Washington says it is open to direct negotiations, but scenario unlikely; Tehran continues to insist US must remove sanctions before it stops breaching the accord

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State Department downplays significance of 25-year deal between nations that could lessen American influence, says has 'narrow tactical alignment' with China on nuclear issue

Report by activists says Islamic Republic using death penalty less in recent years, but still leads world in per capita executions, usually after torture

NSC advises caution following bombing at New Delhi embassy, names recent Gulf partners UAE and Bahrain among countries risky for Israelis

Beijing to invest $400 billion in Iran in exchange for oil, report says; agreement will strengthen military ties and may undermine US leverage in Middle East

Top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi arrives in Tehran to ink deal that will include investments in energy and infrastructure; final details not announced yet

In Iraq and Yemen, over its nuclear program and more, Tehran has evidently taken a decision to flex its muscles

Lawmakers urge president to use 'full force' to achieve deal with Tehran that would limit its missile program, destabilizing activities and nuclear weapons program

None hurt on container ship Lori as vessel continues on its way to India; incident latest in series of alleged Iranian and Israeli strikes on ships