Pessimism Over Iran's Nukes

Agence France-Presse:

The European Union has lost hope that Iran will again suspend its uranium conversion activities or resume talks on its controversial nuclear program, a senior EU diplomat said overnight.

The diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that Iran's decision to reject EU incentives, aimed at ensuring it does not develop nuclear weapons, and resume conversion work meant that the EU's role had virtually ended.

"If the Iranians changed their minds and decided to restart the suspension or discuss restarting the suspension, I think that would be very interesting, but that doesn't seem remotely likely," he said.

The official said the EU had been trying through negotiations since 2003 to convince Iran to maintain a civilian nuclear program but that "the bracket we have opened has been closed."

"The logical step is for this to be reported to the (UN) Security Council."