Top Iranian official: Iran won't talk to 'Zionist' Obama

A representative of Iran's supreme leader said the installation of U.S. President Barack Obama did not mean Tehran's ties with Washington would change, the Fars news agency reported Wednesday.

"The Zionists brought Obama to power to help America pass through its current challenges," said the representative to the Revolutionary Guards in northwestern Zanjan province, cleric Hojjatoleslam Ali Maboudi.

"Any government has 'red lines' and our 'red lines' are rejecting the arrogant policies of America and the Zionist regime."

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has ultimate authority over policy in the Islamic Republic, has yet to comment on Obama's presidency or his offer to extend a hand of peace if the Islamic Republic would only "unclench its fist."

The leader has representatives to many institutions and regions whose comments can give an indication of views prevalent among Iran's leadership.

"Opposing the Zionist regime and defending oppressed people are among the pillars of the Islamic revolution and Iran and America's relationship will not change because of Obama taking office," Maboudi said.

Iran does not recognize Israel's right to exist and officials often refer to the country as the "Zionist regime."

Officials reflect the view that the United States and Israel have such close ties as to render their policies indistinguishable.

The United States has long accused Iran of trying to undermine peace in the Middle East by backing what Washington calls "terrorist" groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.

Tehran says the groups aim to free Palestinians from Israeli occupation.