Iran says US military strikes 'psychological warfare'
Iran branded as "psychological warfare" media reports that the US military was planning air strikes to pressure Tehran to abandon its controversial nuclear program.
"We regard that (planning for air strikes) as psychological warfare stemming from America's anger and helplessness," foreign ministry spokesman Hamid Reza Asefi told reporters.
US publications reported over the weekend that the White House is studying options for military strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities.
Citing unnamed US officials and independent analysts, the Washington Post said no attack appears likely in the short term, but officials are preparing for it as a possible option and using the threat to convince Iranians of the seriousness of their intentions.
Pentagon and CIA planners have been exploring possible targets, such as Iran's underground uranium enrichment plant at Natanz and its uranium conversion facility at Isfahan, the report said.
In its April 17 edition, the New Yorker magazine said the US government is planning a massive bombing campaign against Iran, including the use of bunker-buster nuclear bombs to destroy suspected nuclear weapons facilities like Natanz.
Iran claims that its nuclear programme has only peaceful purposes, while the West is convinced Tehran wants to manufacture nuclear weapons.
A non-binding United Nations Security Council statement, passed on March 29, requires Iran to suspend its uranium enrichment-related activities by the end of April.
AFP
