Hawks win concession from White House after Republican lawmakers threaten to scuttle nomination of State Department official

In 4 different speeches over the past few months -- on one occasion twice in the same day -- US president has told contradicting versions of the same tale

Rouhani-Abe meeting reportedly set for later this month; Tehran and Tokyo have traditionally had friendly relations

Tehran dismisses idea that weekend exchange resulted from negotiations between the countries; says talks can only start within framework of nuclear deal after US lifts sanctions

Assistant head of country's Atomic Energy Organization says '50 new achievements' will be revealed next year

As Tehran resumes nuclear development, nations have threatened to bring case before UN Security Council and potentially initiate 'snapback' of sanctions

Meeting comes as European parties to pact weigh triggering mechanism that could lead to reimposition of sanctions over Iranian violations

Rejecting complaint from France, Britain and Germany, the Islamic Republic says it is 'determined to resolutely continue its activities'

NY Times quotes US officials saying the missiles also threaten Saudi Arabia and American troops stationed in area, and are part of Tehran's efforts to project power in Middle East

After UK, France, and Germany warn UN chief about Iranian delivery systems, foreign minister says now is 'decisive moment'; Gantz calls for increased sanctions on Tehran regime