AFP: The US Navy said Tuesday it had stepped up vigilance following Iran’s recent seizure of 15 British marines and sailors for allegedly entering Iranian waters.

AP: Iranian authorities detained a French academic and have barred him from leaving the country since January, the French Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.

AFP: French energy group Total denied on Tuesday that it had been summoned by the US Securities Exchange and the US Department of Justice to explain the group’s activities in Iran.

Iran Focus: Tehran, Iran, Apr. 04 – Iran’s hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad blasted on Wednesday the United Nations Security Council for failing to prevent the United States-led invasion of Iraq.

The Guardian
· Both sides want an early resolution, says Blair
· UK delegation ready to fly out to gain breakthrough

ABC News: A Pakistani tribal militant group responsible for a series of deadly guerrilla raids inside Iran has been secretly encouraged and advised by American officials since 2005, U.S. and Pakistani intelligence sources tell ABC News.

Reuters: A senior Iranian official said on Wednesday Britain was taking “appropriate action” to end the row over Tehran’s detention of 15 British military personnel, emphasizing a softer diplomatic approach to the crisis.

Iran Focus: London, Apr. 04 – British Prime Minister Tony Blair is committed to a diplomatic solution to Britain’s standoff with Iran over the arrest of 15 British navy personnel by Iranian forces, according to a statement issued by Downing Street late Tuesday.