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Israeli warning over nuclear Iran

Israel Materials 4 June 2008 11:43 (UTC +04:00)

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has said Iran's nuclear programme must be stopped by "all possible means", reported BBC.

Speaking during a visit to Washington, he said Tehran must be made to see it would suffer devastating repercussions if it pursued atomic weapons.

The US and others have accused Iran of building a nuclear arms capability. Tehran says its programme is peaceful.

Mr Olmert's US visit comes as he faces pressure at home over corruption allegations, which he denies.

"The Iranian threat must be stopped by all possible means," Mr Olmert said in his speech before the American Israel Public Affairs Committee - a lobby group.

"The international community has a duty and responsibility to clarify to Iran, through drastic measures, that the repercussions of their continued pursuit of nuclear weapons will be devastating," he added.

Correspondents say it was the Israeli prime minister's strongest warning yet to Iran.

Mr Olmert's comments followed a speech by Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who insisted his country would not make nuclear weapons but would continue its civilian nuclear programme.

Earlier, the UN's nuclear watchdog said Iran's alleged research into warheads was of "serious concern", urging the country to give "full disclosure" on its atomic work.

Mr Olmert is expected to discuss the Iranian nuclear issue in talks with President George W Bush on Wednesday.

At home Mr Olmert has faced calls that he step down over allegations of corruption.

The prime minister has been accused of taking $500,000 (£250,000) in bribes or illegal campaign donations, accusations that he denies.

He has not been charged, but says he would resign if indicted.

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