Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Andrea, Sacramento — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:20:37 GMT

Unfortunately, Bush's heavy handed tactics have put the US at odds with many countries across the globe including our allies. While America is a great country and will always be we need a new school of thought as to how to work together within a global community because the old one isn't working. There is as much mistrust in the US as there is in the Middle East. Obviously, discussions and negotiations aren't going to work overnight and trust has to be gained again on both sides of the aisle.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Ron Esnard, Plano, Texas — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:21:58 GMT

Maryam Fasili, a teacher said it as it really is. We will not see any compromise from either side that will make a difference. Both sides exist at opposit ends of a moral, religious and social ideoligy.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

nwcoyote, Seattle, WA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:29:00 GMT

If we don't at least TRY to have a discussion with Iran, we'll never know if things can improve. We're never going to be "pals" with them, but I'm sure if we continue our current policy of ignoring them, our relationship with Iran will not change and may get worse. Do we really want to have a nuclear showdown with them? They don't seem to cherish life the way we do, and I'm not sure they would be reluctent to push the button to make their point. For our childrens sake in Iran and the United States, can we please try to start a dialog?

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Rosanne Kimball, Manteca, Ca. — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:32:12 GMT

I understand the mistrust of the Iranian people for Americans. Because of a few previous corrupt and power hungry polititians, Americans as a people have been cast in an unforgiving light. But our voice has finally been heard with the election of Obama. We want peace, and we want peace for those from other countries. Most of our ancestors are from other countries. My great grandma was from Lebanon, yet my fathers grandmother came from Ireland. The face of America is diversity. The soul of America is hopeful, that with a new president, a bridge will span the great division of unrest, and provide ALL peoples the chance to rest. I am hopeful that our president elect can begin to build that bridge, and that someday leaders from other companies can complete it.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Dave - Grand Rapids, MI — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:00:16 GMT

It's interesting that the real leader in Iran recently stated that he's not particularly interested in dealing with the US. On the eave of potential open dialogue with America, which is what Iran had been requesting previously, he suddenly doesn't want to talk. I wonder if it has something to do with a nuclear weapon. Hmmmm.
This is going to be the real test for Obama almost immediately. Iran potentially will have enough enriched uranium between spring of 2009 and the end of the year to make a nuclear weapon (or a few). If Obama does nothing, they get their weapon and it's too late. If he strikes them, he'll be lambasted as a war monger. Do I really think he'll do anything besides talk - no. And we're all learning that talk or the lack of talking is all these countries want to do. North Korea is a great example - after years of talking on and off, they now have nuclear weapons and are exporting their technology (and maybe their weapons too!) to other rogue states. Out of the 1/2 dozen or so countries that are mostly recently nuclear powers, only one has been talked out of it - Libya. That's a pretty low percentage bet. But President Obama is likely to just allow more rogue states become nuclear powers while he talks their ears off. Too bad for America.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

JC — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:19:46 GMT

I disagree with your comment that Obama has "largely been viewed" as the lesser of two evils. That is not my perspective and there are many people I know, including myself, who are truly excited about our country's future for the first time in more than a decade.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Tony Fraser, Grand Rapids, mich. — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:30:13 GMT

I am older 62.5 and have voted republican for years. I decided that we do need a change and younger leadership. I voted for the winner because he presented these ideas. We need to support him and help him make the changes needed. Bury past history, remove corruption and greed and help put America back on track

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Hawk, Dallas,tx — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:37:02 GMT

we have talked in the past and what did we get 9-11, talk is cheap and will get you nothing as we have seen in the past. the bush administration is talking to Iran its a fallacy to say they are not! If Obama shows weakness or unwilling to use the military there will be more war not less, there will be more 9-11 not less.....

