A new approach to Iran

[IndianaGreen]

A new approach to Iran

Moshe Dann proposes global mechanism requiring neither confrontation nor appeasement

Moshe Dann Published: 02.17.10, 11:10 / Israel Opinion

Without enforced significant sanctions, Iran will not divert from its course of becoming a nuclear power. And, without international backing, Israel would be unwise to launch a pre-emptive attack against Iran.

It's unclear whether or not Iran has the capability of launching a nuclear-tipped missile from its territory. It may have acquired the technology for a smaller nuclear devise (thanks to Pakistan and North Korea) mounted on ballistic missiles that could be launched by small groups, or via Hezbollah and Hamas proxies.

The obvious advantage of using a proxy is that it's harder to trace its origins to Iran, and therefore it would offer Iran some protection from retaliation, at least for a while.

This situation severely limits Israel's options. Rather than engaging in irresponsible rhetoric, threats and boasting, the situation requires strategic watchfulness. The deployment of allied missile-equipped ships in the Gulf is a serious commitment. And, as Israel's anti-missile defense improves, chances are good that an incoming missile will be intercepted; that would entitle a response with full force.

Once it achieves nuclear capability, moreover, Iran is also limited. The United States, Britain and France (and other countries) could warn Iran that launching a missile – any missile (since it can be assumed to be a WMD) – against a non-Iranian target would result in a devastating response, perhaps the annihilation of Iran, by a combined international force.

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3850390,00.html

[wuushew]

1. Not much useful advice here

The proposal seems to think the enitre international community would agree to destroy Iran and that it will be Iran who shot first in a nuclear exchange. The whole bit about using proxies as an attack method is stupid and a net strategic and tactical liabililty not worthy of further consideration.

Israel should continue to develop ABM technology and find a shrink.