Ex military commanders warn against Iran attack (Reuters)

The Sunday Times February 04, 2007

Diplomacy can still win Iran

AS FORMER US military leaders, we strongly caution against the use of military force
against Iran. An attack on Iran would have disastrous consequences for security in
the region, coalition forces in Iraq and would further exacerbate regional and global
tensions. The current crisis must be resolved through diplomacy.

A strategy of diplomatic engagement with Iran would serve the interests of the US and
the UK and potentially could enhance regional and international security. The British
government has a vital role to play in securing a renewed diplomatic push and making
it clear that it will oppose any recourse to military force. The Bush administration
should engage immediately in direct talks with the government of Iran without
preconditions. There is time available to talk, we must ensure that we use it.

Lieutenant General Robert G Gard Jr
US Army (Ret), Former assistant to the Secretary of Defense, president,
National Defense University
General Joseph P Hoar
US Marine Corps (Ret), Former Commander in Chief, US Central Command
Vice Admiral Jack Shanahan
US Navy (Ret), Former Director of the Center for Defense Information and currently
Chairman, Military Advisory Committee