President Donald Trump's national security adviser says the administration is putting Iran "on notice" after it tested a ballistic missile.

Michael Flynn told reporters Wednesday that the Trump administration "condemns such actions by Iran that undermine security, prosperity and stability throughout and beyond the Middle East that puts American lives at risk."

He says "Iran is now feeling emboldened," criticizing the Obama administration for failing "to respond adequately."

Flynn says that "we are officially putting Iran on notice," although it's not clear what he meant.

A defense official said this week that the missile test ended with a "failed" re-entry into the earth's atmosphere.

The official had no other details, including the type of missile. The official was not authorized to discuss the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Washington - February 1, 2017

1. Flynn at podium

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Gen. Michael Flynn, National Security Advisor

"Recent Iranian actions involving a provocative ballistic missile launch and an attack against a Saudi naval vessel conducted by Iran-supported Houthi militants underscore what should have been clear to the international community all along about Iran's destabilizing behavior across the entire Middle East. The recent ballistic missile launch is also in defiance of U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231 which calls upon Iran not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of launching nuclear weapons, including launches such ballistic missile technology. These are just the latest of a series of incidents in the past six months in which Houthi forces which Iran has trained and armed have struck Emirati and Saudi vessels and threatened United States and allied vessels transiting the Red Sea. In these and other similar activities Iran continues to threaten U.S. friends and allies in the region. The Obama administration failed to respond adequately to Iran's maligned actions, including weapons transfers, support for terrorism and other violations of international norms. The Trump administration condemns such actions by Iran that undermine security, prosperity and stability throughout and beyond the Middle East which places American lives at risk. President Trump has severely criticized the various agreements reached between Iran and the Obama administration as well as the United Nations as being weak and ineffective. Instead of being thankful to the United States in these agreements, Iran is now feeling emboldened. As of today, we are officially putting Iran on notice. Thank you."

3. Flynn exits

President Donald Trump's national security adviser says the administration is putting Iran "on notice" after it tested a ballistic missile.

Michael Flynn told reporters Wednesday that the Trump administration "condemns such actions by Iran that undermine security, prosperity and stability throughout and beyond the Middle East that puts American lives at risk."

He says "Iran is now feeling emboldened," criticizing the Obama administration for failing "to respond adequately."

Flynn says that "we are officially putting Iran on notice," although it's not clear what he meant.

A defense official said this week that the missile test ended with a "failed" re-entry into the earth's atmosphere.

The official had no other details, including the type of missile. The official was not authorized to discuss the matter and spoke on condition of anonymity.

Washington - February 1, 2017

1. Flynn at podium

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Gen. Michael Flynn, National Security Advisor

"Recent Iranian actions involving a provocative ballistic missile launch and an attack against a Saudi naval vessel conducted by Iran-supported Houthi militants underscore what should have been clear to the international community all along about Iran's destabilizing behavior across the entire Middle East. The recent ballistic missile launch is also in defiance of U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231 which calls upon Iran not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of launching nuclear weapons, including launches such ballistic missile technology. These are just the latest of a series of incidents in the past six months in which Houthi forces which Iran has trained and armed have struck Emirati and Saudi vessels and threatened United States and allied vessels transiting the Red Sea. In these and other similar activities Iran continues to threaten U.S. friends and allies in the region. The Obama administration failed to respond adequately to Iran's maligned actions, including weapons transfers, support for terrorism and other violations of international norms. The Trump administration condemns such actions by Iran that undermine security, prosperity and stability throughout and beyond the Middle East which places American lives at risk. President Trump has severely criticized the various agreements reached between Iran and the Obama administration as well as the United Nations as being weak and ineffective. Instead of being thankful to the United States in these agreements, Iran is now feeling emboldened. As of today, we are officially putting Iran on notice. Thank you."

3. Flynn exits

FOR CLEAN VERSION SEE STORY NUMBER: apus067254

After a meeting with President-elect Donald Trump, Mitt Romney said he is looking forward to Trump's administration.

Romney met with Trump at a golf course in New Jersey on Saturday.

The 2012 Republican presidential nominee was an outspoken critic of Trump during the election, calling him a "con man" and a "fraud." But the two have started to make amends since the election. Romney called Trump to congratulate him after his win.

POOL

Bedminster, New Jersey - 19 November 2016

++CONTINUOUS SHOT++

1. President-elect Donald Trump and 2012 Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney walking out and shaking hands after meeting

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Mitt Romney, 2012 Republican presidential candidate:

"We had a far-reaching conversation with regards to the various theatres in the world where there are interests of the United States of real significance. We discussed those areas and exchanged our views on those topics. Very thorough and in-depth discussion in the time we had. And, I appreciate the chance to speak with the President-elect, and look forward to the coming administration and the things they are doing. Thank you."

3. Romney walking to car, car driving off

After a meeting with President-elect Donald Trump, Mitt Romney said he is looking forward to Trump's administration.

Romney met with Trump at a golf course in New Jersey on Saturday.

The 2012 Republican presidential nominee was an outspoken critic of Trump during the election, calling him a "con man" and a "fraud." But the two have started to make amends since the election. Romney called Trump to congratulate him after his win.

POOL

Bedminster, New Jersey - 19 November 2016

++CONTINUOUS SHOT++

1. President-elect Donald Trump and 2012 Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney walking out and shaking hands after meeting

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Mitt Romney, 2012 Republican presidential candidate:

"We had a far-reaching conversation with regards to the various theatres in the world where there are interests of the United States of real significance. We discussed those areas and exchanged our views on those topics. Very thorough and in-depth discussion in the time we had. And, I appreciate the chance to speak with the President-elect, and look forward to the coming administration and the things they are doing. Thank you."

3. Romney walking to car, car driving off

The Trump administration is applauding the January jobs reports.

This comes as the President signs executive order taking aim at Dodd-Frank financial overhaul.

Last month's jobs report, which showed the U.S. economy adding 227,000 jobs and the unemployment rate at 4.8 percent.

The report also says that more Americans started looking for work, although not all of them found jobs immediately.

"Today's report reflects the consumer confidence that the Trump presidency has inspired," said White House press secretay Sean Spicer.

"President Trump campaigned on how to make America work again. Even before he took office, the markets knew he would deliver on that promise."

President Donald Trump also signed an executive order that will direct the Treasury secretary to review the 2010 Dodd-Frank financial overhaul.

It's Trump's first step at scaling back regulations on financial services.

Trump has called the law a "disaster" and said it failed to address some of the causes of the 2008-2009 financial crisis.