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Mike Vakili — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:55:01 GMT

As President elect, Senator Obama said: "Yes we can". The Iranian do not like the arrogance behavior of the United States, and they are looking forward for a better relationship with America if America offers to the Iranian an equal parinership in the world's affairss.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

jay — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:55:21 GMT

i support talks with Iran as soon as they stop trying to acquire nuclear weapons, stop talking about destroying Israel, and stop training/funding radical Islamists to kill our troops in Iraq. talks at any level before that are absurd unless you are of far left persuasion. Hooah !

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

JERRY JOHNSON — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 19:58:01 GMT

WE HAVE VERY LITTLE HOPE OF DEALING WITH IRAN AS LONG AS THEIR GOVERNMENT IS RELIGIOUS BASED.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Scott — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:04:07 GMT

If we don't talk with Iran we are not going to get anywhere. With that being said nothing is going to change. We can stand toe to toe with any country in the world but does that make us right. Instead of putting a bandage on the problems lets get together and fix the problem.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Kc the Parts Guy,California — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:07:15 GMT

It's Time for New Ideas for the 21st Century and it looks like we a finally going to get some.We as a Country took a Giant Leap of Faith Last Night. I believe we are Headed for a Brighter Future.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Derik, Chandler, Az — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:26:47 GMT

It is an optimistic belief that our leaders, whomever they be, will be able to able to find much common ground with the present leadership of Iran. They detest the very foundation of the American culture.....Freedom. They will not tolerate free thinking, free speach, or free will.....and find these American beleifs to be dangerous and a threat to their rule. Iranians will need to take their country back from those who are intolerant, and see their own people as being too ignorant to find their own moral compass and lead themselves to a better future.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Ar S — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:41:29 GMT

I do not think that Obama is thought as the lesser of two devils here in Iran. Most of my friends think he may change the relations between Iran and US. Hope that day will come soon! that will be better for both nations. I do not know why they do not stop it!

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Cindy, Croydo,Pa — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:43:05 GMT

I agree with Dave from Grand Rapids 100%!! The leader of Iran has stated time and time again that he is hell bent on wipeing Israel off the face of the earth! That is why they hate America! Because we back Israel! Yeah ok! Let's give him WMD's! After he takes care of Israel who do you think is next!!! That is what all these bleeding heart liberals don't see!!!

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

mitra, iran — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:08:44 GMT

we have no nuclear weapon. we want no war. we don't hate america. we we don't hate israel. do you know iran have the most jewish people after israel in middle east? Khamenei is not our real leader, we have no real leader, because we have no real election. they are just fake, all the political matters and politicians here are fake. don't believe iranian TV' reports all of them are liers. is there anybody ? can you hear us? for God's sake! God damn ahmadinejad and others! somebody help us

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Stacey Roberts, Roseville, CA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:11:03 GMT

Neville Chamberlain, where are you now, we need dialog...

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Ron, Los Angeles — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:39:54 GMT

The US and Israel need to stop highjacking the UN and submitting false evidence against mid-east nations just to support their ignorant and narrow minded neo-con view of the world. More than half the USA is fed up with fundamentalist foreign and national policies that do everything to prevent peace and prevent financial stability of the working classes.

Less fundamentalism here in the US means less fundamentalism in the Mid-east and the Russian Caususes, which is a good thing for everyone.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Cindy, Croydon, Pa — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:40:25 GMT

mitra from Iran,

Only you and the people of Iran can help yourselves! America can't help everybody in the world! When we try, this is what happens! Countries in the middleeast have to become democracies or the real people of these countries will never be free! And you have to fight for it! Just like we did hundreads of years ago against England! Don't get me wrong, I love England and they are our strongest allies, but we were under their rule and had to fight for our freedom! I pray that someday all countries will be true democracies and your children and grandchildren will be able to enjoy all the freedoms that we in America, England, France and so on do!

