In a major speech in Washington, Vice President Dick Cheney issued a new series of warnings to Iran on Sunday over its alleged nuclear program and its involvement in Iraq.

Dick Cheney: “The Iranian regime needs to know that if it stays on its present course, the international community is prepared to impose serious consequences. The United States joins other nations in sending a clear message: We will not allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”

Vice President Cheney also accused Iran of having a direct role in the deaths of U.S. soldiers in Iraq. Cheney’s comments came just days after President Bush warned that World War III could begin if Iran obtains the knowledge necessary to make a nuclear weapon. Former U.S. Middle East envoy Dennis Ross said Cheney and Bush’s comments mark a significant escalation of rhetoric against Iran.