The U.S. - Iran relations about nuclear issue look like a cat-and-mouse game, while the UN tries to persuade both sides to come to agreement. After long-term negotiations, France, Germany and the UK are comparatively satisfied with Iran’s suspension of uranium enrichment and its efforts to work out a program of peaceful nuclear usage.

The US takes a different view. State department spokesman Adam Ereli said the issue was not what the US would do, but what Iran would do, to allay the international concerns. The US is sure about Iran’s plans of nuclear weapons development. Iran, in its turn, demands assurances of US and Israeli non-aggression.

Speaking at a nuclear energy conference in Paris on Monday, Mr ElBaradei, head of the International Agency for Atomic Energy (IAEA), expressed hope that the conclusion of the negotiations between three European states and Tehran would bring good for both sides: for Iran - allowance to use nuclear energy, and for the international community - calmness about Iran’s nuclear purposes. Otherwise, the UN would have to use sanctions.

The only compromise sign from the US was the announcement of George W Bush 10 days ago about their intention to extend economic promotions to Iran. Iran seems to take it for granted.

"A discussion of regional security is very much not only a European affair," said Mr ElBaradei. But still, his words of are hanging in the air, having no target.