Direct talks between arch foes, Israel and Iran, in 30 years, were held under the auspices of an initiative of Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

According to Israeli sources, a representative of the Israel Atomic Energy Commission and a senior Iranian official met on 29 and 30 September in secret to discuss proposals to declare the Middle East a nuclear-free zone. It is believed to be the first direct meeting between officials of the two countries since the fall of the Shah in 1979.

Nuke Arms Danger, placard courtesy of Internet

The meeting, which taken place with some assistance of the International Commission on Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament, was also attended by European and United States officials, and representatives of a number of Arab countries.