US President Donald Trump has called on lawmakers to modify a newly passed Russia sanctions bill to accord him sweeping authority to impose tariffs on Iran, a move that threatens to delay the passage of the legislation as it moves to the House of Representatives.

Speaking to journalists in the Oval Office on Wednesday, the American leader pressed for the addition of trade measures aimed at Tehran. "I'd like them to add Iran as tariffs, not just as sanctions, I think that's important, that's what Lindsey wanted," Trump stated.