The Iraqi government on Monday called for "explanations" from the U.N. nuclear watchdog on a reported plan for Iran to build a nuclear reactor near the border between the two countries.
"The Iraqi government has asked for explanations from the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) on information concerning the construction of an Iranian nuclear reactor near the border with Iraq," it said.
"Iraq will take the necessary diplomatic measures, in cooperation with the IAEA, to suppress the dangers and complications arising from the construction of nuclear installations near the border," it said in an official statement.
Iran, which is embroiled in a showdown with the West over its disputed nuclear program the U.S. suspects is a cover to build an atomic bomb, announced on Nov. 29 it plans to build 10 new uranium enrichment plants.
Iran insists the program is purely peaceful and designed to meet the Islamic republic's growing energy needs.