Peace to you and your family

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

ron, los angeles ca — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:42:24 GMT

@JERRY JOHNSON

We have very little hope of dealing with Israel and AIPAC as long as their government is religious-based

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

mike simonyan, california — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 22:13:19 GMT

america will never understand iran because there is
a country called israel between the two countries.
It's ok to wipe off palestine,but it is not ok to talk anything bad about israel, werent the americans
who supported this action for the jews.Will you people
wake up and see what is realy going on.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Fred, Montana — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 22:16:53 GMT

Some have compared him to JFK, others to FDR. He likens himself to Lincoln. I believe all he is is another Jimmy Carter. Totally out of his element and in way over his head and abilities.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

K, Colorado — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:01:53 GMT

There is always common ground to be found among differing groups.That's why it is so important to open up the communication lines particularly when there is so much at stake. President-Elect Obama has an excellent way of bringing people together and finding common ground. You could see it last night in the election results.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

mikegach@optonline.net — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:12:28 GMT

If Mr Obama had made negetive comments about Israel or Jewish religion and or if he was a muslim,he never would have been elected or even have chance.What Democracy.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Devout Atheist, Mountville, PA — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:24:32 GMT

Can I ask one question of the people who think it's a bad idea to talk to Iran and other countries who dislike us? Why? Why is it a bad idea to talk to our enemies? It's not like doing so reduces our ability to deal with them if we should need to do so. Proponents of nuclear and armed deterence have always said that the best weapon is the one you never have to fire, well why not run with that idea? If they see we're willing to talk instead of jut impossing our will, that will deal with alot of anger directed at us globally, all the more so if we are willing to cooperate instead of command. Even if we cannot work out the problems, the fact that we were willing to use diplomicy and compromise instead of force wil help dissuade impressionable people from these countries from buying this cultivated image oof America as the "evil empire". We've got an image problem, one which galvanizes people accross the globe to view us negatively. If talking to a despot saves American lives by softening our image and showing our willingness to communicate, then I submit that it would be unpatriotic to at least attempt the effort. And of course some people will not be swayed from their irrational hate, and we can be prepared for those people when the time comes. But guns fire as well after negotiations as before, so how about we try opening lines of dialog before we open fire? I bet we'd be safer in the long run for it.

p.s. Don't come back at this with 9/11! There was no government behind that, especially not Iraq's, and the people who were behind it were the ones who believed we could not be talked with.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Its Me Right , Here — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:35:18 GMT

You want the same opportunites? Well seems I remember a few years back you ushered these extremists in. If you are envious and really want this, then usher the exremists out. Geez. Do I have to think for you too? Revolt I tell you.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Ben, Israel — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:45:03 GMT

im from israel and i agree with Dave from Grand Rapids. this is very dangerous because in the next year if there will be a war. Talking will not do anything. its a shame that the Iranian leaders want to wipe us off the map, because i dont think the iranian people feel the same. If they develop a nucleaer weapon, im sorry to say but this will be the beginning of world war 3.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

sunshine california — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:51:09 GMT

Dear Mitra from Iran,
Thanks for your honesty. No one can't help the good people of Iran. The citizens in Iran and you included need to be very couragous and to stand strong and not to elect the religious extremists to represent your country. This will not happen. I am very sorry.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Full Moon — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:19:38 GMT

We are everything that Iran and other countries are opposed to. When Obama talks "change" he also means we need to be more like them. We all know he doesn't have the intestinal fortitude to battle anyone physically.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

ali, iran — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 01:22:50 GMT

america has done a lot of harm to us in the past . . we do not trust them. contrary to what mitra says, Seyed Ali Khamenai is our real leader, and we do have real elections. these are a just a very pro west, rich minority. most iranians dont think like this. we want no nuclear weapon. we just want our right, given by the NPT, to make peaceful nuclear energy, a clean source for the future

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Seattle , wash — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 02:05:44 GMT

We the people of earth are tired of the fear mongers american fear mongers and world fear mongers. End fear to begin peace.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Ramin, San Diego, CA — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 02:18:22 GMT

