Ex-Chief of International Atomic Energy Agency calls for action

Tensions between the US and Iran are rising again after Donald Trump's harsh statement threatening Tehran with "real hell" if it does not agree to a peace deal within 48 hours.

The former head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Muhammad Baradei, responded to these words by calling on the Gulf countries to actively address the situation.

Baradei also appealed to the wider international community, including the UN, China, Russia and France, to prevent escalation. His comments hint at fears that the conflict could destabilise the entire region.

However, it also reminds that Baradei has had a history of strained relations with Washington, which has seen him as too soft on Iran.

(tasr, mja)