US not in position to launch 'lunatic attack': Iranian leader

The United States has too many problems in Iraq to attack Iran, President Mohammad Khatami said today but added that his nation has plans in place should Washington make any aggressive moves.

Khatami’s remarks, made in an interview with Iran’s state-run radio while the president was wrapping up a 10-day, seven-nation tour of Africa, marked the most senior response to recent reports indicating the United States may be considering military action against Iran.

“The possibility of a US attack against Iran is very low. We think America is not in a position to take a lunatic action of attacking Iran,” Khatami said.

Iran does not welcome tension with the United States, he said, but is ready to defend itself if attacked.

“The US is deeply engaged in Iraq,” he said, then added: “We move forward with full vigilance. We don’t welcome any tension but if, God forbid, it commits an act of aggression, we have prepared ourselves. We have plans for it.”

He did not elaborate on how Iran would respond or defend itself.