(US Sec of Defense) Panetta lets stand report Israel may attack Iran

[Ruby the Liberal]

AP: U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta won't dispute a report that he believes Israel may attack Iran this spring in an attempt to set back the Islamic republic's nuclear program.

Panetta was asked by reporters to comment on a Washington Post opinion column by David Ignatius that said Panetta believes there is a "strong likelihood" that Israel will attack in April, May or June. Ignatius did not say who told him this.

Asked whether he disputes the report, Panetta said, "No, I'm just not commenting."

He added, "What I think and what I view, I consider that to be an area that belongs to me and nobody else."

He noted that Israel has stated publicly that it is considering military action against Iran. He said the U.S. has "indicated our concerns."


Read more: http://missoulian.com/news/world/europe/panetta-lets-stand-report-israel-may-attack-iran/article_fb9105d0-f7ff-5dd9-b7d7-cbfdccdc5e71.html#ixzz1lGStOpZk

[bemildred]

1. Well, personally, I think warning Iran ahead of time is a bad idea.

Which is why I think they are blowing smoke for some other purpose.

[Ruby the Liberal]

2. Just saw where the GOP critters are going to try to pass legislation

getting them out of the $500m defense cutbacks that were triggered by the "surprising" lack of action by last fall's super congress.

I may be getting 5 on this 2 + 2, but seems to me more rhetoric to justify more cash for the MIC.

[bemildred]

3. That's all about pork, you got that right. nt