Wednesday, July 30, 2008

So Where Does The US Stand On An Israeli Attack On Iran THIS Week?

In the past, it's been pretty iffy trying to pin down where the US stands on an Israeli attack on Iran's nuclear facilities:

US denies IAF likely to hit Iran in '08
The US State Department on Tuesday dismissed an ABC News report based on comments by an unnamed US defense official that Israel was likely to strike Iran's nuclear facilities before the end of 2008.
Pentagon Official Warns of Israeli Attack on Iran
Senior Pentagon officials are concerned that Israel could carry out an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities before the end of the year, an action that would have enormous security and economic repercussions for the United States and the rest of the world.
Now, with the US apparently softening its stance towards Iran by re-establishing a diplomatic presence, it would appear that the US is opposed to a strike.

Not necessarily:
Strike on Iran still possible, U.S. tells Israel

Ehud Barak, the Israeli defense chief, is visiting as Washington is perceived to be softening its stance toward Tehran.

Bush administration officials reassured Israel's defense minister this week that the United States has not abandoned all possibility of a military attack on Iran, despite widespread Israeli concern that Washington has begun softening its position toward Tehran.

In meetings Monday and Tuesday, administration officials told Defense Minister Ehud Barak that the option of attacking Iran over its nuclear program remains on the table, though U.S. officials are primarily seeking a diplomatic solution.
Glad we have that settled. Iran no doubt is suitably impressed by US determination.

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