"I don't see any circumstances in which military action would be justified against Iran full stop," Straw told BBC radio amid speculation that reelected US President George W. Bush may be more hawkish over the Islamic republic.

Asked if the world would support a US bombing campaign against Iran, Straw said: "Not only is that inconceivable, but I think the prospect of itmilitary action) happening is inconceivable."

"The United States government have operated internationally and with international cooperation in respect of Iran," he said.

The international community was committed to resolving the situation "contructively", he added.

He was speaking as Iranian and EU representatives, led by Britain, France and Germany, continued talks in Paris aimed at breaking a deadlock with Iran on suspending uranium enrichment.

The United States, which is keeping a low profile on the European initiative, is concerned that Iran is secretly developing nuclear weapons.

The European nations have so far, in talks that started in October, said Iran must indefinitely suspend uranium enrichment, but Tehran insists that its right to enrichment cannot be called into question by an indefinite suspension.

Europe's three major powers are offering Iran nuclear technology, including access to nuclear fuel, increased trade and help with Tehran's regional security concerns if the Islamic Republic halts enrichment.