Obama Gets Tough On Iran

A post by Pat

Just kidding.

The world began anew when the Bowing Fanny plopped into the chair in the Oval Office. Thirty years of hostility from Iran would dissolve in the presence of The One. Obama strikes such a fine figure and makes some rip-roaring speeches, surely he must be smarter than everyone when it comes to peacemaking. Patience, mutual respect and humility will win over the madmen.

When it became obvious it wasn’t going to happen exactly like that with Iran, analysts generously gave Obama the benefit of the doubt that his naivete was actually a clever ploy to put other countries in a bind when it came time to impose harsh sanctions. It was his master plan. That time has arrived. Well, it arrived a long time ago but we’re just now getting around to it. Sort of.

During a press conference in South Korea, Obama was asked about the next step on Iran. He praises himself and the smart plan he has and speaks about Iran’s behavior in oblique, non-confrontational terms. What got to me is the convoluted, wussy language which presumably is getting tough on Iran.

We have begun discussions with our international partners about the importance of having consequences, that the dual track approach requires Iran to get a clear message that when it fails to take advantage of these opportunities, it is not making itself more secure, it is making itself less secure. Our expectation is that over the next several weeks, we will be developing a package of potential steps that we could take that will indicate our seriousness to Iran. I continue to hold out the prospect that they may decide to walk through this door. I hope they do, but what I am pleased about is the extraordinary international unity that we have seen. If you think at the beginning of the year how disjointed international efforts were and how uneven perceptions about Iran’s nuclear program and where we are today, I think it is an indication we have taken the right approach.

We’ve taken the right approach because we have a more even perception about where we are with Iran’s nuclear program? Iran spit all over us and is closer than ever to having nuclear capability. Isn’t that an indication we’ve taken the wrong approach?

We shall see if China and Russia will give even a fig leaf of respectability to the Obama way. In his Cairo speech a few months ago Obama spoke about American derision toward the rest of the world. With his apologies, bootlicking, and immature adherence to conflict resolution tactics meant for children not for madmen, America is now the ground zero of derision in the eyes of the world. All Obama has to hear is, “we like you little America”, and he beams with pride.

Analysis: Outlook for tough Iran sanctions is dim

The administration has tried for months to draw Iran into talks to resolve international worries that its declared intent to develop a civilian nuclear power network is cover for a secret nuclear weapons program. But the Iranians have shown little interest, while denying any clandestine nuclear ambition.

The diplomacy, while unsuccessful so far, may improve the administration’s chances on sanctions by demonstrating to the Europeans, Chinese and others that Washington has at least tried to find an accommodation with Iran.

“A” for effort. The Fanny takes another bow.