Washington DC - 3 February 2017

1. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The economy added more than 227,000 new jobs, significantly more than the 175,000 that had been expected. Today's report reflects the consumer confidence that the Trump presidency has inspired. According to a recent Gallup poll, economic confidence is at a new high and ADP showed strong private sector hiring. President Trump campaigned on how to make America work again. Even before he took office, the markets knew he would deliver on that promise."

++SEPARATED BY WHITE FLASH+++

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The president's already taken significant steps to turn our economy around and he is looking forward to ensuring that every American who wants a job has the opportunity to find one. While the president's definitely pleased that the job growth has far surpassed expectations and that the labor force participation is rising, he also recognizes that there is a lot more work to be done."

++SEPARATED BY WHITE FLASH+++

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The Dodd-Frank Act is a disastrous policy that's hindering our markets, reducing the availability of credit and crippling our economy's ability to grow and create jobs. It imposed hundreds of new regulations and financial -- on financial institutions, while establishing unaccountable and unconstitutional new agency that does not adequately protect consumers. Perhaps worst of all, despite all of this overreaching, Dodd-Frank did not address the causes of the financial crisis, something we all know must be done. It did not solve the too big to fail and we must determine conclusively that the failure of a large bank will never again leave taxpayers on the hook."

The Trump administration is applauding the January jobs reports.

This comes as the President signs executive order taking aim at Dodd-Frank financial overhaul.

Last month's jobs report, which showed the U.S. economy adding 227,000 jobs and the unemployment rate at 4.8 percent.

The report also says that more Americans started looking for work, although not all of them found jobs immediately.

"Today's report reflects the consumer confidence that the Trump presidency has inspired," said White House press secretay Sean Spicer.

"President Trump campaigned on how to make America work again. Even before he took office, the markets knew he would deliver on that promise."

President Donald Trump also signed an executive order that will direct the Treasury secretary to review the 2010 Dodd-Frank financial overhaul.

It's Trump's first step at scaling back regulations on financial services.

Trump has called the law a "disaster" and said it failed to address some of the causes of the 2008-2009 financial crisis.

Washington DC - 3 February 2017

1. Cutaway of White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer walking in to press briefing

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The economy added more than 227,000 new jobs, significantly more than the 175,000 that had been expected. Today's report reflects the consumer confidence that the Trump presidency has inspired. According to a recent Gallup poll, economic confidence is at a new high and ADP showed strong private sector hiring. President Trump campaigned on how to make America work again. Even before he took office, the markets knew he would deliver on that promise."

3. Cutaway

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The president's already taken significant steps to turn our economy around and he is looking forward to ensuring that every American who wants a job has the opportunity to find one. While the president's definitely pleased that the job growth has far surpassed expectations and that the labor force participation is rising, he also recognizes that there is a lot more work to be done."

5. Cutaway

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The Dodd-Frank Act is a disastrous policy that's hindering our markets, reducing the availability of credit and crippling our economy's ability to grow and create jobs. It imposed hundreds of new regulations and financial -- on financial institutions, while establishing unaccountable and unconstitutional new agency that does not adequately protect consumers. Perhaps worst of all, despite all of this overreaching, Dodd-Frank did not address the causes of the financial crisis, something we all know must be done. It did not solve the too big to fail and we must determine conclusively that the failure of a large bank will never again leave taxpayers on the hook."

7. Cutaway

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"They did have a very productive and candid conversation. We have tremendous amount of respect for the people of Australia, for Prime Minister Trunbull and a followup on the call, but we are going to continue to work through this. We are going to honor the commitments that we made in some way, meaning that we are going to vet these people in accordance with the agreement that happened and we are going to continue to have further updates as we do."

9. Cutaway

10. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The President is commited to peace, that's his goal and I think when the President and Prime Minister meet here on the 15th that obviously be the topic at that. At the end of the day the goal is peace. I think that is what you have to keep in mind, I think that is going to be a subject that they discuss when they meet on the 15th and that's as far as I want to go on that."

11. Cutaway

12. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"I think the statement is very clear about that, we don't think the existence of current settlements is an impedement to peace, but I think the construction or expansion of existing settlements beyond the borders is not going to be helpful moving forward."

13. Spicer leaving briefing

US Vice President-elect Mike Pence claimed a governing mandate for the Trump administration, calling on conservative activists to help the incoming White House pass an ambitiously conservative agenda.

Pence made little reference to still-simmering national divides in his address at a Tuesday night event honouring top donors to the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank that's working closely with Donald Trump's transition effort.

Pence spoke in the "presidential ballroom" of Trump's Washington, DC, hotel.

US POOL

Washington - 6 December 2016

++SOUNDBITES SEPARATED BY BLACK FRAMES++

1. US Vice President-elect Mike Pence walking to stage

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pence, Vice President-elect:

"For America to be prosperous, for America to be strong, America must be safe. It was Ronald Regan who taught us that peace comes through strength and yet it would be in recent years, despite the ongoing admonition from the Heritage Foundation about its central mission of a commitment to a national defence, the reality is today that this administration and in so many ways for even longer we've walked away from our commitment to be that arsenal of democracy in the world."

++BLACK FRAMES++

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pence, Vice President-elect:

"I want to promise you we're going to roll our sleeves up and in the first 100 days we're going to pass a military supplemental, we're going to rebuild our military, we're going to restore the arsenal of democracy, we're going to give soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and the coast guard the resources and training they need to protect our nation and they are going to hunt down and destroy ISIS (Islamic State group) at its source so it can no longer threaten our people or inspire violence in the homeland."

++BLACK FRAMES++

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pence, Vice President-elect:

"I want to thank the Heritage Foundation and other great conservative organisations like the Federalist Society that have weighed in. It is a list that legal scholars and conservative thought leaders have called a gold mine of conservative jurisprudence and you may rest assured that our new president-elect will appoint justices to the Supreme Court of the United States of America in the tradition of the late and great Justice Antonin Scalia."

5. Pence leaving stage

Vice President-elect Mike Pence is claiming a governing mandate for the Trump administration, calling on conservative activists to help the incoming White House pass an ambitiously conservative agenda.

Pence made little reference to still-simmering national divides in his address at a Tuesday night event honoring top donors to the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank that's working closely with Donald Trump's transition effort.

Pence spoke in the "presidential ballroom" of Trump's Washington, D.C., hotel.

POOL

Washington - 6 December 2016

+++SOUNDBITES SEPARATED BY BLACK FRAMES+++

1. Mike Pence walking to stage

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pence, Vice President-elect:

"For America to be prosperous, for America to be strong, America must be safe. It was Ronald Regan who taught us that peace comes through strength and yet it would be in recent years, despite the ongoing admonition from the Heritage Foundation about its central mission of a commitment to a national defense, the reality is today that this administration and in so many ways for even longer we've walked away from our commitment to be that arsenal of democracy in the world."

