The reason for the US being in the middle east was clearly stated by Carter in one of his Presidential Directives - to ensure that the oil flow from the Persian Gulf was not disrupted.

If the US acts militarily against Iran this might be difficult.

One good result of a US invasion might be the bringing down of the monarchies in Saudi and Kuwait and their blatant display of wealth effectively stolen off their citizensand their replacement by majority supported if not "democratic" governments. H'mm these Kings and Princes are friends of the Bush family. Will Dubya risk it?

Jeff Larsen, Chch, NZ

I would hate for us to kill innocent civilians over there, but we are stuck in this problem now, even if America is responsible for some of these current problems happening in the Middle East today. But what are we to do when this nation wants to wipe us off the map, we cant just sit there and let it happen. Forget about talking or trying to reason with the Iranian government, just like Hitler they have their mindset on what they wanna do, no talks or peace treaty is gonna change their minds or way of thinking. America has no will anymore, we are weakening and the enemies know that and are gonna take advantage of this sudden weakness. I dont know about you, but I want to live so I suggest we do something about their hidden agenda behind their "peaceful purpose nuclear technology." Wake up people..before its tooo late...

Jose, New Jersey,

Bush just cant understand that wars dont solve problemes but creat more,He has been advised by wise and senior americans who recommended that he should use high level shuttle Diplomacy as in the days of Henry Kesinger with the Iranians to try and diffuse the situation, we the people who live in the middle east just cant take any more pains, blood shed and mayhim for america and the west to feel safe by destroying our countries, our people and our lifelyhood. Are there no more sensible and wise people left in the world to stop this war mongering?

A.Nasralla, Woodford, uk

The Times might consider closely inspecting the Stryker McGuire articles in Newsweek this week: "The Twilight of a Poodle," especially the Iran material in the American print edition. The idea is that Blair privately encouraged Bush to employ Brit intel to confront Iran. The UK and US developed a "pushback" policy that seems very much in conflict with your article "Fears grow over Iran." In fact, it is a knotted contradiction that The Times would be in a good position to unravel. How can Newsweek have written up such an anachronistic article without anybody noticing? For example, it has Lord Levy as a Blair friend, a fixture. I thought that he had come out with a clear statement that he would not swing for Tony Blair. When the rope starts to tighten around your neck, friendships may lapse. How can there be so little collation of British and American text? I thought that someone in the UK had done an access with Blair, Danziger photos as in Newsweek. Is that not a point for comparison?

Clayton Burns, Vancouver, Canada

Which countries are making open threats of war with Iran (the military option is 'on the table'....)? Which countries have initiated illegal wars against Lebanon and Iraq?

Iran's statements have in comparison been purely defensive. (and don't get me started on Ahmadinejad's mistranslated quote of wiping Israel off the map, he has stated clearly that he wants a referendum from ALL the people living on the land of 'palestine' so that they can decide their own future, not a 2nd holocaust as some warmongers pretend to believe... just ask the thousands of Jews who live in Iran peacefully...)

Nuclear technology pervades western military supremacy (warheads hidden under the sea, the propulsion of the submarines that carry them, aircraft carriers, nuclear 'tipped' dirty bombs) so it is hypocritical to demand that Iran abandon nuclear research when this technology is itself used to bully Iran into doing so.

Jon Manns, Liverpool, IUK

NO ONE SHOULD HAVE NUKES.
Believe it or not that is what most westeners(not government) want.

Jim, Reading, UK

Iran's aquisition of newclear weapons is s foregone conclusion, and it is bad news for the U.S. and Israel. Not
that Iran will use them against either, that will be suicidal,
but they will be a counterbalance to U.S. and Israel threats.
For example, the current two U.S. Aircraft Carriers in the
Persian Gulf to threaten Iran will be usuless if Iran has
nuclear tipped missiles and topedoes to sink them. Add to them the newly acquired modern anti-aircraft missiles from
Russia, and both will deflate the U.S. bravado more than the U.S. "Shock and Awe" bravado against Iraq has been deflated in Baghdad. The U.S. and Israel's destructive forays into Iraq and Lebanon will be their undoing in the region. It proved that U.S. and Israeli forces can be defeated in the ground war, and if Iran could obtain air defense and carrier sinking weaponry, it will become the pride of Muslims and the Middle East, and the nightmare of unpopular pro-American regimes in the region.

Nikos Retsos, River Grove, U.S.

Dear friends,
I see both points. I hear from one side; that is, oh racism and disrimination in the western world. Let me ask the same people that do the Mulims treat others any better? lell me the fact? Do you tolerate other religions equally in your country? You should thank the Christians for letting you practice your religion in Western world!!!!!!!!.
Even in your constitution you discriminate the 'infidels'. On Fridays when you go to moscue to pray ;whats your priests say 'Kill all the Infidels'. But on sundays we pray love your enemies and pray for them. THIS IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ISLAM AND CHRISTIOANITY.
Can anyone imagine a Christian Terrorist go to any Middle Eastern Country and shout "Death to Islam and Death to Saudhi Arabia?' They would chop his head off right their. Do they take him to court, of course not. And what right you have to speak about the justice system in the Western world?
Then about Israel. Israel never said they going to destroy/ annilate the muslim world. They always says they are ready to make peace. but muslims wanto fight.

