TEHRAN, Iran: November 8, 2008 - Iran criticized President-elect Barack Obama for the first time Saturday, saying the world needs more than cosmetic changes in American foreign policy.
The criticism from Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani followed Obama's comment Friday that it is "unacceptable" for Iran to develop nuclear weapons and there should be a concerted international effort to prevent it.
"Obama can understand that strategic changes in (American) policy are required, not just cosmetic changes," Larijani told state television.
"This is a step in the wrong direction," he added. "If Americans want to change their situation in the region, they need to send good signals."
Iran has denied allegations that its nuclear program is aimed at producing weapons. More >>>