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pence, Vice President-elect:

"I want to promise you we're going to roll our sleeves up and in the first 100 days we're going to pass a military supplemental, we're going to rebuild our military, we're going to restore the arsenal of democracy, we're going to give soldiers, saikors, airmen, marines and the coast guard the resources and training they need to protect our nation and they are going to hunt down and destroy ISIS at its source so it can no longer threaten our people or inspire violence in the homeland."

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pence, Vice President-elect:

"I want to thank the Heritage Foundation and other great conservative organizations like the Federalist Society that have weighed in. It is a list that legal scholars and conservative thought leaders have called a gold mine of of conservative jurisprudence and you may rest assured that our new president-elect will appoint justices to the Supreme Court of the United States of America in the tradition of the late and great Anotonin Scalia."

5. Pence leaving stage

Iran has rejected the idea that the country's recent missile test was a warning signal to the administration of US President Donald Trump.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi made the comments on Monday - a day after US Vice President Mike Pence warned Iran not to test the new leadership's resolve.

Ghasemi said Iran has a "deep understanding and knowledge" of the US and does not need to test it through conducting missile launches.

Pence's warning came after the Trump administration ordered sanctions in response to the missile test, increasing pressure on Tehran without directly undercutting a landmark nuclear deal with the country.

During his weekly briefing, Ghasemi also pointed to another round of Syrian peace talks in the Kazakh capital, Astana, between Iran, Turkey and Russia.

He said Iran would be looking to play a "bigger and more sensitive role" in Syria as they attempt to consolidate the country's fragile ceasefire.

When asked about an unconfirmed report of a missile attack on Saudi Arabia by Yemeni rebels on Sunday, and Iran's alleged role in supporting them, Ghasemi denied any involvement from his country.

++AP Television is adhering to Iranian law that stipulates all media are banned from providing BBC Persian, VOA Persian or Manoto 1 any coverage from Iran, and under this law if any media violate this ban the Iranian authorities can immediately shut down that organisation in Tehran.++

AP TELEVISION - NO ACCESS BBC PERSIAN/VOA PERSIAN/MANOTO 1

Tehran - 6 February 2017

1. Bahram Ghasemi, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, entering weekly briefing

2. Cutaway of photographer

3. Tilt and pan of briefing room

4. SOUNDBITE (Farsi) Bahram Ghasemi, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman:

"Saying our missile programme and the missile test that took place is a sign or signal to the new American administration is incorrect."

5. Pan of briefing room

6. SOUNDBITE (Farsi) Bahram Ghasemi, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman:

"We do not need to test them (US) and we have a deep understanding and knowledge about the other side. What is happening here (missile test) is our policy and part of a pre-planned schedule."

7. Wide of briefing room

8. SOUNDBITE (Farsi) Bahram Ghasemi, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman:

"The Astana meeting, which will happen today, is absolutely technical and its purpose is to prepare initial coordination for playing a bigger and more sensitive role in consolidating and maintaining the ceasefire in Syria. This expert-level meeting will be between Iran, Turkey and Russia and I have no information on attendance of other countries."

9. Wide of briefing room

10. SOUNDBITE (Farsi) Bahram Ghasemi, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman:

"(Iran's intervention) in Yemen is irrelevant. We have made no interference in Yemen and have not given any arms to Yemeni militants."

11. Ghasemi leaving briefing

US President Donald Trump praised his administration's fight against the Islamic State group on Friday during a high-profile gathering of Christian conservatives, saying they have made "tremendous strides... they never got hit like this before."

He also said his administration has "done more against (IS) in nine months than the previous administration has done during its whole administration," and that he is "confronting rogue regimes from Iran to North Korea."

POOL

Washington - 13 October 2017

1. SOUNDBITE (English): Donald Trump, US President:

"We will call evil by its name. We stand with our friends and allies. We forge new partnerships in pursuit of peace and we take decisive action against those who would threaten our people with harm."

2. Wide of Trump on stage

3. SOUNDBITE (English): Donald Trump, US President:

"We will confront the dangers that imperil our nation, our allies and the world, including the threat of radical Islamic terrorism. (cheers) We have made great strides against ISIS -- tremendous strides. I don't know of you've seen what's going on, but tremendous strides against ISIS. They never get hit like this before."

4. Wide of Trump on stage

5. SOUNDBITE (English): Donald Trump, US President:

"But they've been just ruthless and they've ruthlessly slaughtered innocent Christians, along with the vicious killing of innocent Muslims and other religious minorities. And we've made their lives very, very difficult."

6. Wide of Trump on stage

7. SOUNDBITE (English): Donald Trump, US President:

"We have done more against ISIS in nine months than the previous administration's done during its whole administration by far. By far. And ISIS is now being dealt one defeat after another. We're confronting rogue regimes from Iran to North Korea. And we are challenging the communist dictatorship of Cuba and the socialist oppression of Venezuela. And we will not lift the sanctions on these repressive regimes until they restore political and religious freedom for their people."

8. Wide of Trump on stage

9. SOUNDBITE (English): Donald Trump, US President:

"We will pass on the blessings of liberty and the glories of God to our children. Our values will endure. Our nation will thrive. Our citizens will flourish and our freedom will triumph."

10. Wide of Trump at end of speech

China said on Friday that countries with the largest nuclear arsenals should take the lead in disarmament, after US President-elect Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin said they wanted to strengthen their nations' nuclear capabilities.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told reporters at a regular briefing that Beijing is "paying close attention" to what nuclear weapons policy Trump's administration will follow.

After meeting with Pentagon officials and defence contractors a day earlier, Trump tweeted on Thursday: "The United States must greatly strengthen and expand its nuclear capability until such time as the world comes to its senses regarding nukes."

His comments came hours after Putin said he wanted to strengthen Russia's own nuclear capabilities in the coming year.

Speaking at the same briefing Hua also said China was keeping its eye on Japan's increasing military budget.

The comments came after the Japanese cabinet approved its biggest annual defence budget on Friday.

It was the fifth straight annual increase as part of the hawkish Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's attempt to build up Japan's military.

Hua also defended China's right to build facilities in islands disputed with the Philippines.

The remarks were in response to the US think tank the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) which said in a report earlier this month that China has installed anti-missile weapons on all the artificial islands it has built in the South China Sea, and Philippines officials have expressed concerns over it.