Al-haman Mustahfa, new york, new york

If the U.S was trustworthy and its reputations unspoilt by so many neo colonialist moves, and if it wasn't about a nation with the worlds second largest oil supply, I might believe the U.S a bit more. But when they want to place santions on a nation that they have already deposed a democracy in & installed a dicatorship in (the Shah), as well as supported a terrible war against it (in supporting Iraq in attacking Iran with chemical weapons), I must say I'm very skeptical, especially when Iran has called on many occaisions for dialog, and the U.S have always said 'no dialog'. How can you solve an issue without dialog.?Answer: They don't want a peaceful resolution. They want control. Regional control.

Neon Rant, Tokyo, Japan

Iran is in an effort to obtain a nuclear weapon, why attempt to hide it? Why do they want it? Clearly if the country were not to arm at all and were to be invaded, the US and other nations have shown their desire to defend countries who do not posses a sufficiently large military. Why the pursuit of trouble? Iran could invest the capital it is putting into this effort in other social, academic or national enrichment programs. With oil at $50 / barrel, they have a steady stream of income to create wonderful programs. Curious what is selected as the path for the nation.

Donald, Houston, TX

It is very unfortunate that some Europeans have learnt nothing in the past 60-70 years.
Once again they try to appease the new Hitler and his proxies.
The new Neville Chamberlain of Britin thinks it wise to bargen with Iran and its terorist proxies.
The new Vichy regime of France thinks there’s no real harm if Iran would have a nuclear weapon or two (what’s the worst that could happen? Wipe Israel of the map? Then we can reassess…).
The new Stalin Russia is again making pacts with Iran.
And most Europeans again understand that everything it is mostly Israel’s fault.
I guess that some Europeans can only get what’s going on after it drives an open roof car right up their Champs-Elysées (oh, and after most Jews are dead).

Gadi Goren, Givat Ada, Israel

Negotiate with Iran. Perhaps a deal can be struck to limit their nuclear development to peaceful uses with tight inspection. Its risky of course but so would military action against Iran. There are clearly no easy answers. Hopefully one day Iran's young people will rebel against the mullahs and install a true democracy. Persians are not Arabs. There is some hope in that.

Jay , New York , USA

Why is a country with one of the world's largest supplies of oil wanting to explore nuclear technology?

It has to be something sinister IMHO.

Eldrad, R-Town, La

I dont think that security decisions are taken based on sentiments. The world and particularly Israel is not safe with Iran as a nuclear state. Iran should be asked to stop its programme or be dealt with period. If Sadam was stopped early enough it would have been unnecessary to have the destruction Iraq has experienced. If Iran refuses to stop its weapon programme it should be attacked and destroyed.

Ogbonna Jerry Msc, DSS, London, UK

I hope Iran does get the bomb. The era of racist and oppressive policies of the West needs to come to an end. How is it possible that those who make war, drop bombs, torture in their jails - that is to say, the biggest violators of human rights, try and impose their will on everyone else?

You have a county in the middle east that is not a signatory to the NPT, has invaded countless countries, has the worlds 5th largest army, lied and decieved the world to acquire nuclear weapons, does not allow IAEA inspections, yet the world doesn't utter one single world! Iran? No, Israel!

This double standard policy needs to be abolished. Until then, why should anyone believe the Western Governments?

Jack, NYC, NY

Why should America have nuclear weapons and not Iran......There's noone more dangerous than George Bush The world is turning on the USA ....Ask yourself why?....It'splain to see why.......

lyndon richards, swansea, uk

yea right,like it is allmighty gods decision and will that no nation other than u.s israel and a few others can have nukes and the rest will have to be their slaves and bow down to them,i am on irans side on this one cause i think it is fair enough for all the parties involved to stop their nuclear activities and then sit at the negotiating table,if that is not acceptable then please put bush,cheney and the war mongerers on a space shuttle and ship them to mars,cause those martians out there have never tasted war in a gazzillion years,its high time they did and this gang can teach them how to start not a war but wars,inshallah (ameen)

hafiz r kazi, mumbai, india

to matts "Is there someone who can explain WHY the United States let India and Pakistan." yes India and Pakistan did not sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty so technically they did nothing wrong

Nicholas, Silver Spring, USA

All this can come to a quick end when China ‘GIVES’ a working nuke to Iran to test and get all the concessions it wants in return. Has happened before , with Pakistan and North Korea and will happen again with Iran.
China in the process will gain sole rights to oil and gas in and US/UK will stay check mated as they need China to sell them goods and buy their debt.

