U.S. warns Iran over Iraq bomb attacks, Rice says-(bombings all around)
Reuters ^ | 10/16/05 | na
 

LONDON, Oct 16 (Reuters) - The United States has issued a stern warning to Iran over the Islamic republic's possible involvement in helping insurgent bomb attacks in Iraq, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said on Sunday.

Washington has backed accusations from its closest ally Britain that there is evidence insurgents laying roadside bombs, or improvised explosive devices (IEDs), in southern Iraq might be using sophisticated technology linked to neighbouring Iran.

The United States has no formal diplomatic ties with Iran but occasionally talks to the government through Swiss diplomats in Tehran or through the Islamic republic's ambassador to the United Nations in New York.

"We have -- let me emphasize -- we have had limited contacts with the Iranians when it is necessary," Rice told reporters in London ahead of talks with British Prime Minister Tony Blair on curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions.

"We have tried to deliver a message ... about this issue of IEDS in southern Iraq," she said.

"We have channels with which to do it. But we use them sternly and pretty specifically to deliver messages."

Her remarks underscore how Britain's accusations have fuelled tensions with Iran at a time when London and Washington are seeking U.N. action over Tehran's nuclear programme.

This month, Blair said there was evidence which linked Iran or its Lebanese Hizbollah allies to roadside bombs that often target British troops, although he added there was no proof.

He said the bombs may have been an attempt by Iran to intimidate Britain over its tough stance in talks to limit Tehran's use of nuclear technology.