Iraq takes US threat bogey to Iran

‘‘How is Saddam?’’ Khatami asked. ‘‘Fine, thank you.’’ replied Sabri and posed with smiles for photographs.

‘‘The United States behaviour is not just a threat to us, but a threat to the Islamic world,’’ Sabri said ahead of the talks.

But the smiles were gone after the one-hour meeting and Iranian officials barred cameramen and photographers from picturing the ashen-faced pair as they emerged from the talks.

In contrast to Iranian hardliners who have stepped up their anti-US rhetoric in recent weeks, Iran’s Vice President Mohammad Ali Abtahi, a close Khatami aide has said Iran would prefer anyone ruling Iraq to Saddam.

Iranian newspapers also wondered what could be achieved by Sabri’s visit. ‘‘Don’t invest in losers,’’ said a headline in Iran News. Sabri’s visit coincides with that of Kuwaiti Defence Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, due to arrive in Tehran later on Sunday. (Reuters)