deride, texas, US

Iran filled with all those shiits is a complete terrorist. The world has to stop seeing all the muslims as the same one. Most of the Arab contries are Sunni and we dont feel comfortable with a Shite country having Nuclear Weapons. Then there is no reason to stop Saudi Arabia from having a Nuke. we should open our eyes. If we can't prevent Iran from having Nukes, this means that any country that feels like it can have Nukes. Not even japan or germany have nukes, why should Iran have it. the next thing you know, south korea has nukes against the north. Japan has nukes against China. Taiwan has nukes against China. Cuba has nukes against the US. and Canada has nukes for no reason. and it will become normal to have nukes. Although I am not supportive of a war, if some people have to be sacrefised for the future it is ok. (the spread of Nuke has to stop somewhere). We all want a logial and lasting peace after all, even if it means stoping Iran with Nukes.

Khaled Abou Alfa, Dubi, United Arab Emirates

We had our Windscale. The US had their Three Mile Island. Russia had their Chernobyl.

Can the Iranians avoid a similar or worse disaster?

Brian Gilbert, HAMPTON, Middx

Once again the cowboys try to make the world into the wild west and succeed.

Matthew Smith, San Diego, CA

I never heard of war creating anything but death. All killing is terrorism whether it's us that does it or those we have named "The Terrorists." We have killed more innocents in the last 20 years than all of the terrorists combined. Just because those people live where the terrorists make their base does not make their live expendable. We lost 3000+ in 9/11 and in response we've decided to kill off another 3000 of our soldiers and we've gotten nowhere, the situation is getting worse and more war and fear will make none of it better.
And now we live in an age of nuclear devices, these terrorists you speak of are probably making a bomb inside our borders while we spend all of our time wondering what Iran is going to do. We are killing our own country by fighting this war.

Matthew Smith, San Diego, CA

Oh Jared, you are brainwashed, as are many americans. Your wars have killed millions of people, women and children included. No doubt you are in your fundy church every sunday thanking jesus? Oh, by the way, Jesus was a pacifist, the first non violent revolutionary.
No doubt the Bush Regime will attack Iran, we are anxiously awaiting the next staged terror attack to blame on iran, and the bombs will be dropping.

Ron, Dallas, US

The biggest violators of the NPT are the US, Russia, China, France and the UK. These nations agreed to reduce and eliminate their nuclear arsenals. The role of the IAEA is to help non-nuclear nations like Iran acquire peaceful nuclear technology safely.

Iran hasn't violated the NPT and even observes the voluntary parts of the NPT, yet these NPT violating nations have the gall to accuse Iran of plotting to violate the NPT.

Yet news sources create an impression that Iran has violated the NPT. Why can't the news just inform us of the facts, allow all sides to make their case and let us form our own opinions rather than just parroting American pro-war misinformation and propaganda?

Vince Fiorito, Mississauga, Canada

The United States has killed more innocents in the crossfire of it's war on Al Queda in Iraq than Al Queda has ever killed. Al Queda is evil but we just play into their game of death and we are even better at it than they are! Look at the numbers, we are as much fundementalist killers as anyone. When are we going to learn to lead by example like Christ did. Christ would have tried to make peace with the terrorists knowing that ultimately the Kingdom of God will prevail without the help of man. It is not our job to judge as Christians but to worry about how we act. We need to stop being God. We are worshiping the USA around here and that is Idol Worship! It is a sin. When are we going to follow our own laws and stop worrying about making everyone like us by force.

Matthew Smith, San Diego, CA

I for one wish the US would witdraw from all foriegn soil and pull back with all outside contact. We would be much happier and I believe we could be completely self sufficient with internal resources. Let the rest of the world deal with their problems, leave us alone and if attacked we unleash what ever we have to incenerate the attackers.
We spend way to much money overseas supporting who knows what. We should use all of those resources here and not there. We are only hated for it anyways.
The sooner we do this the better off we will be. Hosting the United Nations was one of the biggest mistakes in the history of our nation. We need to completely shut off all imigration and socialization of our country before its to late.

Dale, Cleveland, USA/Ohio

Just reading the comments here shows a lot about the American pysche and why, as the great reforming historian Toynbee said (a highly respected adviser to Churchill), that America, together with Israel, were the two most dangerous countries in the post-war world.

And as for the US being unlikely to attack Iran, it is only the catastrophe that they have caused in Iraq and the Middle East in general, as recognised by all knowledgeable diplomats and experts outside the Pentagon and Jerusalem, that has slowed their hand. Let's review the situation in 6 months.

Francis Tuttle, Spain,

According to militant islam all infidels must be conquered and subjugated. And anyone who converts to another religion, if they do not convert back to islam, should be killed. Now imagine militant islamists armed with nuclear weapons and pursing these perceived religious obligations.
If this doesn't make citizens nervous then i don't know what will. I mean really, to all the commentors supporting Iran having nuclear weapons, what do you really think would happen if they get them and they had leaders who are or became Militant Islamists?
I am saying what if this was the case and how can we know it is not the case?

