US troops detained two Iranians

Baghdad: Two Iranians who are in Iraq at the invitation of President Jalal Talabani have been apprehended by US troops, a presidential spokesman said Monday.

Talabani's media adviser, Hiwa Osman, confirmed that the two Iranians had been detained by US forces, adding, “The president is unhappy about it.''

The US military, who suspects Iran of supplying money, weapons components and training to Shiite militia in Iraq, had no immediate comment.

Iran insists it links with Iraqi Shiites is only political and religious.

Last month Talabani held talks with Iranian government officials, seeking their support in quelling the escalating sectarian violence in the war-torn country.