For the first time in almost four years, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has voted in favour of a resolution against Iran.

The United Nations nuclear watchdog has demanded that Iran halt construction of a newly-revealed uranium enrichment plant. The vote, passed by 25 of the 35 members, was denounced by Iran whose ambassador to the IAEA said it would "jeopardise the conducive environment" for dialogue.

In a sign of Tehran's diplomatic isolation, China and Russian joined Western nations in calling on Iran to freeze the project until it reveals the purpose of the plant and the chronology of its construction. Only Venezuela, Malaysia and Cuba voted against the resolution. There were six abstentions.

Iran has been enriching uranium at a bigger plant in Natanz for several years, in defiance of UN sanctions to halt all such activity. Last September, it emerged that construction of a second facility was underway near the ancient city of Qom.

The revelation deepened fears about Iran's nuclear ambitions. Tehran insists its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes and to supply energy. But is has failed to agree to a US-backed plan under which its low-enriched uranium would be shipped overseas for further processing into fuel.