Ron, Newport Beach, USA

Yes we are the World Police, someone needs to be or we would be in a lot worse shape all over the globe. Letting Iran do as the wish is the stupidest thing we can do. I support our troops and the war in Iraq. I hope Iran defies us and we use military force. Teach the middle east another lesson.

US&A, Chicago,

The real reason for all the problems in the middle east is the oil and western countries economical reliance on it. If we run out of oil, which we will in the next 50 years, the economies of the world will collapse and the country with the most oil will be the worlds super power.

Alasdair Frost, guildford, surrey

I don't want Iran to aquire nuclear weapons or the technology needed to build them. I am also ashamed of what we've done to Iraq. Our president(and his kronies) have made us very unsafe and squandered the goodwill of the world following 9/11. How do we proceed now? Do we wait for Iran to have and ultimately use nuclear weapons or do we take unilateral action? This is an unmanageable situation. Perhaps our only saving grace will be when Israel decides to stop waiting and attack the nuclear facilities in Iran. We will have to help Israel. That would be the only clear cut decision we could make. I hope it happens soon.

Edward Santos, Manorville, New York

How can we say we working the diplomatic route when we won't even speak to Iran? How chicken is our government of proving our case with Iran face to face, or is the case we have Iraq's wmd all over again. We need to look after our own interests and engage Iran diplomatically and stop following Tel Aviv which got us into Iraq in the first place. Iran is a sworn enemy of AlQaida and has been fighting them from before 9/11. Weakening Iran, strengthens Al-Qaida.

Jose, Washington DC, USA

To Tariq:

It doesn't matter whether or not Iran is a Muslim country. For example, I am not particularly concerned about Pakistan being a nuclear nation. What matters is that Iran is run by an unstable leadership.

Any country that is run by sane leadership (and, yes that includes Israel) is more than welcome to develop nuclear power.

Howard, Chicago, USA

The U.S. is indeed a bully: Quick to attack those who do not cower before it and who are weak enough to not put up a serious fight.

The illegal invasion and destruction by the U.S. of Iraq - a non-threatening, WMD-free, sovereign nation and one-time U.S. ally - is a clear warning of the consequences of remaining defenceless before the bully.

Iran, justifiably, is heeding that warning.

Fred, Toronto,

Amazing how people want to minimize such complex issues by saying that it's all about cheaper oil or just being a bully. Wake up! Put down your picket sign and your 5th grade social studies text book! When a country's president declares that he wants to completely destroy another country, that is reason enough for not letting him have nukes. Especially considering the ties to terrorists and suicide bombers...Certainly oil is a concern as well, but it's not about "cheaper oil", it's about ensuring that we have oil. How long could the US power its vehicles and other equipment w/o oil from the Middle East? There is a huge security concern in ensuring that the US has oil -- it's not about some greedy guy seeking to make an extra buck...And then there's this bit about saying that we shouldn't choose who should get nukes. Of course we should! That's like saying anybody should be allowed to drive a car. We shouldn't make people get driver's licenses.

Jay, Cinci, OH

I dont know war is an answer to any problem nor going in to war with iran stop iran from pursuing nuclear weapon infact if they come under attack they have more then a reason to have nuclear bomb. I think diplomacy is a answer for irans nuclear ambitons and i think every country have right to pursue nuclear power for engery, as long as its is not for bombs. We have signed a nuclear pact with India where india have not signed on NPT. Isreal's PM have said in the press that his country have nuclear weapon. If isreal who is a occuping force in that region and a cause of conflict have nuclear weapon then it gives right to other nations around him to defend them selves.

Rafay , Keansburg, NJ

1. End the hanky panky (politics). Tell them that, if even a mortar shell is being fired from their territory, their sorry country will be levelled starting with Teheran.
2. Build a massive anti-misslile site in Iraq, so you're in the middle of it all (see map). It's a big country and it can be done and protected by the allied forces.

What happened with the neutron bomb, anyway??

Peter Frederiks, Mexico City, Mexico

Iran is no threat to the world but simly trying to protect themselves from the Shear brutality and continious bullying, cant you see they are years away from aquiring the nuk bomb even if they persue which they are not. what about the saviours of the world who proved they are threat, in Heroshima when they were losing the war, will they hesitate to use it [nuke] again? i doubt it. The nukes were ready to be used against Argintina if the war wasnt wone conventionaly, is it fair, all these countries who have used nukes or nearly used them or threatened to use them on the daily basis are seen safe, but who are simply defending to survive are seen evil and are bullied again and again. is this justice? is this democrycy?is this fair?

