Iran presidential candidate slams Ahmadinejad

[February 12, 2009]  TEHRAN, Iran (AP) -- The main challenger in Iran's presidential race has criticized President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad over the country's international isolation.

Mohammad Khatami's Web site quotes him as saying the "current situation (in Iran) is not desirable."

Khatami warns that if it continues, the country's "social capital and international reputation will be damaged even more."

The remarks were reported late Wednesday. Khatami told a group of supporters that Iran needs an active diplomacy to decrease "international pressures and isolation."

It was the first time he spoke about president since announcing his candidacy for the June elections last weekend. The reformist cleric is a serious challenge to Ahmadinejad.

[Associated Press]

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