Rice warns Iran: US will defend Israel

8220;We take very very strongly our obligations to help our allies defend themselves and no one should be confused about that,8221; she said.

Her comments came after Iran test-fired its Shahab-3 missile amid growing fears that the standoff over its contested nuclear drive 8212; which the West says aims to develop atomic weapons 8212; could lead to war.

Rice also said Iran had been offered incentives in negotiations with Western states aimed at ending the stand-off over the country8217;s nuclear intentions and called for a positive response from Tehran.

8220;We have also laid out a path where Iran could enter the international community in a positive way,8221; the top diplomat said.