TEHRAN — Iran's death toll from the new coronavirus outbreak rose by 149 to 1,433 on Friday, while total number of confirmed infections neared 20,000, according to a health ministry official.

Iran is the Middle Eastern nation worst hit by coronavirus where according to an earlier report, quoting the ministry figures said that one person is dying from the virus every 10 minutes with 50 becoming infected every hour.

Meanwhile Iranian President Hassan Rohani delivered a televised speech on Friday at the start of the Iranian New Year.

During the speech he said, Iranians would overcome the coronavirus outbreak with unity. He commended the efforts of doctors and nurses for their courage in fighting the disease.

“Our nation has managed to reach its goals, despite difficulties ... Iran will overcome the coronavirus with unity,” Rohani said.

The authorities have urged the public to avoid family visits or days out this year to stem the spread of the coronavirus. — Agencies