Iran says economy cannot be shut down despite worsening virus outbreak

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani called on Saturday for big gatherings such as weddings and wakes to be banned to stem a rise in coronavirus infections, but insisted that its sanctions-hit economy had to stay open.

Iran must continue economic, social and cultural activities while observing health protocols, Rouhani said during a televised virus taskforce meeting.

It was not possible to keep businesses and economic activities shut down in the long-term, he said, emphasizing that "the people will not accept this".

Shortly after Rouhani's televised speech, a police official in Tehran announced the closure of all wedding and mourning venues in the capital until further notice.

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