U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says U.S. policy concerning Iran's pursuit of dangerous nuclear technologies has been clear and consistent. The U.S., along with the other P5+1 members, Britain, China, France, Russia and Germany, has offered Iran a path forward to better relations. Iran can move down this path by suspending its uranium–enrichment program, and in return, receive a series of economic and trade benefits.

The P5+1 members have also stated to Iran that its continuing defiance of international demands to cease its enrichment activities will result in further sanctions and greater isolation.

In recent press interviews, Secretary of State Rice emphasized that the Iranian government seeks to mislead the Iranian people into believing that the U.S. wants to deny Iran civil nuclear power.

According to Secretary Rice, the negotiations that would result from Iran's decision to suspend its uranium enrichment and other related proliferation activities, would allow Iran to receive cooperation and technical assistance in the use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

To obtain this assistance, Iran must suspend its uranium enrichment and proliferation activities to build confidence with the international community. Secretary Rice noted that the suspension requirement is a condition set not by the United States, but by the United Nations Security Council.

Once Iran has complied with the requirement, said Secretary of State Rice, the U.S. is "ready to sit down and talk with Iran about anything at any time, at any place."