Obama offers clarity on Iran, and a vital message to Israel

http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/editorials/2012/03/06/obama-offers-clarity-iran-and-vital-message-israel/jBxOEntKqW8DA71gq3gV6K/story.html

Obama offers clarity on Iran, and a vital message to Israel

March 06, 2012

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Obama’s departure from his usual policy of not “advertising what our intentions are’’ was deeply necessary, to blow away the fog surrounding America’s position toward Iran’s nuclear program. Obama put new pressure on Iran, and also on potential US allies. To China and India, who purchase Iranian oil, Obama’s remarks over the weekend demonstrated the necessity for cooperation on sanctions against Iranian oil exports. Recently imposed international sanctions against Iran’s central bank are already being felt in Tehran. To Israel, where the Netanyahu government is considering whether to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities, Obama’s remarks underscored the president’s willingness to take the lead on Iran, but also established his opposition to an early strike.

While no country can cede its security interests to another, Israel should recognize that the path laid out by Obama - of tightening sanctions, international isolation, increasing military threats, and worldwide calls for negotiations - offers the best hope for a long-term solution. An early strike aimed at Iran’s research facilities wouldn’t settle the issue. It might set back some aspects of the nuclear program, but only strengthen Iran’s determination to become a nuclear power.

The global risks of an early Israeli military strike are manifest. Iran is already feeling pressure from unfriendly Arab neighbors, while its closest ally, Syria, is in turmoil. An Israeli strike against Iran, however, would rally other Muslim nations to Iran’s side. The potential disruption of oil from other Middle Eastern countries through the Strait of Hormuz would trigger a worldwide recession and propel the United States and perhaps European allies into a wider conflict.

It’s hard to see how any of this would be in Israel’s interest, but there are troubling signs that the Netanyahu government, uncertain of Obama’s commitment, has been sowing support for a military strike of its own among American backers of Israel, including Republican leaders.

Now, however, Obama’s intentions should be clear - and should satisfy Israel and its backers. The president’s message should be heard in Beijing, Moscow, and New Delhi, as well. And it should put Tehran on notice: Come to the bargaining table, establish peaceful intentions by allowing full inspections of Iran’s nuclear program, and thereby begin the process of rebuilding the country’s standing in the world.