The epicenter of the pandemic in the Middle East, Iran has reported a total of almost 1.9 million cases and 62,569 deaths.

Decision marks the first time since 2013 that travel bans and asset freezes have been enacted. On March 9, UN special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran presented a report documenting Iran's high death penalty rate, executions of juveniles, use of torture, and child marriage.  

"Iron Dome will be with us for many years to come. We are constantly looking ahead, expanding and improving in the face of the threats evolving in the sector," says the head of the Defense Ministry's apparatus overseeing the development of missile defenses.

Commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps says Iran is "indifferent to US sanctions and has chosen the path of sovereignty."