Iran rejects 'unjust' nuclear watchdog position

Iran today rejected as “unjust” a decision by the UN nuclear watchdog agency to refer its nuclear programme file to the UN Security Council.

It said it would not be bullied into abandoning its pursuit of nuclear energy.

“The people of Iran will not accept coercion and unjust decisions by international organisations,” Iranian television quoted hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as saying during a visit to Iran’s western province of Lorestan.

“Enemies cannot force the Iranian people to relinquish their rights.

“The era of bullying and brutality is over,” he told a crowd of supporters.

Yesterday, the 35-nation board of the International Atomic Energy Agency concluded a three-day meeting in Vienna on Iran’s nuclear programme, formally opening the path to Security Council action.

Soon after, IAEA chief Mohamed Elbaradei sent a February 27 report on Iran’s status to the council.

The UN Security Council is expected to debate the issue next week.