Kazmi, uk, uk

I agree completely with the reader who said, "What gives the US...the right to have nuclear technology and everyone else is denied it? I would go along with the opinion that a military strike being a bad idea if Ahmadinejad did not keep making statements like "Isreal should be wiped off the map." So, should we keep on imposing sanctions on them until they get mad enough to strike back? If all indications are correct, Iran is years away from having the bomb, so perhaps diplomacy is the answer for now.
Personally, I don't think Iran has the courage to attack Isreal, knowing full well that it would lead to immediate destruction. However, if all Ahmadinejad wants is enough chaos to usher in the Islamic messiah, then maybe their nuclear facilities should be taken out. This is largest question the world faces right now: Talk or take action. Because Iran is surely not going to just suspend enrichment because Washington says so.

Jacob Drollinger, Racine, USA/Wisconsin

Yes, we must pursue a diplomatic solution. However, the impotent UN has demonstrated that it is incapable of doing so, and a Democrat president will wait until Iran has nukes and by then it will too late.

Larry, Seattle, WA

I don't know what do you guys think?!! I'm an IRANIAN and I have had enough of coments about religion and iraq being linked to IRAN! First of all you guys have no clue about the life of IRANIAN people and what they truely believe, all you see is what being broadcasted through Media which needless to say is very very biased! I do not agree with the IRANIAN government but do not forget who was the first and only country ever used nuclear weapons!

All I can hope is that IRANIAN government fails in its nuclear quest! Having said that I cannot stand any idea of a US led invasion of IRAN!

Amir, Fairfax, USA

I feel that most people miss the point. I think that the West and Middle East needs to try to understand each other's perspectives.

It is only through understanding, help and cooperation between countries that any situation like this will be resolved.

War is for the scared and faint-hearted let's choose the tough option for once, let's choose the peaceful route. I am not saying it will be easy, but let's give peace a chance.

Tim Pepper, London, United Kingdom

Perhaps senility has caused me to forget, but wyhere was there 5talk of sanctions when Israel developed their nuclear arsenal?
It seems that this is another example of the double standards exercised by the US and its minions.

Jim Watts, Vancouver, Canada

I am an "arrogant" American and I will say this, if it were up to me, I would leave Iraq, and let Iran develop its weapons. I would cut off the Billions of dollars sent to each of your countries every year in aid and let you solve the world's problem. We will take our money and solve our internal problems. Cut off our borders and protect ourselves. My advise is that Europe better learn to speak Arabic. We all criticize the USA for actions it takes in the world, but every time there is a problem, guess who gets the call to come help. The American people would no longer pour money into third world Hell-holes and watch those government leaders grow fat on corruption. Need help with a famine? Wrestling with an epidemic? Call France. It is time for America to focus on its own welfare and its own citizens. Some will accuse us of isolationism and that is Okay. Although the last time we did that, Europe was learing to speak German. As far as Iran Invading anyone, please go back and research the Persian Era, you would be suprised how long the fighting has been going on in the Middle East.

All American Boy, Washington D.C.,

To Hussain B ELsayes
If you are so concerned about the Palestinians and their captured country, why don't you set a good example and give Egypt back to the Egyptians?

CVT, Windermere,

Tony is just worried the Muzzies will burn up London town if we turn Iran into a glowing parking lot..
GW will not leave office with Iran hold'n Nukes or even looking like they will anytime soon. He is not going to slap Iran on the next Presidents desk no matter who it is. This can is not going to get kicked down the road much further. It's not going to get kicked down the road like N. Korea was.
Aircraft carriers are cool. We got what now, three of 'em sitting in Irans back yard. There all loaded up and fresh and ready to go. Think we woun't pull the trigger? Think again. Besides, you know deep dark down in your terrified soul you want us to.
We've never taken anything from any country we've set free or defended. Except for a little dirt to bury our dead soldiers in a few places. Like France. But mostly we try to bring 'em home. We may not get it right the first time but eventually we always do. Wake up! It's 1939. Pick a side. I have.

M. R. Coxs, Mt. Vernon, USA

It is very good for Iran to devlop and deply nuclear weapons(which it is going to anyway!), and pass them on to their Shiite friends, namely in Iraq, Hamas, and Hezbollah....Since all Muslims who die in the cause of Jihad will reach heaven, with all amenities, there will be major nucear strikes in Israel, Europe (yes...Europe too), in Russia (their Cechnian friends will see to it), China, and India.
So we all need to prepare for the real holocaust of the 21st century within the next 10 years. God help our children all over the world, who will suffer because of the Muslim extremist philosophy, cowardice of the Europeans, and selfishness of Russians and Chinese....!
The only way to combat this is for free nations to stop using oil (there are plenty of alternatives right now), and emasculate the economic power of Iran, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and venezueala.
What is going to happen if there is nothing called an afterlife, or the people who murder others in the name of religion find themselves in hell, rather than heaven?

