Israel Matzav: Iran rejects US proposal for Turkish mediation

Iran rejects US proposal for Turkish mediation

Iran has rejected an American proposal that would have had Turkey mediate discussions over its nuclear weapons program.

A spokesman for the Iranian foreign ministry responded to the proposals by saying the Iranian stance on the nuclear issue was quite clear and that there was, therefore, no need for a third party to step in and mediate.

"We have clearly expressed our view on the nuclear issue," Ramin Mehmanparast told reporters in Tehran. "We don't think our transparent view needs to be interpreted by other countries."

His comments came one day after Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan met US President Barak Obama at the White House. Obama said he thought Ankara could be an "important player" in persuading Tehran to give up its nuclear ambitions.

Erdogan said his country was willing to mediate between Iran and the West, but that is clearly not what Tehran wants.

"Many countries have an interest in mediating, including Turkey, but Iran's need for civil nuclear technology is clear and its stance irrevocable," the Iranian foreign ministry spokesman added.

It's time for the Obumbler to stop making fawning proposals like this one. It's time for him to understand that the answer is "no" and to act accordingly. Why can't he take "no" for an answer?

What could go wrong?

Israel Matzav: Iran rejects US proposal for Turkish mediation