The US House of Representatives passed a new package of sanctions against Iran that aim to punish banks, insurance companies and shippers that help Tehran sell its oil.
Mitt Romney took a crucial step toward the Republican presidential nomination as he scored a solid victory in New Hampshire despite blistering attacks on his record as a businessman.
Rivals heaped criticism on surprise front-runner Rick Santorum in a debate among Republican presidential candidates, hoping to stall his surge at a pivotal period in the 2012 campaign.
US Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul effectively ended his White House bid, saying he would no longer campaign actively in states that have yet to hold primary elections.