One of the words in that series just doesn't belong. Can you identify which one? Iran can. From a MEMRI dispatch (Iranian Reactions to U.N. Sanctions Resolution 1737) today:
..."In an interview, Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani, who is in charge of Iran's nuclear dossier, told the Iranian daily Kayhan, which is affiliated with Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, that the sanctions would have no impact on Iran's nuclear program, and would only spur Iran towards its goals: 'Our immediate response to these sanctions is that tomorrow morning, 3,000 centrifuges will begin to operate in Natanz. We are [continuing] our program at full speed... We have already said, on several occasions, that even if the West decides to use the Security Council as a lever [to exert pressure on Iran], this will have no impact whatsoever on our aspirations; on the contrary, we will only become more determined to accomplish our nuclear goals with all possible speed...' "...
Who is taking the UN Security Council seriously anymore? Certainly not Iran and certainly not me.
Comments
It's clear to me that we've bitten off all the military intervention we can chew right now. But the field is wide open for more effective diplomatic campaigns. Like after 9/11 when State Dept called up Musharaf in Pakistan and growled, "We're sending a whole mess of Marines into Afghanistan. You gotta problem with that? No? Good."
I liked Condi (and Bolton, for that matter) but we could be much tougher. I just pray it doesn't take another domestic attack to make it happen.
These days I'm as unhappy with State as I am with the UN. I don't have any love for either one. And that's not just inter-departmental feuding (I'm former DOD INTEL) I think they've done real, lasting harm to the country, both through inaction and scandalous leaks to the press.
I find it ridiculous to hear people (especially Conservatives) espouse support for any action by the UN these days. Congress and well-meaning Americans often demand that we work with the UN Security Council as if their stamp of approval is meaningful. It's absurd. It's the worst joke in human history at this point. I haven't seen a single American make a dent in that mess -- Dr. Rice included.
The presidential candidate in '08 who endorses a pull-out from the UN will automatically have my vote regardless of party!