U.S. 'Digs Its Own Hole'; Iran's security chief talks tough on its disputes with the West, and issues a warning on U.N. sanctions.(Ali Larijani)(Interview)

Byline: Michael Hirsch

Ali Larijani, chairman of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, directs his country's defense and security policy and also serves as Iran's top nuclear negotiator. He addressed the controversy over Iran's nuclear program--and U.S. allegations that Iran is providing weapons to Shiite militias in Iraq and to the resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan--in an interview with NEWSWEEK's Michael Hirsh. Excerpts:

HIRSH: The Americans and Europeans say that if Iran doesn't suspend uranium enrichment, they will push for a third U.N. resolution on more sanctions. What will Iran's response be?

Have the past two resolutions impeded our activities? They can pass another resolution, and we would make another, longer stride. Therefore they cannot solve the Iranian nuclear program. There is a Persian proverb that says if you can open up a knot with your fingers, why should you open it with your teeth?

You said a "longer stride" would be taken by Iran. What would that be?

It will be announced in time.

U.S. officials have alleged that Iran is supplying Shiite militias in Iraq, and the Taliban in Afghanistan, with training and weapons. True?