Beijing - 23 December 2016

1. China's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying arriving at briefing

2. Cutaway of journalists

3. SOUNDBITE (Mandarin) Hua Chunying, Spokeswoman, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

"We noted the report. We are paying close attention to the policies to be taken by the new US government regarding the issue. China has been supporting and advocating the full prohibition and destruction of nuclear weapons. The countries having the largest nuclear arsenal should take on the special prior responsibility of nuclear disarmament, take a lead in drastically and tangibly cutting the number of nuclear weapons so as to create conditions for full and thorough nuclear disarmament in the end."

4. Cutaway of journalists

5. SOUNDBITE (Mandarin) Hua Chunying, Spokeswoman, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

"In recent years, Japan has constantly played up the so-called China threat on the one hand, and on the other hand, it has continuously built up its military power. Due to historical reasons, I think we have every reason to keep a high alert on Japan's moves and its true intentions. Actually, I noted that many people in Japan had questioned and criticised such policies and actions taken by the Japanese government. Regarding whether Japan can truly draw lessons from history and stick to the path of peaceful development, the international community including its Asian neighbours will wait and see."

6. Cutaway of journalist

7. SOUNDBITE (Mandarin) Hua Chunying, Spokeswoman, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

"I want to reiterate that whether China is building facilities in the relevant islands, or deploying necessary defence facilities, China is exercising the normal right as a sovereign state prescribed in international law. We hope the relevant sides will see this in a level-headed and objective way instead of reading too much into it."

8. Cutaway of journalist

9. Hua walking away at end of briefing

A top adviser to Donald Trump says his daughter, Ivanka, and her husband, Jared Kushner, would be the most likely family members to have official staff roles.

Kellyanne Conway said Thursday that any of the president-elect's adult children who work in the administration would separate from their father's business empire.

Trump's transition aides say lawyers are working to untangle Trump and his family from their business empire after criticism that failing to do anything short of creating a blind trust would expose them to conflict of interest investigations and lawsuits.

President-elect Trump met with Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence, Peter King on Thursday as well as a group from the US Conference of Mayors.

POOL

New York - December 15, 2016

1. Kellyanne Conway approaching reporters

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Kellyanne Conway, senior advisor, Trump transition team:

"So Ivanka and Jared will make their own decision and announcement in due course. I think that we would benefit tremendously by having them inside the administration, if in fact that could happen. Ivanka is incredibly committed to women in the workplace, women and the economy, women entrepreneurs. She's had a wonderful platform during the campaign. Certainly, she and her father announcing the childcare and elder care plan I think was a big highlight of our campaign and our outreach to women particularly."

3. Conway near elevators

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Kellyanne Conway, senior advisor, Trump transition team:

"I was not in their meeting. And I wouldn't disclose that anyways, but I will tell you that Congressman Pete King has been a tremendous asset and he's offered his counsel to the president-elect on any number of occasions. You see him on TV, you see his voting record, you see he's very emphatic about keeping America and Americans and her allies and her interests abroad at here at home safe. And it's a dangerous role. You see what's going on. We know that he's got an opinion about the latest CIA information and he's always welcome here."

5. Mayors approaching microphones

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Mick Cornett, Mayor Oklahoma City:

"We had a fairly interesting meeting with the president-elect. It lasted about 15-20 minutes. He showed great interest in helping cities progress. Our priorities are based around infrastructure, public safety and he has pledged to be a partner in those efforts."

7. Mayors approaching microphones

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Mick Cornett, Mayor Oklahoma City:

"We gave him our input that we hope that a former mayor or present mayor is elevated to a position of interest inside the White House, who could guide the administration on inter-governmental affairs as it applies to local governments."

9. Trump Tower lobby

Beijing reiterated China's opposition to the Theatre High-Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) as US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis discussed with South Korea a timetable for deploying an advanced US missile defence to improve protection of South Korea and Japan on Friday.

"We have resolute opposition to the deployment of THAAD to South Korea by the US and ROK (Republic of Korea), which remains unchanged and will not change," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said.

"Such actions by the US and ROK will jeopardise security and the strategic interests of regional countries, including China, and undermine the strategic balance in the region," he criticised.

During the regular briefing, he said, "we do not believe that these actions can help resolve the peninsula's nuclear issue and benefit peninsular peace and stability. Therefore, we urge the relevant parties to halt the process of deployment so as to refrain from going further down the wrong path."

Beijing - 3 February 2017

1. Wide of Ministry of Foreign Affairs' briefing

2. Cutaway

3. SOUNDBITE (Mandarin) Lu Kang, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson:

(Responding to US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis' statement on deploying the Theatre High-Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) to South Korea:

"We noted the report. We have stated our position regarding the issue of THAAD on many occasions. I believe you must be very clear about it. We have resolute opposition against the deployment of THAAD to South Korea by the US and ROK (Republic of Korea), which remains unchanged and will not change. Such actions by the US and ROK will jeopardise security and strategic interest of regional countries including China and will undermine the strategic balance in the region. We do not believe that these actions can help or resolve the nuclear issue of the (Korean) peninsula and do good to the peninsular peace and stability. Therefore, we urge the relevant parties to halt the process of deployment so as to refrain from going further on the wrong path."

4. Cutaway

5. SOUNDBITE (Mandarin) Lu Kang, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson:

(Responding to US President Donald Trump's comment on China and calling it the US's "enemy" for allegedly stealing jobs and engaging in espionage on US companies)

"I hope all parties concerned note the development of trade and economic relationship between China and the US has brought tangible benefits to the both countries and has boosted the global economic growth. To maintain such sound momentum is in the interest of both sides."

6. Cutaway

7. SOUNDBITE (Mandarin) Lu Kang, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson:

(Responding to Trump's comment on China and Japan and alleged currency manipulation)

"China has never used the 'currency war' to its trade advantage or means to promote trade competitiveness. We have no intention to wage a currency war because in the long term it also harms China's interest. With regards to the differences in China-US trade and economic relations, as I said before, such issues can be dealt with and settled through friendly consultation. It has been proven historically that the development of a bilateral relationship has tangibly benefited both and the business circles of two sides. Such a favourable situation and momentum should be maintained."

8. Cutaway

9. SOUNDBITE (Mandarin) Lu Kang, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson:

(Responding to Trump's advisor commenting on the possibility of a war in the South China Sea in five to ten years)

"China is committed to safeguarding peace and stability in the South China Sea, together with the regional states. We hope that the countries outside the region will respect the common interest and common aspiration of regional states and ensure a peaceful and stable situation in the region, which I believe is in favour of all parties."

10. Cutaway

11. End of briefing

FOR CLEAN VERSION SEE STORY NUMBER: apus046340

Republican Presidential Candidate Donald Trump courted Evangelical Christians on Monday, speaking at Liberty University.

The university was founded by conservative televangelist Jerry Falwell.

Trump pleged to protect Christianity, saying it's under siege.

