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Iran and the Next U.S. President

(Washington Institute for Near East Policy) Dennis Ross - Regardless of who is elected on November 6, they are likely to try a more dramatic diplomatic initiative or end-game proposal with the Iranians. They will do it to show the American public that we went the extra mile if force proves necessary. No American president will resort to force without such a demonstration. The stalemated talks between the 5+1 and the Iranians have focused largely on a step-by-step approach designed to have the Iranians show they are prepared to bring their nuclear program into compliance with their international obligations. If there was plenty of time to let the pressures build on the Iranians, the step-by-step approach might yet work. But with 2013 looming as a decisive year, either Obama or Romney is likely to see the need to accelerate the diplomatic process to create far greater clarity. If there is to be a diplomatic way out of the conflict with the Iranians over their nuclear program, sharpening the choice for Iran's leaders may also be the only way to produce it.
2012-10-26 00:00:00
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