Washington, February 24: The United States warned Iran Tuesday that “time and patience is running out” over its suspect nuclear program.
White House spokesman Robert Gibbs reiterated US warnings of “consequences” if Iran continues to develop uranium enrichment capabilities.
Tehran said Tuesday it submitted a letter to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), saying it was prepared to buy fuel for a nuclear reactor or swap its own stockpile of low-enriched uranium for the fuel, albeit on its own territory.
The US has offered to make such a trade only outside Iran.
State Department spokesman Philip Crowley said the latest Iranian proposal was “unacceptable.”
“We will continue to work within the IAEA and also consult from the international standpoint on appropriate next steps, including the prospect of sanctions,” Crowley said.
“We have not closed the door to further engagement, but you have actually to have a willing partner to engage.
“The fact is, Iran makes these series of statements day after day, week after week, but refuses to come to the table and actually negotiate in good faith,” he added.
Tehran said Monday it was considering building two more uranium enrichment plants concealed inside mountains to protect them from air strikes.
—Agencies