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Iran Nukes Raise 'Serious Concern' for UN

Watchdog group says Tehran has failed to explain its programs

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 22, 2008 3:35 PM CST

(Newser) – The UN’s nuclear overseers warned today that Iran hadn’t explained various intelligence reports suggesting it was making atomic weapons and called the matter a “serious concern.” Tehran dismissed the intelligence data as "fabricated" and provided unacceptable answers, the UN report says. The developments could lead to further UN sanctions against the country as early as next week, Reuters reports.

"We are disappointed with Iran's continued failure to comply with its U.N. Security Council obligations," said a US official. The report noted that Iran had cooperated on other matters, and Tehran celebrated the findings as a victory. “This report showed that our activities are peaceful,” said one nuclear official. The country claims its program exists purely to generate power.

Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili, listens to a question during a press conference, in Tehran, Iran, Friday, Feb. 22, 2008. Jalili welcomed a report released by the U.N. nuclear watchdog Friday on Tehran's atomic program, saying it provided more evidence vindicating the country. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)
Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili, listens to a question during a press conference, in Tehran, Iran, Friday, Feb. 22, 2008. Jalili welcomed a report released by the U.N. nuclear watchdog Friday...   (Associated Press)
Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili, talks with media during a press conference, in Tehran, Iran, Friday, Feb. 22, 2008. Jalili welcomed a report released by the U.N. nuclear watchdog Friday on Tehran's atomic program, saying it provided more evidence vindicating the country. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)
Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili, talks with media during a press conference, in Tehran, Iran, Friday, Feb. 22, 2008. Jalili welcomed a report released by the U.N. nuclear watchdog Friday on...   (Associated Press)
International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Mohamed El Baradei is seen during his meeting with South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun at the Presidential Blue House in Seoul on Wednesday July 11, 2007. El Baradei said today that Iran must allow unplanned inspections of its nuclear program. (AP Photo/Jo Yong-Hak, POOL)
International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Mohamed El Baradei is seen during his meeting with South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun at the Presidential Blue House in Seoul on Wednesday July 11,...   (Associated Press)
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