Powers turn up heat on Iran over nuclear programme

PARIS - World powers put Iran on a collision course with the United Nations yesterday, asking the Security Council to intervene after Tehran failed to respond to incentives aimed at defusing a standoff over its nuclear programme.

The decision to send the Iran dossier back to the UN was taken by the foreign ministers of the five permanent Security Council members - the United States, France, Britain, Russia, China - plus Germany.

It could lead to economic sanctions but does not open the door on possible military action.

Iran was referred to the Security Council earlier this year, but work on a resolution was delayed to allow Tehran time to respond to the incentives.

- REUTERS