He also criticized the Iran nuclear agreement, calling it one-sided in Iran's favor.

Trump said US policy has destabilized the Middle East as he had warned would happen when he previously voiced opposition to the war in Iraq.

He said that now "Iran is taking over the Middle East".

FOR CLEAN VERSION SEE STORY NUMBER: apus046340

Republican Presidential Candidate Donald Trump courted Evangelical Christians on Monday, speaking at Liberty University.

The university was founded by conservative televangelist Jerry Falwell.

Trump pleged to protect Christianity, saying it's under siege.

He also criticized the Iran nuclear agreement, calling it one-sided in Iran's favor.

Trump said US policy has destabilized the Middle East as he had warned would happen when he previously voiced opposition to the war in Iraq.

He said that now "Iran is taking over the Middle East".

POOL

Lynchburg, Virginia - 18 January 2016

++SOTS SEPARATED BY WHITE FLASH++

1. SOUNDBITE: (English) Donald Trump, (R) Presidential Candidate:

"I want to win Iowa. Let's see, we've done great...(APPLAUSE)... we've done great with the evangelicals; the evangelicals have been amazing, the Tea Party has been amazing. And we're doing really well there. So we'll see what happens, but we're going to give it our best and I think we could really surprise a lot of people by winning Iowa and then we're just going to clean the table."

2. SOUNDBITE: (English) Donald Trump, (R) Presidential Candidate:

"2 Corinthians, right, 2 Corinthians 3:17. That's the whole ball game. "Where the spirit of the Lord" -- right? -- "Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." And here, there is Liberty College, but -- Liberty University. But it is so true. (APPLAUSE) You know, when you think -- and that's really -- is that the one? Is that the one you like? I think that's the one you like, because I loved it and it's so representative of what's taken place. But we are going to protect Christianity. And if you look what's going on throughout the world, you look at Syria where they're -- if you're Christian, they're chopping off heads. You look at the different places, and Christianity, it's under siege. I'm a Protestant, I'm very proud of it; Presbyterian to be exact. But I'm proud of it, very, very proud of it. And we've got to protect because bad things are happening, very, bad things are happening. And we don't -- I don't know what it is. We don't band together. Maybe other religions, frankly, they're banning together and they're using it."

3. SOUNDBITE: (English) Donald Trump, (R) Presidential Candidate:

"Iran is taking over the Middle East. We have totally destabilized the Middle East and I said this in 2004. We have totally destabilized the Middle East. It's a disaster. And you look at this new Iran deal which took forever to get done. You look at how bad it is and how one-sided it is. You look at how one-sided this deal is."

4. SOUNDBITE: (English) Donald Trump, (R) Presidential Candidate:

"I wrote "The Art of the Deal," I wrote many bestsellers, like "The Art of the Deal" -- everybody read the -- who has read "The Art of the Deal" in this room? Everybody. (LAUGHTER) I always say -- I always say, a deep, deep second to the Bible. The Bible is the best. The Bible -- the Bible blows it away. There's nothing like the bible."

RESTRICTION SUMMARY: AP CLIENTS ONLY

SHOTLIST:

POOL - AP CLIENTS ONLY

Washington, D.C. - 16 May 2017

++SOUNDBITES SEPARATED BY BLACK++

1. Mid, pan Susan Rice on stage

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Susan Rice, former National Security Adviser in the Obama Administration:

"It seems that the current administration looks at the world and sees only threats: Immigrants, refugees, Muslims, Mexicans, even trade. It is America first and the rest of the world last. I fully recognize that we face serious threats. I spent eight years actually reading the Presidential Daily Briefing and the last three and a half years personally briefing President Obama. But the world I see is also filled with profound opportunities. Our relationships are not zero sum, they would be mutually beneficial."

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Susan Rice, former National Security Adviser in the Obama Administration:

"Conflict is not inevitable. And bluster is for bullies. But our adversaries from Russia to North Korea must know that we will confront them with unity, resolve and with every tool at our disposal. When we employ military force we must use it judiciously because we have learned from Vietnam to Iraq, that even the finest fighting force on Earth cannot defeat the underlying political, economic and sectarian forces that fuel conflict."

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Susan Rice, former National Security Adviser in the Obama Administration:

"We can't allow Twitter wars to become shooting wars. So instead of vacillating between reckless saber rattling and dubbing Kim Jung Un a 'smart cookie' we should steadily apply increased pressure on North Korea, while protecting our allies and our homeland. And instead of excusing Russia's outrageous behavior and branding NATO obsolete, we must defend every NATO ally unconditionally and firmly counter Russia's Cold War tactics."

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Susan Rice, former National Security Adviser in the Obama Administration:

"Surely we will often disagree, but we sure as hell need to agree that a hostile foreign power has no business messing with our elections. (applause) Because here is the truth, if we cannot find a way to put country over party, Democracy over demagoguery, even in the face of such a dangerous external threat, then we might as well hang up our leadership cleats and resign ourselves to becoming a second rate power. That should not be our future, we are so much better than that."

6. Pan, as Rice leaves stage

STORYLINE:

Obama administration national security adviser Susan Rice says the White House under Donald Trump is obsessed with threats.

"It seems that the current administration looks at the world and sees only threats: immigrants, refugees, Muslims, Mexicans, even trade," Rice tells a progressive daylong conference in Washington, D.C., organized by the Center for American Progress.

Rice made a dig a Trump's current intelligence woes by remarking she actually read the Presidential Daily Briefing and personally briefed President Obama for three and a half years on intelligence matters.

Rice also criticizes President Trump's continue use of Twitter to attack his opponents: "we can't allow Twitter wars to become shooting wars."

Refering to allegations of Russian meddling in the US Presidential election, she says that while Republicans and Democrats often disagree, "we sure as hell need to agree that a hostile foreign power has no business messing with our elections."

===========================================================

Clients are reminded:

(i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: info@aparchive.com

(ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service

(iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory.

RESTRICTION SUMMARY: AP CLIENTS ONLY

SHOTLIST:

ASSOCIATED PRESS - AP CLIENTS ONLY

Washington, DC - 19 April 2017

1. White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer walks to podium

2. Cutaway of reporter

3 . SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"The president is directing an interagency review of the deal to review that, and we have 90 days before the next one comes up, and we'll have more. But, right now we're undergoing a 90 day review, and I think the statement the secretary of state made to Congress clearly stated that the president is directing the National Security Council to lead an interagency review of the plan and evaluate whether suspension sanctions related to Iran, pursuant to the JCPOA (Iran nuclear deal) are in the vital interest of our national security. The letter clearly lays out what the president is going to do to make sure they are living up to their agreement."