I find it so funny that everyone and their uncles here in U.S. are such experts on Iran, when nobody in U.S. has talked to Iran in the past 29 years. Why do you all think Iran talks so tough? Well let me tell you in just a few concise words. Iran during WWII was neutral, it was promised security by the Allies (Russia, U.K and U.S) to not take sides with the Nazi Germany. After the war these same countries divided up Iran for themselves. Russia took several northern parts of Iran, and U.K and U.S took Iran’s oil and gave Iran 10 cents on a dollar for it. When Iran’s DEMOCRATICALLY elected VP nationalized Iran’s oil, U.S and U.K overthrew him and put Shah in his place and oil flowed (westward) again. Iran and the Iranian people want security, and are tired of being raped by foreign powers. What you have in Iran today are (bitter) fruits of West’s own doing. I am republican and I proudly voted for Obama, I think he is cool-headed and rational, not like the numnuts we had as president for the past 8 years. I hope Obama can engage Iran and help build that Bridge between the two countries. There are so many mutual interests between Iran and the U.S (and even Israel) that it is insane to continue the current hostile path.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Amir Nasiri, Cincinnati, OH — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 04:18:44 GMT

Iran is governed by a theocratic regime that operates mafia like system. The supreme leader, Mr. Khamenei you can view it as the god father and the ultimate decision maker and the rest are just cockroaches. Ahmedinejad is just a symbol and has no effect on decisions.

The country has 75 million population, more than 45% are 35 and under. A young, educated and vibrant population. More than 70 to 75% of the population are against the current governmnet and are yearning for democracy and diplomacy with the rest of the world specially USA.

Iran had once had a great relationship with USA and people know that either they lived during that era or have heard it from their parents and nostalgia. Or through internet and many other media accessible western products.

Iran's economy is one of the worst in the middle east compared to the rich gulf Arab states.

Inflation 25%, Unemployment rate over 20 % and GDP and GNP dropping.

If the current administration uses these weaknesses and leverage it against the Iranian government, USA will have a competitive advantage as far as winning the people of Iran over.

Iranan are yearning for democracy and freedom, they are just waiting for help.

The biggest mistake will be a war against Iran, because Iranian are very proud and nationalists and they will unite even though they don't like the governmnet.

Mullahs are scratching for a war because they know that is the only way they can stay in power.

Try to use the people then you have won Iran.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

cb shirkey, washington court house, ohio — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:01:12 GMT

iranians shouldn't fool themselves that america will become weaker with an obama presidency

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Curious — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:21:45 GMT

It can be expected that there will be a crisis probably within 6 months of his term. Pres Obama will have his will and skill at defusing crises tested at the risk to America. Will he be up to the task? If not America will be in grave danger

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

farzad — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 06:33:08 GMT

To say if Obama should talk or not with Iran is not the point.I think as long as these two countries have not settled their ideas and differences in this region (middle east)they can not talk , because each of them wants to be the winner in this U.S made conflict .Iranian gov. and Iranian people after 8 years of war with Iraq (who was getting all kind of support from Arab and European countries)want to get back the lost power , so it all depends how each side play with his cards.I think the Bush policy did not work in this region and Obama whose ideas are different should not continue Bush policy , so the real winner is Iran ,but how much the U.S is willing to give up is this region is the point , I think the U.S lost the chess game to Iran with all of those bad moves.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Shariel, Turlock California — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 08:16:44 GMT

Ok first of all IRAN has nowhere near enough highly enriched uranium to produce any weapons anytime soon. They have only enriched uranium to about 5% for nuclear weapons you need 98% so there goes that. The Iranian leader only said he doesnt want to talk to appease the radicals in his country. IRAN will be and has always been more than willing to talk to AMERICA under equal terms and with no pre-conditions which BUSHY refused. And another thing we can be great pals with IRAN up until 1979 IRAN was AMERICAS greatest ally even more important than ISRAEL so it can be again of course many things would have to change and it would take a long time for that trust to return.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Reality Check, Myplace — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 08:45:08 GMT

talk and politics means very little when IEDs, mortar shells, and shaped-charge explosives made in Iran are being found on insurgents.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Miko, Finland — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:45:19 GMT

