Iran closes down schools, universities as coronavirus death toll risesMarch 5, 2020 - 18:24 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Iran closed down schools and universities on Thursday, March 5 for a month to prevent a further spread of the new coronavirus disease, as the death toll from the virus continues to rise across the country, the Middle East Eye reports. Iranian authorities, however, have ruled out quarantining the city of Qom, which has become the epicentre for the virus in the Middle East. "People should not consider this as an opportunity to go travelling. They should stay at home and take our warnings seriously," said Iranian Health Minister Saeed Namaki. Namaki said that the number of diagnosed cases for the coronavirus had reached 3,513, with the death toll rising to 107. Earlier, the minister said all schools and universities will be closed until the end of the Iranian calendar year on March 20. Iran has reported a higher deaths-to-infections ratio when compared to other countries, sparking fears that the number of people infected may be higher than current figures show. Several MPs and top officials have been infected by the virus, with a senior adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dying from the illness. Photo. Reuters Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |