US considers talking to Iran over Iraq crisis, says official

Iraqis walks along a street in the town of Bartala, on June 15, 2012, east of the northern city of Mosul, as some Iraqi police and security remain in the town to protect the local churches and community. The Obama administration is mulling possible d
Iraqis walks along a street in the town of Bartala, on June 15, 2012, east of the northern city of Mosul, as some Iraqi police and security remain in the town to protect the local churches and community. The Obama administration is mulling possible discussions with Iran over the mounting security crisis in Iraq. -- PHOTO: AFP

WASHINGTON (REUTERS) - The Obama administration is mulling possible discussions with Iran over the mounting security crisis in Iraq, a senior official said, in what would mark a major step in US engagement with its longtime adversary.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said on Sunday that the United States was considering talking to Iran about Iraq, where the government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is seeking to repel a stunning advance by Sunni militants who have seized several cities.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that Washington was preparing to open a direct dialogue with Iran on security in Iraq and ways to push back the militants.

US officials are also heading into a round of talks this week between world powers and Iran over Teheran's nuclear programme.

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