Mitra, we have no idea how to help you, but nice to know that there could be many people in Iran who are not happy with things as they are. I pray for you, I don't know what else I could do.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Brandon, Columbia, SC — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 12:24:15 GMT

Until we remove our dependance on foreign sources of energy we will be forced to deal with countries that oppose our way of life, enhancing their power and economies through our purchases of oil. America had better wake up quick to the fact that our country's economy is based on a foreign product. Until we are able to generate our own sources of energy we will be forced to make deals with the devil and compromise our security.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Glenn,Belfast, Northern Ireland — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:04:42 GMT

WE HAVE VERY LITTLE HOPE OF DEALING WITH IRAN AS LONG AS THEIR GOVERNMENT IS RELIGIOUS BASED.
- JERRY JOHNSON

Just to point out - the only difference in Iran and American governments is WHICH religion. Sure, the Iranians make no secret of it - But the Christian "Moral" Minority, and Jewish influence over American Politics is just as real. Just more covert..
Americas need to "assimilate or destroy" other nations into their ideology (democracy etc.) is a large part of the problem. American style democracy does not work for everyone, and I have little faith in what "democracy" has come to mean anyway.
The best thing for America to do is be humble, drop the arrogance and stop pissing off potential allies by disrespecting their sovereignty. If Canada or Mexico started sending drones into America and bombing selected targets, how would the American politicians handle it? I (hypothetically of course) would like to see this "shoe on the other foot" scenario..

Make enough enemies and the USA could become a very lonely, hostile place.

Hopefully Obama can make some much needed changes - the next few years should be interesting.

I believe the majority of Americans and Iranians echo what mitra, from iran said above.. Its only the Radicals on both sides that ruin it for everyone.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

buzz MacKay elsewhere. ohio — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:03:36 GMT

All is wine and roses now that obama is king. The iranians will talk straight with us and end their efforts to get nuclear weapons. Who actually believes this? Nothing has changed other than the election of saomeone who has stated he will weaken the US to the point where the carrot is offered and there is no stick. I am sure that the IRanian theocracy will respond accordingly and redouble their efforts on the nuclear front. Now is the time when they will be able to make great gains in this area because there is a transition underway and no viable action would be anticipated regardless of the provocation. All hail the world's savior. What a crock!

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Kristina Kohl, Lodi, WI — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:25:16 GMT

I hear you. It is all propoganda. Historically there have been many regimes that do exactly what yours is doing. I don't believe most politicians in the Middle East because, unlike many americans, I know a bit of history. The corruption in that region of the world goes so far back. As does a few wealthy men oppressing the majority. They keep you poor by restricting much of what you do. So Mitra, in Iran, I hear you.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Kristina Kohl, Lodi, WI — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:27:27 GMT

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Heather, Florida — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:55:14 GMT

There will never be true peace between Iran and Israel. Ever. As long as the US backs Israel (which they should continue), there will will always be conflict between us and Iran. There are no words that can solve this conflict, and there is simply nothing our new president can do about it. It has been foretold and promised, and any attempt is a waste of time.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Paul Safer, Middletown, Connecticut — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:29:38 GMT

Opportunity exists for peaceful dialogue. I can't imagine forcing the Iranians or any muslim to live according to my beliefs, but I demand the same respect. My beliefs, religion, morality and economic wellbeing are my own business. I don't attempt to force them on others nor do I expect interferance from others based upon their beliefs. If the Iranians are unhappy with their government then arise and fix the situation either thru election, evolution, or revolution and determine their own fate. Leave out country and surrounding countries alone to fulfill their own destinies.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Sam, Houston TX — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:37:48 GMT

“dialogue” or “diplomacy” never ever works for dealing with this regime. It is just wasting time if you ever think you can bring this regime to the table and get something or anything out of it. As JERRY JOHNSON just said it beautifully that WE HAVE VERY LITTLE HOPE OF DEALING WITH IRAN AS LONG AS THEIR GOVERNMENT IS RELIGIOUS BASED.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

