ATHENS, February 6 (RIA Novosti) - The resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue remains within the competence of the UN's nuclear watchdog, Russia's foreign minister said Monday.

"The [UN] Security Council will be informed, but will take no steps," Sergei Lavrov said.

Responding to comments made by U.S. President Bush on the potential use of force against Iran, Lavrov said this could only be done on the basis of UN decisions.