iran a bigger threat to U.S. than North Korea
CNN: The CNN/ORC International Poll released Wednesday showed 81% view Iran as a very serious or moderate threat to the U.S. Three quarters of Americans said North Korea represents a similar threat.
Iran army ready for action on disputed Gulf island
AP: Iran’s ground forces commander is warning that should diplomacy fail, the military is ready for action over a disputed Gulf island controlled by Iran but also claimed by the United Arab Emirates.
In Iran talks, a glimmer of hope, and reason to proceed cautiously
Boston Globe: The one-day talks between Iran, the United States, and five other world powers last week gave a glimmer of hope that the impasse over Iran’s nuclear program might be solved through diplomatic rather than military means.
