Washington, Aug 6 (DPA) The United States said Wednesday that it would be willing to engage the Iranian government led by President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who was sworn in for a second term Wednesday despite questions about his recent re-election.

'We will deal with whatever government there is in Iran, should that government be willing to engage with the United States,' State Department deputy spokesman Robert Wood said.

The administration of President Barack Obama wants to explore holding direct talks with Tehran to address a host of regional issues, most notably Iran's alleged desire to obtain nuclear weapons.

Ahmadinejad won a disputed June 12 election, the outcome of which was challenged by thousands of protesters who have taken to the streets since to argue the result was fraudulent.

Wood said the demonstrations by supporters of Ahmadinejad's challenger, reformist Mir-Hossein Moussavi who has refused to accept his opponent's victory, raised questions about faith in Ahmadinejad's leadership.