Islamists burn French flag outside Tehran embassy

AFP - World News:

A group of some 30 Islamist protesters Tuesday burnt the French flag outside France's embassy in Tehran in protest at its stand on Iran's controversial nuclear programme.

"England, France, two Satans, two Lucifers," chanted the demonstrators, as security agents tried in vain to stop the flag burning.

"Death to France, death to England, death to Germany," they cried. READ MORE

The three European countries have been negotiating with Iran on behalf of the EU to keep its uranium-enrichment activities suspended in return for a package of incentives.

At their initiative, the International Atomic Energy Agency last week urged Iran to suspend all such activities. The Islamic republic could now be referred to the UN Security Council for possible sanctions.

The British embassy was pelted with stones and tomatoes on Sunday by some 300 Islamist students.

In a statement addressed to French President Jacques Chirac, the protesters condemned what they called the West's "double standards" when it came to dealing with the Muslim world.

"Any action which would harm the legitimate rights of Iran will be met with a decisive response," it warned.

Iran is at loggerheads with the international community over its nuclear programme after resuming the uranium conversion activities, ending a nine-month freeze agreed on during talks with the Europeans.