4. Reverse angle of Spicer at podium

5. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

(Reporter, off-camera: "Is the president concerned that Iran may be cheating on the JCPOA? David Albright, the noted weapons inspector, says they're developing a new centrifuge which he thinks could be a violation.")

"And I think that's why he's asking for this review. If he didn't, if he thought everything was fine, he would have allowed this to move forward. He's doing the prudent thing by asking for a review of the current deal and what's happening."

6. Cutaway of reporter

7. Wide of Spicer at the podium

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

(Reporter, off-camera: "The president has said that he would like to see the nuclear deal renegotiated with Iran. How specifically does he plan to get a new deal? Is that something he still wants to do?")

"Well, again, that's why we're undergoing this interagency review. Part of this is to get the entire team to look at it in the next 90 days, review that is required under the deal. So we will have recommendations presented to the president on where the deal stands and how to act further."

9. Cutaway of reporters

10. Wide of Spicer speaking to reporters

11. SOUNDBITE (English) Sean Spicer, White House Press Secretary:

"While we're on the topic of upcoming events, I'd like to note the president will welcome Palestinian President Abbas for a visit to Washington on May 3rd. They will use the visit to affirm the commitment of the United States and the Palestinian leadership to pursuing and ultimately concluding a conflict-ending settlement between the Palestinians and Israel.

12. Spicer exiting briefing room

STORYLINE:

White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer said on Wednesday that the US administration is "doing the prudent thing" by conducting a 90-day interagency review of the Iran nuclear deal to make sure Iran is living up to its side of the agreement.

"Part of this is to get the entire team to look at it the next 90 days, review that is required under the deal," Spicer said. "So we will have recommendations presented to the president on where the deal stands and how to act further."

The Trump administration has notified Congress that Iran is complying with the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated by former President Barack Obama, and says the U.S. has extended the sanctions relief given to the Islamic republic in exchange for curbs on its atomic program.

However, in a letter sent late Tuesday to House Speaker Paul Ryan, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said the administration has undertaken a full review of the agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

The certification of Iran's compliance, which must be sent to Congress every 90 days, is the first issued by the Trump administration.

The deadline for this certification was midnight.

As a candidate in the 2016 presidential election, Donald Trump was an outspoken critic of the deal but had offered conflicting opinions on whether he would try to scrap it, modify it or keep it in place with more strenuous enforcement.

Tuesday's determination suggested that while Trump agreed with findings by the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, that Iran is keeping to its end of the bargain, he is looking for another way to ratchet up pressure on Tehran.

Spicer also told reporters at the briefing that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas was scheduled to visit Washington early in May and hold talks with Trump.

===========================================================

Clients are reminded:

(i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: info@aparchive.com

(ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service

(iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory.

After a meeting with US President-elect Donald Trump, Mitt Romney said he is looking forward to Trump's administration.

Romney met with Trump at a golf course in New Jersey on Saturday.

The 2012 Republican presidential nominee was an outspoken critic of Trump during the election, calling him a "con man" and a "fraud." But the two have started to make amends since the election. Romney called Trump to congratulate him after his win.

POOL

Bedminster, New Jersey - 19 November 2016

++CONTINUOUS SHOT++

1. US President-elect Donald Trump and 2012 Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney walking out and shaking hands after meeting

2. SOUNDBITE (Englishll) Mitt Romney, 2012 Republican presidential candidate:

"We had a far-reaching conversation with regards to the various theatres in the world where there are interests of the United States of real significance. We discussed those areas and exchanged our views on those topics. Very thorough and in-depth discussion in the time we had. And, I appreciate the chance to speak with the president-elect, and look forward to the coming administration and the things they are doing. Thank you."

3. Romney walking to car, car driving off

The Trump administration on Friday announced a new wave of sanctions on Iran following this week's missile strikes by the Islamic Republic on U.S. bases in Iraq.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the new sanctions will target eight senior Iranian officials involved in "destabilizing" activities in the Middle East as well as Tuesday's missile strike, which came in retaliation for the U.S. killing of a senior Iranian general in a drone strike.

Mnuchin said President Donald Trump will issue an executive order imposing sanctions on anyone involved in the Iranian textile, construction, manufacturing or mining sectors. They will also impose separate sanctions against the steel and iron sectors.

"As a result of these actions we will cut off billions of dollars of support to the Iranian regime," the treasury secretary said.

The administration has already reinstated all the U.S. sanctions that were eased under the 2015 nuclear deal, which has caused significant economic hardship in Iran and cut its oil exports to historic lows.

Iran this week launched the strikes in retaliation for the U.S. drone strike that killed Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the country's most powerful commander, in Baghdad last week.

Washington - 10 January 2020

1. Wide, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin walk into briefing room

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Steve Mnuchin, U.S. Treasury Secretary:

"I'm sure everybody saw that the Dow hit 29,000. The president's economic plans are clearly working. We're looking forward to the China signing, USCMA and a very strong economy this year. As previously announced by the president, we are announcing additional sanctions against the Iranian regime as a result of the attack on U.S. and allied troops. First, the president is issuing an executive order authorizing the imposition of additional sanctions against any individual owning, operating, trading with or assisting sectors of the Iranian economy including construction, manufacturing, textiles and mining. And, let me be clear, these will both be primary and secondary sanctions. The EO also allows us to designate other sectors in the future as Secretary Pompeo and me think is appropriate. Second, we are announcing 17 specific sanctions against Iran's largest steel and iron manufacturers, three Seychelles based entities and a vessel involved in the transfer of products. As a result of these actions, we will cut off billions of dollars of support to the Iranian regime and we will continue our enforcement of other entities. Third, we are taking action against eight senior Iranian officials who advanced the regime's destabilizing activity and were involved in Tuesday's ballistic missile strike. Secretary Pompeo will comment more on this. Today's sanctions are part of our commitment to stop the Iranian regime's global terrorist activities. The president has been very clear, we will continue to apply economic sanctions until Iran stops its terrorist activist activities and commit that it will never have nuclear weapons."

