“It is better for the US president to refrain from making ill-considered, non-technical and irrational comments,” state television quoted foreign ministry spokesman Mohammad Ali Hosseini as saying.
In an expression of support for Britain’s efforts to secure the release of its service personnel Saturday, Bush referred to the 15 as “hostages” to the anger of Iran.
“It’s inexcusable behaviour and I strongly support the Blair government’s attempts to resolve this peacefully,” he said.
“The Iranians must give back the hostages.”