US could open diplomatic outpost in Tehran: US official

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States is considering opening an interests section staffed by US diplomats in Tehran, similar to the one it has in Cuba, a State Department official said Monday.

"I know it has been discussed," a State Department official said Monday, speaking on condition of anonymity. "I don't know how active it is."

"I don't think there is anybody out there pushing that right now," the official added.

The Washington Post reported Monday that the US government is debating the move, which would create a US presence in Iran without formal resumption of diplomatic relations, severed in 1980 after 52 US diplomats were taken hostage in Tehran.

The Post said a decision could come in a matter of weeks.

Officially, no-one confirmed the...