[Times-UK] Richard Beeston - We know from intelligence estimates that Iran is nearing the point when it can produce its first nuclear warhead and the means to deliver it. That moment is likely to come under the leadership of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader, and Mr. Ahmadinejad, who will be inaugurated this month for another four-year term. These are men who have demonstrated that they intend to hold on to power by whatever means necessary. They are also responsible for accelerating the nuclear program and taking a hardline position against the West, in spite of repeated peace overtures made by President Obama. Washington has given Tehran until September to respond to an offer of dialogue. The hope is that diplomacy can bring Iran back from the brink. Who runs Iran in the coming months and years is not just a matter for Iranians. This is now a global issue.
2009-08-03 06:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive