DES MOINES — A coalition of Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders is calling for American and Iranian authorities to open negotiations and stop planning for war.

The statement, "A Pax on Both Our Houses" says the war in Iraq demonstrates how war wastes lives and resources, and violates human rights. "Pax" is Latin for "peace."

Organizers also argue that U.S. intelligence reports that concluded Iran had shut down its nuclear weapons program is further evidence that armed conflict should be avoided.

The statement was released in Iowa to draw attention to Iran during the campaign. Voters will choose Democratic and Republican presidential nominees in caucuses Jan. 3.

BLACK RIVER FALLS, Wis. — An Amish man could be barred from living in his home after a judge agreed with state officials that he violated several codes in constructing the building.The case is one of several that have arisen over the steady settlement of Amish families in Jackson County, in west-central Wisconsin, who are lured by the privacy and the land's agricultural potential.Most of the newcomers have complied with the state-mandated Uniform Building Code, but members of one group have said their religion prevents them from entering into contracts with non-Amish, officials say.Six Amish residents in Jackson County were accused of ignoring the codes, with one complaint eventually dropped. Daniel S. Borntreger was the first to be found in violation by a judge.Borntreger, of Franklin, is scheduled to appear in court Jan. 3 to learn his punishment. He faces fines ranging from $25 to $1,000 for every day he remains in violation.