US Vice President Dick Cheney reiterated on Sunday that Iran will face "serious consequences" if it continues to enrich uranium, a key substance for the making of nuclear weapons.

"The Iranian regime needs to know that if it stays on its present course, the international community is prepared to impose serious consequences," Cheney said in a speech to the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

Labeling Iran as "a growing obstacle to peace," Cheney said that "the United States joins other nations in sending a clear message: We will not allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon."

Washington accuses Iran of trying to develop nuclear weapons under the cover of a civilian nuclear program. While threatening to keep all options including military resort, the White House said that it is focusing on diplomatic means to try to resolve Iran's nuclear issue.

Iran, which always denies US charges, insists that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only.

(Xinhua News Agency October 22, 2007)