Iran offered aid to U.S. troops?

WASHINGTON, OCT. 17. The U.S. has confirmed that Iran had offered humanitarian aid to U.S. troops should they need help in its territory as U.S. forces pursue the war on terrorism.

Washington and Teheran have had no diplomatic ties but the secret offer was relayed to Washington via Swiss diplomats who represent the U.S. interests in Iran, according to the New York Times.

The newspaper said the U.S. in return promised Teheran that Iranian territorial integrity would be respected including its airspace for the duration of the military campaign against Afghanistan's ruling Taliban militia and its guest, Osama bin Laden, wanted for the September 11 terrorist attacks on the U.S.

A U.S. State Department spokesman did not confirm that any deal had been reached with Teheran. However, he did say that Iran had agreed to look after U.S. military personnel in case of need.

``We indicated that if this event were to occur, we would be looking for this type of reaction from them and they indicated yes, that's fine,'' he told reporters.

``And a positive Iranian role in this effort would obviously contribute to our goal of promoting peace and stability, and increasing our security.'' He ruled out suggestions that in return Washington was prepared to tone down its criticism of Iranian support for the Lebanese Hezbollah movement.

- AFP

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