Iran
US opts not to sanction Iran’s Chabahar port after Indian, Afghan pressure
New Delhi is developing facility to open up trade corridor that bypasses Pakistan. Project will open gateways into Central Asia via Afghanistan and Turkmenistan.
Erdogan: Turkey will “absolutely not” abide by US sanctions imposed on Iran
Russia calls measures illegitimate, while EU makes frustratingly slow progress in creating SPV to shield trade with the Iranians.
Turkish markets rally after US confirms sanctions waiver on Iranian oil imports
Stock market, Turkish lira, bonds and Halkbank all have a good day.
SWIFT suspends Iranian banks’ use of interbank transfer network
Move intensifies fears that hardline US sanctions regime could lead to food and medicine shortages in Iran.
Iran in “war situation” says Rouhani as heavy US sanctions kick in
As state TV airs pictures of military manoeuvres, president vows to confront “bullying enemy” and overcome economic attack.
IRAN BLOG: Bully boy Trump mocks Iranians with ‘GoT’ economic winter meme
No exceptions made for shipments of basic foods and medicines in big sanctions announcement. LOL?
US reportedly agrees outline waivers on Iranian oil embargo
White House National Security Advisor John Bolton adds to speculation that policy will be softened by saying: "We want… maximum pressure, but we don't want to harm friends."
Iran’s Zarif attacks “law-breaking country” US
After meeting with Turkish, Azerbaijani counterparts ahead of upcoming oil sanctions, foreign minister warns of “severe consequences for the world order”.
US uber-hawk Bolton presses Armenia on Iran sanctions
During Yerevan visit, White House national security advisor also addresses Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and potential for selling Armenians American arms.
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Queue lengthens for US waivers on sanctions applied to Iran's oil exports
Top Turkish refiner requests exemption with around two weeks remaining until Trump’s attempted worldwide embargo on Iranian energy exports activates.
US hitting bank vital to Iran’s food and medicine imports claims foreign minister Zarif
Trump administration accused of showing “utter disregard” for "human rights of an entire people" with its sanctions policy.
ALACO DISPATCHES: Stability in Iraq undermined by US sanctions attack on Iran
Unless they can negotiate exemptions, the Iraqis are likely to suffer collateral damage.
Oil smuggling prospect opens up as Iran reactivates crude bourse
Barrels sold on the exchange to private middle-men could end up in the hands of smugglers with invisible activities.