SEkhar, seattle, wa, USA

since when has the US been the beacon of truth and justice to set standards for others?? I think it's time the international community muzzled the US before they cause WW3.

payam jaan, rockville,

Amazing how people want to minimize such complex issues by saying that it's all about cheaper oil or just being a bully. Wake up! Put down your picket sign and your 5th grade social studies text book! When a country's president declares that he wants to completely destroy another country, that is reason enough for not letting him have nukes. Especially considering the ties to terrorists and suicide bombers...Certainly oil is a concern as well, but it's not about "cheaper oil", it's about ensuring that we have oil. How long could the US power its vehicles and other equipment w/o oil from the Middle East? There is a huge security concern in ensuring that the US has oil -- it's not about some greedy guy seeking to make an extra buck...And then there's this bit about saying that we shouldn't choose who should get nukes. Of course we should! That's like saying anybody should be allowed to drive a car. We shouldn't make people get driver's licenses.

Jay, Cinci, OH

The weapon grade uranium trace was traced back to imported devices from Pakistan, something IAEA has proved before. Everybody knows that Iran has not mastered such technology yet. The above article is written in a way that insinuates as if Iran has a nuclear military program. Well, according to IAEA no such link has ever been established although there are remaining questions. The type of article we see above has no news-worthiness and is pure propaganda.

Joe Dalinjer, Amesterdam, Netherlands

Well if you think that if Iran gets Nuclear weapons Europe will live under Muslim authority then perhaps you are getting closer to how those citizens of Muslim countries feel, always under our authority and in fear of our Nuclear weapons. I don't support nuclear weapons but it's perfectly normal for a developing country to want them. It has less to do with using them than with the presitge and respect that being a superpower demands.

Matthew Smith, San Diego, CA

There should be no need for any reasonable fear over IRAN. This is a nation that after about a decade of war with Iraq it still see its people as ones to assist in term of fuel and infrasructure. No one will have a sleepless night over the stenght of such a nation but an oppresor.

Adeniyi Adebayo, Aba, Nigeria

As an American, I'm deeply concerned over the possible actions our current regime might take before the 2008 Presidential Elections. This is the perfect excuse to tie us into another unwinnable war which I could see ending up exactly how the current Iraq conflict did.

Maybe, just maybe someday our government will learn from the countless mistakes made in the past and actually open their ears to the world opinion. It's time to stop trying to act like we have some sort of obligation to be the world cop.

Why not face larger issues like the Sudanese genocide or AIDS in Africa?

Brian, Bloomington, IN

The UN security council must strive to seek for a lasting solution to this conflagration. Diplomacy is the only key to achieving success here. There should not be any mention of war. The US should stop acting "Big Brother Bullies" in this world.

Ivor -Luke Odonwodo, Abuja, Nigeria

Once again, the Euro-pacifists influence world politics and leave the United States to consider the impact of evil fanaticism all over the world. One must only consider the travesties since 2000...If only the victims from places around the world could speak directly to the "blame & hate the Americans" crowd. Consider the following: Chechnya, Sri Lanka, New York, Singapore, Istanbul, Riyadh, Madrid et. al.(source Wikipedia). Our young men & women in uniform fight so the innocent from all cultures did not (or will not) die in vain. Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness does not equate to free, no consequence, and accept everything I do!

Jered, Dallas, USA / Texas

Some of us are astounded at the abysmall ignorance exhibited by the comments onthis subject.
If the contributors had a grip on the basic issues of the ideological basis of the causes of this ancient conflict they would perhaps be able to make a usefull contribution to
discussions.
Listen to your adversary, and when they shout aloud their determination to destroy you, you had better beleive it. Apeasers beware!!!

ron , ingatestone, essex uk

What is the saying, "history repeats itself". Seems that this is the same instance when Neville Chamberlain handed over Austia to Germany (Hitler), and he said "we have peace for our time". One thing to consider I believe is if the US does nothing about this, I believe that Israel will!

jeff postma, Keizer, Oregon

The mentality in Washington D.C. today is the same as Germany in 1939. Total arrogance and a complete disregard for the international community.

Jorge, Tallahassee , Florida, USA

Who do the US and the Europeans think they are!!! WORLD POLICE!! What gives US and the other poodle nations the right to have NUKCLEAR technology and everyone else is denied it!!

Americans need to get out more, how many of you guys have actually been out of your own state!! Have you been to Iran, Syria, Lebanon to see with your own eyes whats happening there? Your blinded by your prejudice. Get out more!

Why don't people learn from the past lies of the governments?? How many more thousands of people have to lose their life before the public wake up to the deception and lies of their criminal governments! Fact is, 1 western life is more valuable then 1000's of any other life!!

Ali, London,

Mr. Howard and John/USA you two are against Iran just beacuse Iran is a Muslim country! Why don't we hear your strong voices when USA and Isreal threat the whole Middle East to be wipped off? And this is something they are working on jointly>>> what adoublestandard!

tariq, Atlanta, USA

Randall...

Can you back up any of your statements? You talk about Iranian psyche and history, but what about them? As someone already mentioned, last war Iran fought was against US backed Iraq. Before that there was a revolution agains US backed despot. If you look at it honestly, they should be worried, and i don't blame them for thinking that they need a way to defend themselves against US. Especially considering that US has had their fingers in Iran twice in last 30 years.

