WATCH PRESS TV NEWS HEADLINES

Here is a brief look at Press TV Newsroom's headlines from 0900 GMT to 1700 GMT, January 7, 2019.

Iran defense strategy

Iran’s defense minister says the country’s defense strategy is based on active deterrence and it’s not looking for military competition in the region. Major General Amir Hatami added that Iran does not seek to maintain military balance with any nation in the region as well. The defense minister also described regional countries as the real victors of the current situation, in which the West can no longer play a role in establishing security. He said Iran will help the Syrian government and people as long as necessary. Hatami also noted that Tehran is ready to help other regional countries in their fight against terrorism.

Palestinian prisoners plight

Israel has announced a set of punitive measures against Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Palestinians say the new measures, which include restrictions on family visits, violate international law.

Brexit uncertainty

The British premier says she will seek more assurances from the EU over the UK parliament’s concerns over her Brexit deal. May made the remarks during her speech on Britain’s National Health Service. She added, an orderly Brexit will guarantee better health services for Britons as it saves London from sending millions of euros to the EU. Meanwhile, the European Commission has once again ruled out the possibility of renegotiating a Brexit accord. A spokesman for the European Commission said there are no talks planned between the two sides as negotiations are already complete. UK Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to put it to a vote next week at parliament. Her Brexit deal is facing stiff resistance from the opposition Labour Party and even some lawmakers within her own Conservative Party.

Gabon coup attempt

Gabon’s government says it has taken control of the situation after a group of soldiers seized the state radio station in a military coup attempt. The government says four of the five soldiers are now in custody. The other one is still at large. Early on Monday, the soldiers said the military had seized control of the government to restore democracy. They called on people to rise up against President Ali Bongo who is now in Morocco for medical treatment. The soldiers argued that Bongo’s health problems have cast doubts on his abilities to carry out his responsibilities. Gabon’s president went to Saudi Arabia in October, after suffering a stroke. A month later, he went to Morocco to continue treatment.

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