US Says Iran Response Falls Short Of UN Conditions

WASHINGTON - The U.S. State Department says Iran’s response to a U.S.-backed incentives package aimed at ending the standoff over Tehran’s nuclear programs “falls short” of United Nations’ conditions needed to avoid sanctions.

Iran said on August 22 that it’s ready for “serious talks” on the package. But there was no indication it had agreed to a UN demand to freeze uranium enrichment by August 31 or face possible sanctions.

It’s the first U.S. response to Iran’s reply. In the statement, State Department spokesman Gonzalo Gallegos also says Washington is consulting with UN Security Council members on how to proceed.

The U.S. statement reminds Tehran that the Security Council requires full and verifiable suspension of all uranium-enrichment activity.

Earlier today, White House spokeswoman Dana Perino noted the package is tied to Iran halting its uranium enrichment. France today also emphasized that point.

“We acknowledge that Iran considers its response as a serious offer and we will review it,” Perino said. “The response, however, falls short of the conditions set by the Security Council, which require the full and verifiable suspension of all enrichment-related and reprocessing activities. We are closely consulting with the other members of the Security Council on the next steps.”

U.S. President George W. Bush discussed Iran’s response in a telephone call with UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, who is expected to travel to Iran in the coming days.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry today said it is premature to discuss sanctions against Iran since the August 31 deadline has not yet passed.