John, Detorit, USA

To the USA Bashers,

What you see as our arrogance, we see as your ignorance. Any student of history can see what is on the horizon just talking to Iran. What do you think of when you hear of Chamberlain? How about North Korea, how successful was talking to him? Has anything ever promulgated from the UN ever been successful? The obvious answer is no. Just talking to Iran will yield no results. How do you negotiate with a state that advocates strapping bombs to themselves to kill innocent men, women and children? How do you deter them from using nukes after they get them? Threaten them with death? If the Islamic Fundameltalists have there way, you either become a Muslim (even then it has to be the right kind) or you die. No one relishes war, but it is sometimes the only way to stop madmen from making the world conform to their twisted ideologies. By the way, if it were not for the USA, the majority of the world would be speaking German or Russian.

Chris, Harrisburg, PA

Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons and maintains intermediate-range ballistic missiles to deliver them. International community didn't stop Israel from developing nuclear weapon, why Iran? I think Iran has every right to develop nuclear plants or weapon

Azad, Brighton, UK

Sorry folks, I don't think anyone is going to throw any nukes whatsoever, this would be a major mistake, that no politician wants to commit at this moment in time. Its all talk - believe me.

Peter, Burscough, UK

Why all this America bashing? You are right Mr Hook. Iran hasn't got a habit of invading other countries but that is not the point. It is their support including material support of terrorist organisations that is the problem. What a terrifying thought of a nucleur armed hezbollah in Lebanon or even a nucleur device in the hands of insurgents in Iraq.

Alan, Sheffield,,

Iran Wont launch a nuclear Warhead but just supply the neighbouring countries with such device's.. In a nutshell this needs to be stopped.
Shame the only way America knows how to deal with such problem's a brunte force attack :/

Ross, Swnasea, UK

The USA is our closest friend.But when a friend becomes a bully they are no longer a friend.The United Kingdom should take a more independant stance.

Stuart Mullender, Chelmsford, England

Is there someone who can explain WHY the United States let India and Pakistan, not to speak of Israel, develop nuclear wepons? Is it because they are "good" guys? Just the other day they were thretening each other with nuclear bombs. Was that a good behaviour? Why pick and chose who may have the wepons?

Matts, Ottawa, Ontario

You people who think that Iran equals Iraq are sadly disillusioned. I don't think the iRaq war was so great of an idea, but only becuase it emboldened Iran. It would be a terrible disservice to the world if Iran is not stopped from obtaining nuclear weapons.

As an American, I don't object to wars per se. I object to wars that don'y have a reasonable, obtainable objective. Destroying Iran's ability to obtain nuclear weapons qualifies.

Howard, Chicago, USA

When Iran gets the bomb, Europe will live under Muslim authority. You can hope it doesn' happen, you caan hope it will go away - but it will not. The free rights of women will be recinded under Sharia law or else it will be bombs away. Look today at Iran and Saudi Arabia for the furture of Western democracies.

John, Baltimore, USA

Although any form of military action would be catastrophic, I think it is more than likely that Israel will launch a pre-emptive (possibly low level nuclear) strike on Iran. America will be forced to declare it's support for Israel, in the face of the ensuing international condemnation of such an 'hostile act'. I wouldn't be suprised if Russian then sides with Iran in a 'face off' with America and Israel. We will then be on the brink of world three.

This may seem extreme to some but I think this is likely to be the net outcome of any military action, which ironically would only lend support to Iran's belief that it needs nuclear weapons to defend itself nad it's interests.

Chris B, Cornwall,

"Anyone who understands the Iranian psyche and Iranian history must know that allowing Iran to obtain nuclear weapons would be disasterous." J W Randall, Edinburgh

Can you please tell us when Iran last invaded anyone? I seem to remember the last war that Iran fought was against SADDAM Hussein (started by him), who was at that time support by America! If its a history of war-mongering you want to consider, then look no further than the good 'ol USA which is way out in a league of its own for invading other countries in the last 50 years.

Gerry Hook, Coventry,

No more American sologame. America is a very important partner in the world community. This partnership has some very serious obligations. America has to listen to the other opinions about crucial security issues.

susanne, Paris, France

I think the few arogant Americans who write here are representing only themselves and the Israeli Lobby in the USA. The majority of Americans have expressed their opinion during the latest votes. The invasion of Iraq was a great fault and attacking Iran now will be a great foolishness. The arrogant Americans want Europeans to agree for every foolish act committed by the US in recent years because the USA "helped them" in the WW I and II!!! But I'm an Arab and I find the US only supported Israel and ignored the right of the Palestinians to fight to regain their captured country and call them terrorists..

Hussain B ELsayes, Cairo,

I find it unusual that the U.S imposes sanctions on Iran when the U.S administration has instigated most of the wars in the mid east for cheaper oil. If they were really serious they would also distroy their nukes.

Pehaps its yet another excuse to capture Irans resources. I think people these days are not stupid to realise that we are being manipulated to support a war to benefit a few peoples pockets.

