Iran approves nuclear vote

IRAN’S parliament voted yesterday to oblige the government to develop a nuclear fuel cycle - an action opposed by the United States, which fears the Islamic republic is seeking to acquire atomic weapons.

The vote will increase pressure on talks with France, Germany and Britain aimed at quelling fears about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

The European Union trio persuaded Iran to suspend the fuel cycle last year to clear the way for talks, but Iranian officials frustrated with the slow pace of negotiations have threatened to restart nuclear activities.