IRAN
Just a Bluff? Fears Grow of Israeli Attack on Iran
Dan Perry and Josef Federman, Associated Press – February 5, 2012
For the first time in nearly two decades of escalating tensions over Iran’s nuclear program, world leaders are genuinely concerned that an Israeli military attack on the Islamic Republic could be imminent – an action that many fear might trigger a wider war, terrorism and global economic havoc.
Trading Threats With Iran
Editorial, New York Times – February 3, 2012
The posturing and saber rattling from both Iran and Israel are getting frightening. Iran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz after the European Union and the United States tightened sanctions.
House Intel Chair: Attack on Iran Would Harm U.S. National Security
Michael Ono, ABC News – February 5, 2012
As United States and Israel grow increasingly concerned over Iran’s nuclear program, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee is cautioning that a pre-emptive strike by Israel could spell trouble for America.
Joint Drill with U.S. to be Held After Delay
Yaakaov Katz, Jerusalem Post – February 6, 2012
Israel and the United States will hold the postponed Austere Challenge missile-defense exercise before the end of the year, likely in October or November.
Attack on Iran “would be disaster,” must talk: Turkey
William Maclean and Tim Pearce, Reuters – February 5, 2012
Turkey and Qatar urged the West Sunday not to attack Iran to solve a nuclear row, but to make greater efforts to negotiate an end to the dispute.
MISSILE DEFENSE
Missile defense cooperation could be “game-changer” for US, Russia
Susan Cornwell, Reuters – February 5, 2012
Missile defense, an issue that has poisoned U.S.-Russia relations, could be a “game-changer” that transforms ties if the two sides cooperate on a shared system, says a report by former top officials from both sides of the Atlantic.
NATO: Going ahead with missile shield despite Russian concerns, threats
Associated Press – February 4, 2012
NATO leaders on Saturday downplayed Moscow’s fears that a new Europe-based missile defense system represents a threat to Russia, while vowing to move ahead with it, even if those concerns cannot be fully addressed.
