Iran Rejects Nuclear Incentives

Iran has rejected an international package of incentives to stop its nuclear enrichment program, and Tehran won’t accept any proposal of that kind, the foreign ministry said today. “Those incentives that violate the Iranian nation's right in any form will not be reviewed,” a spokesman said, referring to the pursuit of nuclear technology. But foreign diplomats are skeptical, Reuters reports.

One EU diplomat says Iran is merely posturing: “This looks like an early reaction that may not be particularly serious.” The plan would reportedly help Iran build a civil nuclear program but would forbid enrichment activities the West believes are aimed at making weapons. Iran, which contends enrichment is a national right, is in separate, friendly talks with Russia concerning its program. (More Iran stories.)