(VOVworld) - The US announced on Monday it would refuse to link Iran's cooperation in fighting Islamic State forces (IS) to Iran controversial nuclear program.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest

Iran is ready to work with the US and its allies to combat IS but would like more flexibility on Iran's uranium enrichment program in exchange. Asked to respond, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said the idea was unacceptable, stating that the effort by world powers, including the US, to persuade Iran to give up its nuclear program is "entirely separate" from President Barack Obama's attempts to build a coalition against IS. He added the US would not coordinate the coalition's military activities with the Iranians and would not share intelligence on IS with Iran.