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Iranian Actions Speak Louder than Election Results
(Washington Post) Michael Singh - The U.S. administration should focus on Iranian actions, not Iranian personalities. Unless and until Iran is willing to meet international demands regarding its nuclear program and its support for terrorism, fundamental U.S. policy should not change, even as the administration probes for new diplomatic openings. Indeed, until Iran relents, U.S. policy should continue to become firmer, especially in response to Iran's deepening involvement in Syria. Easing the pressure on the regime in response to an election would send Khamenei the message that relief can be had on the cheap, without a true strategic shift. Washington can hold the Iranian regime accountable - by demanding of Rowhani and Khamenei changes not just to Iranian rhetoric, but also to Iranian actions. The writer is managing director of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.