BARACK Obama made an unprecedented video appeal to Iran today, offering a "new beginning" of diplomatic engagement with one of America's long-term enemies.

The White House released the video to Middle Eastern broadcasters to coincide with spring celebrations in Iran.

Mr Obama said: "My administration is now committed to diplomacy that addresses the full range of issues before us, and to pursuing constructive ties."

The president made his biggest effort yet to offer an olive branch to Tehran, which has been locked in disputes with Washington over its nuclear ambitions and support for militant Islamist groups.

He told Iran's people and leaders that the US wanted to engage with their country and end decades of strained relationship, but not unless Iranian officials stopped making threats.

Mr Obama said: "In this season of new beginnings I would like to speak clearly to Iran's leaders. We have serious differences that have grown over time."

The video, which had Farsi subtitles, was timed for the Iranian holiday of Nowruz, meaning "new day", which marks the arrival of spring.

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