Adrian, campbelltown, Australia

Yankee go home! And stay there. I'll even help build the wall to keep you in. Canada is your largest supplier of oil and natural gas. We have something that you have had your eye on for over 60 years. Clean, unpolluted water. What you cannot steal by treaty, you steal by force. Are we next? The world is not your sandbox to despoil, like you have done with your own land. Stay home and clean up your own problems. Starting with regime change. Then and only then should you be allowed back into the world community. Nobody likes a bully. Or an arrogant, ignorant, uneducated prat.

A. King, Port McNeill, Canada

All this U.S. bashing is really just blinkered and over the top, they may get many things wrong, but they also get many things right. Contrary to what many (historically and factually ignorant) people think, the world would be a much more dangerous place if the U.S. were to withdraw into their shell. Anyone who understands the Iranian psyche and Iranian history must know that allowing Iran to obtain nuclear weapons would be disasterous. Fred if you think American arrogance is frightening you should inspect Iranian arrogance. Don't be deluded about the very real danger Iran poses just because you don't like the U.S.
Raven, if the U.S. went home do you really think the world would be in peace? No is the simple answer. Iran would just be emboldend. To your other question, bunkerbuster bombs have no real fall out, if Iran gets nuclear weapons, undoubtedly one of their proxy terrorist arms would use them, then you will see the difference when a whole city is levelled to the ground.

J W Randall, Edinburgh,

To lou M upland CA a bloody long time son

michael elbourne , Victoria.BC, Canada

Everybody likes to pick on the Americans, except when you need us. I am sick of our country being vilified as war-mongering. The history of the last century is one in which the biggest wars, and the totalitarinan philosophies creating them, were distinctly European creations. I guess we were okay when we turned the tide in World War I, when we saved your asses in World War II, and when we rebuilt your countries through the Marshall Plan, when we shut down the USSR in the cold war. I am sure it was nice for you prosper during the Pax Americana of the last fifty years. Even in more limited conflicts of the recent past you let us do the heavy lifting. You Europeans never had the spine to stop Slobodan Milosovich as he murdered thousands on your doorstep...that too took American military intervention when the impotent organ as the UN failed to act. Criticize America now but when your lives are on the line in some future global calamity you will look to us to fix things...again.

Paul Peterson, Saint Paul, MN USA

As much as I despise AJ in Iran, the US is in no position to launch an attack. However, Iran is building the bomb and the utopianists and peaceniks have denied this is happening. Perhaps I should ask the previous-listed groups this question: Why did your hero AJ refuse light-water reactors in favor of heavy-water ones? I suspect there will be little if any answers to the question.

What really chaps my a$$ is how al-BBC warns its arab counterparts of a false US threat. Being that most of the EU and a good share of Great Britain highly dislike Americans, which has been going on for at least 30 years, you have already taken sides with your Iranian counterparts. Given the the EU encourages multuculturalism, I hope your women enjoy wearing burkhas, all in the name of political correctness.

Last: Raven. I highly suspect you fully support al-qaeda. Your version of peace, what I call appeasement, will not fly in the US. Iran will have the bomb while cultural elitist EU will ignore it.

JMS, San Antonio, TX USA

Iranian influence in Iraq, and its continuing threat to Israel, makes
it a justifiable target.
Perhaps, if Ahmadinejad did not attach any ambition to eliminate Israel as part of its nuclear programme, the world would be a bit more sympathetic. Such ruthless stances makes it a justifiable target, both legally and morally.

RA, UK,

The author does not support her position. To the contrary of her conclusion, US forces have updated their OPLAN and stationed assets in the region including several carrier battle groups. Events suggest the US will strike Iran within weeks or a few months at most. Our Administration has the means and it has the will. Your governments would acquiesce to Hitler nowadays. Shame on you cowards!

Rennie Smith, chicago, us

Raven: Don't come crying to us when China or Russia invades Europe. After the way you have treated the United States the last few years, you'll be on your own. Good bye.

David G, Detroit, Michigan

The arrogance of the Americans frighten me, a supposed ally in the UK. If we don't agree we can go to hell. Ive seen it far too often. Cant you yanks see its you who are causing all these tensions?

fred, edinburgh, Uk

Lou I think your right, why dont you Americans go home and make cookies, leave the rest of the world in peace, we dont want you or need you.

And piggy??@@ why are American Bombs clean and Iranian ones dirty? I think American Bunker Buster bombs(Mini-Nukes)are dirty.

Raven, london,

1) The U.S. is following in the footsteps of the old Roman Empire, in more ways than one.
2) The U.S. cannot be the world police it thought it once was. No one respects the U.S. anymore.
So I think we should become isolationists and let the rest of the world take care of itself from now on. Let's see how long that would last

Lou M, Upland, CA USA

Does Iran now have the capability to manufacture thousands of "dirty nukes", which it might be ruthless enough to use in retaliation for any strikes?.

Piggy Kruger, bridgwater, somerset, UK