What possible legitimacy can western officials now have in their efforts to bring other countries into line?
Iran's peaceful or otherwise development of nuclear technology seems to be a bridge too far for our current crop of leaders.
But surely what is being missed is all that is positive about developments in nuclear power. To quote Jeremy Paxman (Newsnight, 16th January (1) 'Iran is floating on oil' so, why the interest in another energy resource?
Why not? Oil may be abundant in Iran (the world's 4th largest supplier) but what self respecting country would want all it's eggs in one basket? Why not Iran use it's current wealth to invest in what ought to be one of the most exciting developments in power supply? Oil may be plentiful, but it won't last for ever. It is also limited in future oriented applications ie. spaceflight and going ever further. There are many other uses for nuclear applications - medicine, for instance.
Western leaders have got the jitters over Iran and their bold defiance.
In Colin Powell (et al)'s opinion Iran could develop Nuclear weapons. Given the level of interfering by the US and others it would hardly be surprising should Iran desire to protect itself. Or, indeed, to spout off over Israel - not uncommon amongst middle eastern regimes and many that have been on the receiving end of western sponsored (or ignored) Israeli attack.
Many have commented on the Iraqi debacle and the all-too-willing coalition's poor handling of every aspect of it. This unfinished business should be what our government's are held to account over before they even dare threaten another country.
And lay off the sport as the beginning of the slippery sanctions slope. Sport should perhaps be a unifying element and celebration of human physical skill and prowess and not a political football used at the whim of dodgy politicians - hands off!
A positive case for the development of nuclear power would be better for international relations.
Of further interest -
(1)http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/newsnight/4617704.stm
http://www.newstatesman.com/nslibrary?qs=iran&x=9&y=10
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