UK premier criticized over Iran 'gaffe'

British Prime Minister David Cameron is under fire in the UK for making a false statement regarding Iran's nuclear program, Press TV reported.

The Tory leader came under criticism after he said Turkey could be an important influence in helping solve problems "like the Middle East peace process and the fact that Iran has got a nuclear weapon."

Labour former Europe minister Chris Bryant scuffed at the premier saying, "He is increasingly getting a reputation for being a foreign policy klutz, with two right feet, both of them firmly planted in his mouth," AFP reported.

"This is less of a hiccup, more of a dangerous habit," Bryant added.

Cameron's comments come while the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has repeatedly verified the non-diversion of declared nuclear material in Iran.

Downing Street rejected the criticism against the premier, claiming, "It is perfectly clear that he is talking about the pursuit of a nuclear weapon."

The West accuses Iran of pursuing a covert military nuclear program. Tehran, however, denies the allegations, saying that an IAEA member and a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty it has the right to peaceful nuclear technology.