An Iranian missile test is the latest embarrassment to the Obama administration’s efforts to engage Iran diplomatically, as it is a signal of the Islamic Republic’s belligerence.
Reporters Sanger and Fathi suggest that the missile launch was part of President Ahamadinehad’s re-election campaign. The other candidates, readers are reminded, are more moderate than he. Being more moderate than a mad man isn’t the tallest task. Moreover, for a missile launch to occur, sanction must have been given at the highest level. As Westerners are frequently reminded, Ahmadinejad is a figurehead. Sanger and Fathi do not quote responses from the other candidates. If they really are moderate and are in disagreement with Ahmadinejad, then one would expect a public statement. One can hardly imagine an election in America where such an action would not provoke a response from the opposition.
The end of the article references the meeting earlier in the week between President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu, who achieved a compromise on the Iranian nuclear issue. Netanyahu supports Obama’s diplomatic efforts, and Obama has accommodated Netanyahu, declaring that the these efforts have a deadline – year’s end.
Reporters Sanger and Fathi suggest that the missile launch was part of President Ahamadinehad’s re-election campaign. The other candidates, readers are reminded, are more moderate than he. Being more moderate than a mad man isn’t the tallest task. Moreover, for a missile launch to occur, sanction must have been given at the highest level. As Westerners are frequently reminded, Ahmadinejad is a figurehead. Sanger and Fathi do not quote responses from the other candidates. If they really are moderate and are in disagreement with Ahmadinejad, then one would expect a public statement. One can hardly imagine an election in America where such an action would not provoke a response from the opposition.
The end of the article references the meeting earlier in the week between President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu, who achieved a compromise on the Iranian nuclear issue. Netanyahu supports Obama’s diplomatic efforts, and Obama has accommodated Netanyahu, declaring that the these efforts have a deadline – year’s end.
Posts
Great point about would should be a natural response from Ahmadinejad's political opposition.
ReplyDeletePerhaps taking a stance against the missile launch would be viewed by the electorate as unpatriotic.