Barack Obama’s comments at the end of the G20 summit were capped with a Q and A from reporters that left no doubt about American actions if Iran continues its nuclear facilities construction and revealing all existing facilities. The president’s firm but conciliatory message was clear. There will be strong sanctions and the possibility of military actions against those sites is definitely a possibility.
The problem for the United States is its size and purpose. American military bases and other American facilities are located in more than 50 nations around the world. Many people question American motives. Those are questions asked by both American citizens and the people of other countries. The largest and most influential nations of the world hold considerable distrust for this nation.
Israel, other the other hand, has made its position clear. The doctrine that has been supported by most Israeli leaders is strike first when there is a national threat. It’s easy to understand their reasoning. Their entire country is the size of New Jersey. The country is primarily Jewish and its self interest is more easily defined.
Israel does not ask permission for its actions. Israel does act in its own best interest. If Iran is a threat, Israel will take the necessary action.
[...] ability to dissuade an Israeli pre-emptive strike is limited. As I pointed out back on September 26, 2009 Israel is too small not to take the threats seriously. Other Arab nations may also feel [...]
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