However, if the United States "were to change its attitude, we are not people who are obstinate toward anyone," he said in his first remarks on the matter since the December 26 quake and subsequent US overtures toward rapprochement.

In a speech broadcast on television, Khamenei said Iran's leaders "had to accept (the US aid) because it was destined for the people.

"But what does that have to do with political questions and the profound, constant and fundamental hostility of the American policy of oppression of the Iranian people, our country and the interests of a well-loved regime," he asked.

The massive earthquake virtually levelled the southeastern town of Bam, killing some 30,000 people, injuring about 30,000 more and leaving an estimated 75,000 people homeless.

TERRA.WIRE