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The Obama Doctrine and Iran
(New York Times) Thomas L. Friedman interviews President Obama - President Obama said Saturday that "engagement," combined with meeting core strategic needs, could serve American interests far better than endless sanctions and isolation. He added that America, with its overwhelming power, needs to have the self-confidence to take some calculated risks. With respect to Iran, he said it was "a dangerous country, one that has engaged in activities that resulted in the death of U.S. citizens, but the truth of the matter is: Iran's defense budget is $30 billion. Our defense budget is closer to $600 billion. Iran understands that they cannot fight us." Obviously, Israel is in a different situation, he added. "Now, what you might hear from Prime Minister Netanyahu, which I respect, is the notion, 'Look, Israel is more vulnerable. We don't have the luxury of testing these propositions the way you do,' and I completely understand that. And further, I completely understand Israel's belief that given the tragic history of the Jewish people, they can't be dependent solely on us for their own security."