Iran defiant as world awaits response on nuclear package

Iran is set to respond to an international deal to suspend nuclear work but Washington was already baying for UN sanctions in the face of a defiant rejection from the regime's supreme leader. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the last word on all key policy issues, said Iran was determined to press ahead with its nuclear programme despite an August 31 UN Security Council deadline to suspend uranium enrichment. Officials said Iran would give a comprehensive response Tuesday to the package offered by world powers but wanted to address "ambiguities" over its right to nuclear technology under the Non-Proliferation Treaty. "The Islamic republic has made up its mind and on the nuclear programme and other issues it will continue on its path with strength, with God's help," Khamenei was quoted as saying on state television Monday. "Arrogant powers, led by the United States, are fearful of progress of Islamic countries in various dimensions," he said.