3. Cutaway

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pompeo, U.S. Secretary of State:

"Today, President Trump is delivering on the pledge that he made the day after Iran attacked American forces in Iraq where there will be a series of new sanctions. Secretary Mnuchin just mentioned eight senior Iranian officials that are responsible for the regime's violence, both at home and abroad. We're striking at the heart of the Islamic republic's inner security apparatus. These sanctions targets include the secretary of the Supreme National Council and the commander of the Basij forces. That's the regime's brute squad, which has in the last few months killed approximately 1500 Iranians who were simply demanding freedom. Our action also targets other senior leaders close to the Ayatollah. They've carried out his terrorist plots and destabilizing campaigns across the Middle East and around the world. They've employed soldiers across the region's battlefields. They've trained militias in Iraq, Syria and elsewhere in the arts of domestic repression. Today, they're accountable for murder and mayhem. The goal of our campaign is to deny the regime the resource to conduct its destructive foreign policy. We want Iran to simply behave like a normal nation. We believe the sanctions that we imposed today, further that strategic objective. Our campaign is composed of diplomatic, economic components that deprive the regime of billions in revenue. The regime has used to fuel death and destruction across the Middle East and all across the world. Sadly, the previous administration had opened up revenue streams for Iran. But under our administration, revenue oil revenues are down by 80% and Iran cannot access roughly 90 percent of its foreign currency reserves. And not even two weeks ago, President Rouhani of Iran admitted that our sanctions have cost Iran over 200 billion dollars in lost foreign income and investment. As long as Iran's outlaws ways continue, we will continue to impose sanctions. Finally, I want to reiterate President Trump's concern for Americans and dual national citizens detained inside of Iran. Iran knows that these individuals have committed no crime. They know the charges against them are fake. We will do all that we can to get each of them returned home safely to their families. With that we will take just a few questions."

5. Side view, Pompeo speaking

The Trump administration on Friday announced a new wave of sanctions on Iran following this week's missile strikes by the Islamic Republic on U.S. bases in Iraq.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the new sanctions will target eight senior Iranian officials involved in "destabilizing" activities in the Middle East as well as Tuesday's missile strike, which came in retaliation for the U.S. killing of a senior Iranian general in a drone strike.

Mnuchin said President Donald Trump will issue an executive order imposing sanctions on anyone involved in the Iranian textile, construction, manufacturing or mining sectors. They will also impose separate sanctions against the steel and iron sectors.

"As a result of these actions we will cut off billions of dollars of support to the Iranian regime," the treasury secretary said.

The administration has already reinstated all the U.S. sanctions that were eased under the 2015 nuclear deal, which has caused significant economic hardship in Iran and cut its oil exports to historic lows.

Iran this week launched the strikes in retaliation for the U.S. drone strike that killed Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the country's most powerful commander, in Baghdad last week.

Washington - 10 January 2020

1. Wide, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin walk into briefing room

2. SOUNDBITE (English) Steve Mnuchin, U.S. Treasury Secretary:

"I'm sure everybody saw that the Dow hit 29,000. The president's economic plans are clearly working. We're looking forward to the China signing, USCMA and a very strong economy this year. As previously announced by the president, we are announcing additional sanctions against the Iranian regime as a result of the attack on U.S. and allied troops. First, the president is issuing an executive order authorizing the imposition of additional sanctions against any individual owning, operating, trading with or assisting sectors of the Iranian economy including construction, manufacturing, textiles and mining. And, let me be clear, these will both be primary and secondary sanctions. The EO also allows us to designate other sectors in the future as Secretary Pompeo and me think is appropriate. Second, we are announcing 17 specific sanctions against Iran's largest steel and iron manufacturers, three Seychelles based entities and a vessel involved in the transfer of products. As a result of these actions, we will cut off billions of dollars of support to the Iranian regime and we will continue our enforcement of other entities. Third, we are taking action against eight senior Iranian officials who advanced the regime's destabilizing activity and were involved in Tuesday's ballistic missile strike. Secretary Pompeo will comment more on this. Today's sanctions are part of our commitment to stop the Iranian regime's global terrorist activities. The president has been very clear, we will continue to apply economic sanctions until Iran stops its terrorist activist activities and commit that it will never have nuclear weapons."

3. Cutaway

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Mike Pompeo, U.S. Secretary of State:

"Today, President Trump is delivering on the pledge that he made the day after Iran attacked American forces in Iraq where there will be a series of new sanctions. Secretary Mnuchin just mentioned eight senior Iranian officials that are responsible for the regime's violence, both at home and abroad. We're striking at the heart of the Islamic republic's inner security apparatus. These sanctions targets include the secretary of the Supreme National Council and the commander of the Basij forces. That's the regime's brute squad, which has in the last few months killed approximately 1500 Iranians who were simply demanding freedom. Our action also targets other senior leaders close to the Ayatollah. They've carried out his terrorist plots and destabilizing campaigns across the Middle East and around the world. They've employed soldiers across the region's battlefields. They've trained militias in Iraq, Syria and elsewhere in the arts of domestic repression. Today, they're accountable for murder and mayhem. The goal of our campaign is to deny the regime the resource to conduct its destructive foreign policy. We want Iran to simply behave like a normal nation. We believe the sanctions that we imposed today, further that strategic objective. Our campaign is composed of diplomatic, economic components that deprive the regime of billions in revenue. The regime has used to fuel death and destruction across the Middle East and all across the world. Sadly, the previous administration had opened up revenue streams for Iran. But under our administration, revenue oil revenues are down by 80% and Iran cannot access roughly 90 percent of its foreign currency reserves. And not even two weeks ago, President Rouhani of Iran admitted that our sanctions have cost Iran over 200 billion dollars in lost foreign income and investment. As long as Iran's outlaws ways continue, we will continue to impose sanctions. Finally, I want to reiterate President Trump's concern for Americans and dual national citizens detained inside of Iran. Iran knows that these individuals have committed no crime. They know the charges against them are fake. We will do all that we can to get each of them returned home safely to their families. With that we will take just a few questions."

5. Side view, Pompeo speaking

US President Donald Trump acted October 26th 2017 to block the release of hundreds of records on the John F. Kennedy assassination, bending to CIA and FBI appeals to keep those secrets.

"I have no choice," Trump said in a memo, citing "potentially irreversible harm" to national security if he were to allow some records out now.

He was placing those files under a six-month review while letting 2,800 other records come out on October 26th, racing a deadline to honour a law mandating their release.

Officials say Trump will impress upon federal agencies that JFK files should stay secret after the six-month review "only in the rarest cases."

Despite having months to prepare for disclosures that have been set on the calendar for 25 years, Trump's decision came down to a last-minute debate with intelligence agencies, a tussle the president has only prolonged by calling for still more review.

Much of October 26th passed with nothing from the White House or National Archives except silence, leaving unclear how the government would comply with a law requiring the records to come out by the end of the day, unless Trump had been persuaded by intelligence agencies to hold some back.

White House officials said the FBI and CIA made the most requests within the government to withhold some information.

No blockbusters had been expected in the last trove of secret files regarding Kennedy's assassination November 22nd 1963, given a statement months ago by the Archives that it assumed the records, then under preparation, would be "tangential" to what's known about the killing.

