Iran steps up nuclear drive

Iran has stepped up its controversial uranium enrichment drive, the UN’s nuclear agency said in a report that will further inflame Israeli fears the Islamic republic is pushing ahead with atomic bomb plans.

The nuclear watchdog also gave details of its mission to Tehran this week where Iran failed to respond to allegations of research relevant to developing nuclear arms.

It represents a blow to the possible resumption of diplomatic talks that could help defuse fears of a new war in the Middle East.