Iran Foreign Minister dismisses threat of attack by US, Israel

Iran's Foreign Minister says the nation will resort to military action if it comes under attack. Manouchehr Mottaki made the remarks at a United Nations news conference on Wednesday. He also says Iran will soon reply to a package of incentives offered by six major countries.

Tensions have flared in recent days amid reports Israel is planning a possible strike against Iran's nuclear facilities.

But Mottaki says speculation about the war is only "psychological".

He also shrugged off the possibility of an American attack, saying the US economy is suffering and the country is bogged down in wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

But he hinted that Iran would use force if provoked.

Mottaki said, "When we speak of the independence of the country, and the fact that we will defend it, uphold it, as well as our national security, we mean against offenses and attacks that may come against our independence. If the nature of the offenses changes and takes on a military shape and form, then the military will speak in its own language. Our preference is that the environment remains political and diplomatic so that we can find diplomatic solutions as a priority."

Mottaki also said his country will soon reply to the package of incentives recently offered by six countries. The package was delivered by European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana on behalf of France, Britain, Russia, China, the United States and Germany.

Mottaki says the move is creating a new atmosphere and Iran will look seriously at the issues raised.