Iran said it was very optimistic over a visit by UN nuclear inspectors aimed at shedding light on suspected military aspects of Tehran’s atomic work, but suggested Tehran would curb cooperation if the experts became a “tool” for outside powers.

UN nuclear inspectors today began a critical mission to Iran to probe allegations of a secret atomic weapons programme.

Iran is ready to revive talks with the world powers, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has said, as Tehran faces tougher sanctions over its controversial nuclear programme.

A senior UN nuclear agency team will visit Tehran on January 28, with Iran saying it is ready to discuss allegations that it was involved in secret nuclear weapons work, diplomats said today.

UN inspectors got their first look yesterday inside a once-secret uranium enrichment facility that has raised Western suspicions about the extent of Iran’s nuclear programme.

A team of UN inspectors today prepared for their first look inside a formerly secret uranium enrichment facility that has raised Western suspicions about the extent of Iran’s nuclear programme.