AFP: Russia appears to have a “schizophrenic” approach to Iran, viewing Tehran as a security threat while pursuing commercial deals with the country, US Defense Secretary Robert Gates said on Thursday.
Russia ‘schizophrenic’ on Iran: US defense chief
Russia disappointed by US, EU move on Iran: official
AFP: Russia is disappointed by new US and EU unilateral measures against Iran, deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov said Thursday, warning the moves could affect cooperation in the nuclear crisis.
EU leaders sanction Iranian oil and gas sector
Reuters: European Union leaders agreed tighter sanctions against Iran on Thursday, including measures to block investment in the oil and gas sector and curtail refining and natural gas capability.
EU set to approve new sanctions on Iran
AP: EU leaders are set to adopt a new set of sanctions against Iran in a fresh effort to stall its disputed nuclear program.
U.S. imposes new penalties on Iran
New York Times: The Obama administration, seeking to build on the momentum of the Iran resolution passed last week by the United Nations, announced Wednesday that it had imposed sanctions on more than a dozen Iranian companies and individuals with links to the country’s nuclear and missile programs.
Top cleric seen tipping Iraq’s political balance
AP: Iraqis hoping for a secular, nonsectarian government are worried about signs that the country’s most revered Shiite cleric has stepped into the postelection fray with moves that appear aligned with Iran’s own ambitions in Iraq.
Iran rejects West’s criticism over human rights
AP: Iran’s foreign ministry has rejected Western nations’ criticism of its human rights record, calling it unrealistic and politically motivated.
Black-market gas shelters Iran
Wall Street Journal: Proposed U.S. sanctions aimed at starving Iran of foreign gasoline could be signed into law before the end of June, but a shadowy network of Middle East gasoline suppliers is already undermining U.S. efforts to pile pressure on Tehran.
Iran tests Iraqi resolve at the border
New York Times: This remote village high in the rugged mountains along the border with Iran has been deserted, its people having fled Iranian air and artillery bombardments with everything they could carry and whatever livestock that could be coaxed down the steep mountain trails.
Families of 3 jailed Americans criticize Iran
AP: The mothers of three Americans jailed in Iran for nearly a year are demanding the immediate release or trial of their children, saying the Iranian government is using them as pawns in a standoff with the U.S.