TrooperRecon 101st Hopkinsville, KY — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 15:44:52 GMT

If you do not engage a state you have problems with, how will you know how to solve it? Low level contacts, or 3rd party contacts is the beginning. We really need to avoid a war with Iran-especially right now. Bush&Co were a complete FAILURE. Iraq? OIL. Bottom line. There was BILLIONS made by companies the Bush Admin. were cozy with, and it was all unnecessary. 9/11 was planned by AQ in A-stan. NOT IRAQ. Thanx Dubya, you left Obama a real mess.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Ron Dalah, Santa Monica, California — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:38:42 GMT

The ineptness of Bush's and Rice's foreign policy has led us to the point now where we are not in a position to flex our muscles with respect to Iran, where we need to, because we have squandered our credibility, political capital and resources on the fruitless adventure in Iraq. At the same time, we have antagonized Russia by needlessly provoking her in her hemisphere and just off her borders (missile defense in Poland, Eastern European NATO membership) at a time when we would have been better served to respect her geopolitical interests in exchange for her respect for ours. Bush's foreign policy was cocky and aimless in its unwillingness to set policy based on priorities and its expectation that the US could achieve all goals at once with no trade-offs. The next administration will have to choose between our moral responsibility to stay in Iraq until it is stabilized, versus leaving Iraq to work itself out and freeing us to regroup and re-posture to deal with the other geopolitical challenges that face us.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

John, Norway, Bergen — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:10:25 GMT

Ahmadinejad and Khamenei are very unpopular in Iran. If the threat of foreign aggression against Iran is removed then their fear rhetoric scaring Iranians will lose color. Bush's threats were a gift to people like Ahmadinejad and helped him consolidate his power and actually sidelined Iranian reformists. US should stop making threats against Iran and let Iranians deal with Ahmadinejad and Khamenei. There are a lot of divisions among Iranian political leadership and Ahmadinejad is a losing voice that can only be kept alive by constant foreign threats to Iran.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Joe Wilfred Tsonga — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:13:54 GMT

Negotiation? Yes. The prospect of a real breakthrough? Slim to none. We must remember that the era of critical, independent thinking and decision making for the president of US is over. It's a common knowledge here in my beloved country (US) that when it comes down to foreign policy and especially middle east, the real decision makers are members of AIPAC and her devoted lobbyists!

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Kevin Primm, Lincoln Park, Mich. — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 17:21:17 GMT

Sitting around the campfire with a peace pipe singing We Are The World is well and fine, so long as your enemy also wants to sit and sing. However, despite Americas power and relative security, this is a dangerous world full of people with bad intentions.

I will not fault Obama for a willingness to try diplomacy. No one wants war. Not even Republicans. However there is a differnece between not wanting to fight, and being unwilling to fight.

Iran must not ever be allowed to aquire nuclear weapons no matter the cost. NO MATTER THE COST.

As a staunch Republican I wish President elect Obama every success, sincerely, for the sake of my country, and for the sake of the free world.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Rhonda San Diego Ca — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:02:13 GMT

Remember what President Obama stated when he was on the campaign trail? He didn't pose Iran as a threat because they are such a small country. Do you believe he is that naive about foreign policies/foreign relations? I lived through the Carter era and I can tell you it wasn't pretty. I urge you to Go back in history and read about our relationship with Iran....

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Alex, Philly — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:24:10 GMT

Too bad Obama and Khatami were presidents at different times. Ahmadinejad is too crazy to have successful dialogue with.

Obama: An ‘opportunity and a test’ for Iran

Kourosh Shahidi, Europe — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:26:04 GMT

as the article states, there are NO proof of any nuclear weapons programme in Iran.

american need to wake up from the mccarthist like hallucinations and realize the facts. Irans 6000 year history cant be wiped. Also Ahmadinejad holds no real power regardless of how many stupid remarks.

http://andishehblog.wordpress.com

Kourosh Shahidi, from Europe