The New Nation - Internet Edition

Reuters, Tehran

Iran's president said that even before its enemies "get their hands on the trigger" the country's military would cut them off, media said on Sunday, in a growing war of words that has intensified Middle East tension.

But President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad also suggested Iran would consider any proposal by the United States for a U.S. interests section in the Islamic Republic, if it was forthcoming. The two countries have not had diplomatic ties since 1980.

Amid the mounting tensions over Iran's nuclear plans, U.S. media have reported that the State Department was considering opening an interests section that could mean some U.S. diplomats returning to Tehran but operating under another country's flag.

U.S. officials have said there are no concrete plans on such an idea. But Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said this month at the United Nations in New York that any such proposal, if made, could be examined.

"Iran favours actions that would result in enhanced ties between nations of the world," Ahmadinejad said when asked about the issue, according to the website of state-run Press TV.

"We are ready to consider all proposals in this regard."

The Swiss embassy currently handles U.S. interests in Iran but there are no U.S. diplomats working there.

But Ahmadinejad also echoed comments by other Iranian officials and commanders that Iran's response to any attack over its disputed nuclear programme would be quick.

"Before the enemies get their hands on the trigger the armed forces will cut off their hands," the official IRNA news agency quoted Ahmadinejad as telling reporters.

The United States has refused to rule out military action if diplomacy fails to resolve the nuclear row. Washington says Tehran is seeking nuclear arms, a charge Iran denies, saying its aim is to generate electricity.

Police can do good job with help of people: IGP

UNB, Rangpur

Inspector General of Police Nur Mohammad on Sunday said police can do good job if they get cooperation from the people.

"It is not possible for the police alone to ensure wellbeing of the people. It needs public support," he said at a meeting with the members of police forces as chief guest at the Rangpur Police Community Hall.

RAB Director General Hassan Mahmud Khan, DIG of Rajshahi Range Police Mokhlesur Rahman and Deputy Commissioner of Rangpur Khandaker Atiar Rahman, among others attended the meeting, chaired by Police Super Hasib Aziz.

The IGP said police could not discharge their duties properly in the past due to interference by various quarters. But now the administration is totally free from any pressure under the present government.

The police administration has now been built up to provide service to the people, not to rule over them, he added.

The IGP said: "Now it is time for police reform and we have already started the process ourselves. Nobody imposed it on us."

He asked police to be accountable to the people, saying that people are compelled to go to them for help in different situations and there is no alternative to it.