Iran has finally joined the nuclear community in a more meaningful capacity which, whilst expected, took everyone by surprise by its timing. What we find surprising are the type of hostile comments and sabre rattling by the US and its allies. How can a nation that has abused nuclear technology in the past accuse others of being incapable of responsible use of it? Is it not tragically ironic that the nations that wage illegal wars and ignore UN law are trying to manipulate the UN to their own advantage and are asking for strict a swift action against Iran.

The Guardian outlines the achievement of Iran and mentions some of the responses received from people in power from around the world. It definitely makes for some interesting reading.

Ms Rice also telephoned IAEA head Mohamed ElBaradei to ask him to reinforce demands that Iran comply with its nonproliferation requirements when he holds talks in Tehran on Friday.

``This is not a question of Iran's right to civil nuclear power,'' she said. ``This is a question of ... the world does not believe that Iran should have the capability and the technology that could lead to a nuclear weapon.''

Rice did not call for an emergency meeting of the Council, saying it should consider action after receiving an IAEA report by April 28. She did not elaborate on what measures the United States would support, but economic and political sanctions are under consideration.

In Berlin, Chancellor Angela Merkel's government said Iran's announcement was cause for concern.

``It is another step in the wrong direction by Iran,'' German government spokesman Thomas Steg said.

French government spokesman Jean-Francois Cope urged Iran ``to respect its obligations'' and stop nuclear activities.

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said he was ``seriously concerned'' by Ahmadinejad's announcement.

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