Iran to US: We're Ready for Talks With 'Respect'

Stalemate seen as Ahmadinejad refuses more negotiations

(NEWSER) - Iran looks set to face another round of international sanctions as nuclear talks have reached an impasse and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad refuses to discuss a compromise, reports the Guardian. Mohamed ElBaradei, who heads the UN nuclear watchdog, said today Iran has not suspended enrichment activities and continues to be uncooperative with the agency. "There is stalemate," the Nobel Prize winner said. More»

(AP) - Iran's president said today he is willing to build a new relationship with the United States, adding that he is preparing new proposals aimed at breaking the impasse with the West over his country's nuclear program. "The Iranian nation is a generous nation," Mahmoud Ahmadinejad told a rally. "It may forget the past and start a new era, but any country speaking on the basis of selfishness will get the same response the Iranian nation gave to Mr. Bush." More»

(NEWSER) - Two of Iran’s most bitter soccer rivals may soon become tools of diplomacy, the Guardian reports. Persepolis and Esteghlal Tehran are planning US tours, to culminate in a match, likely in a city with a large Iranian population. “For holding several friendly matches, including one against the Tehran Esteghlal team, Persepolis will travel to the US,” Persepolis’ manager told a state media outlet. More»

(NEWSER) - While Barack Obama is not backing away from his campaign pledge to meet Iran without preconditions, the new administration is hoping Tehran will take the first step toward détente, Politico reports. “If countries like Iran are willing to unclench their fist, they will find an extended hand from us,” Obama said in his Arab TV interview, putting the ball squarely in Tehran’s court. Hillary Clinton followed up by saying, it's "really up to them." More»

Development could lead to direct talks between old enemies

(NEWSER) - Barack Obama is moving his efforts to improve relations with Iran beyond mere speech-making, the Guardian reports. The State Department is drafting a letter to Iranian leaders to assure them the US is not looking to overthrow the curent regime, just change its behavior. The letter—a response to a congratulatory letter sent by President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad—could pave the way toward face-to-face talks. More»