But for historians, it's a chance to answer lingering questions, put some unfounded conspiracy theories to rest, perhaps give life to other theories _ or none of that, if the material adds little to the record.

Researchers were frustrated by the uncertainty that surrounded the release for much of the day.

Trump ordered agencies that have proposed withholding material related to the assassination to report to the archivist by March 12 on which specific information in the records meets the standard for continued secrecy.

That standard includes details that could cause "harm to the military defense, intelligence operations, law enforcement, or conduct of foreign relations," Trump wrote in his order.

The archivist will have two weeks to tell Trump whether those recommendations validate keeping the withheld information a secret after April 26th.

***

Congressional Democratic leaders held a joint press conference November 13th to warn the GOP Tax Plan will hurt citizens and the Republicans if they push through.

"We don't know yet what the final bill will look like but we can guarantee, our Republican friends one thing," said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

"This tax bill will be at the center of our efforts to take back the House and the Senate in 2018."

House Minority leader Nancy Pelosi went on to say "we have to save the country from this unfair tax scam."

"The Republican leadership is asking their members to walk the plank to walk, the plank on a bill, that never become law but has serious impact on their constituents."

***

Speaker of the House Paul Ryan called the tax bill passed by the Senate December 5th "monumental reform" as he and other Republican leaders continued to celebrate the bill's progress, which was sent to a conference committee Monday evening.

Meanwhile, House Republican leaders are sticking to their plan for a short-term extension to keep the government open despite opposition from the hard-right Freedom Caucus.

Congress faces a December 8th midnight deadline to fund government agencies or face a partial shutdown.

Rep. Pete Sessions, chairman of the House Rules Committee, told reporters Tuesday that the House is moving ahead on a two-week extension to December 22nd. This would give Republicans and Democrats time to negotiation some of the last-minute agenda items such as spending totals, money for children's health care and disaster relief.

Speaker of the House Paul Ryan said "we are having the kind of family discussion that we need to have about how to proceed forward with a majority and I'm confident we'll have that."

Conservatives in the House Freedom Caucus want an extension until Dec. 30, fearing that the short-term date would give Democrats move leverage in negotiations.

The Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress are scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump on December 7th.

***

Three judges on the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said they'll rule "as soon as practical" on the state of Hawaii's legal challenge to President Donald Trump's latest travel restrictions.

Judges Ronald Gould, Richard Paez and Michael Hawkins - who ruled against an earlier version of the travel ban - heard arguments December 6th in Seattle.

The hearing came two days after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed the restrictions to take effect pending decisions by the 9th and 4th Circuits.

Justice Department lawyer Hashim Mooppan insisted to the court that the restrictions fall well within the president's powers.

Hawaii Attorney General Douglas Chin said "religious prejudice" remains in the travel ban and that it's affecting his state economically. He said he's looking forward to the three-judge panel's decision.

Outside the courthouse, dozens of demonstrators gathered to listen to speeches and chant.

Aisha Jumaan, a Yemeni-American resident, said she wants to move her elderly parents and sister to the United States because the area where they live "is bombed almost on a daily basis."

***

Jubilant Republicans pushed on early December 20th to the verge of the most sweeping rewrite of the nation's tax laws in more than three decades, a deeply unpopular bill they insist Americans will learn to love when they see their paychecks in the new year.

President Donald Trump cheered the lawmakers on, eager to claim his first major legislative victory.

After midnight, the Senate narrowly passed the legislation on a party-line 51-48 vote. Protesters interrupted with chants of "kill the bill, don't kill us" and Vice President Mike Pence repeatedly called for order. Upon passage, Republicans cheered, with Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin among them.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., insisted Americans would respond positively to the tax bill.

"If we can't sell this to the American people, we ought to go into another line of work," he said.

Trump hailed the vote in an early morning tweet and promised a White House news conference Wednesday after the House completes legislative action on the measure.

***

US President Donald Trump has signed into law a $1.5 trillion tax overhaul package.

Trump touted the size of the tax cut, declaring to reporters in the Oval Office before he signed it December 22nd that "the numbers will speak."

The president said he was going to wait to sign it until after Jan. 1 but changed his mind.

The legislation provides generous cuts for corporations and the wealthiest Americans and smaller ones for the middle class and low-income families.

It is the first major overhaul of the nation's tax laws since 1986, but far from the largest tax cuts in American history as the president claims. Politically, it marks the Republicans' first major legislative accomplishment of Trump's presidency.

Some estimates say the cuts could add to the nation's soaring deficit.

01:52:24

00:00:00

Some JFK files to remain secret for now

4123001

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Dallas - 26 October 2017

1. Various of Dealey Plaza, where former US President John F. Kennedy was assassinated on 11/22/63, tourists mill around the site

2. The letter "X" marking the spot on the road from where one of the gun shots was fired at the motorcade

00:11:12

Democrat Leaders: Tax Plan Will Hurt Country & GOP

4125792

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Washington - 13 November 2017

3. SOUNDBITE (English) Rep. Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader:

"We have to save the country from this tax. Yes it's a gift politically, to have them vote for raising taxes on suburban American in order to give tax breaks to the wealthiest people in America, but that's not what we're about. We have to save the country from this unfair tax scam."

00:30:16

Ryan: tax bill is monumental reform

4129206

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Washington DC - 5 December 2017

4. SOUNDBITE (English) Rep. Paul Ryan, Speaker of the House:

" This is monumental reform. And we're doing it the right way.

00:34:20

Hawaii fights Trump administration travel ban in court

4129573

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Seattle - 6 December, 2017

5. Demonstrators with signs outside court

6. SOUNDBITE (English) Douglas Chin, (D) Hawaii Attorney General:

"Our concerns about this third travel ban is that, unlike the other temporary ones, this one has no end date. In other words, it's a permanent form of discrimination against people based upon their nation of origin."

00:53:05

Senate Republicans celebrate tax plan vote

4131553

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Washington DC - 20 December, 2017

7. SOUNDBITE (English) Sen. Orrin Hatch, (R) Utah

"I have to say that this is an historic night. The Democrats have said that the American people will remember this night. I hope they do. Because we passed one of the most important tax breaks in this country's history."

01:08:16

Trump Signs $1.5 Trillion Tax Overhaul into Law

4132014

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Washington, D.C. - 22 December 2017

8. SOUNDBITE (English) Donald Trump,US President:

"And then when I watch the news, as you know we had the largest tax cuts in our history just approved. I was going to wait for a formal signing sometime in early January. But then I watched the news this morning and they were all saying 'will he keep his promise, will he sign it by Christmas?' You were one. But will he sign it by Christmas?"

9. Close of tax bill

10. Mid of Trump signing bill into law