Israel now leads lobby against Iran

Jerusalem | In a major policy change, Israel has launched a high-profile diplomatic initiative to thwart Iran’s nuclear ambitions following President Bush’s warning that a nuclear Iran could produce World War III.

Over the last several days, Prime Minister Ehud Olmert embarked on whirlwind trips to Russia, France and Britain. Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni went to China.

Together with the United States, these countries compose the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. Israel’s goal is to persuade them of the pressing need to tighten U.N.-mandated sanctions against Iran and convince Iranian leaders to abandon their nuclear program.

In Israel, Bush’s remarks highlighting Iranian threats to destroy the Jewish state sparked heated debate. Many lamented that the U.S. president made it seem as if Israel is the only reason for Iran’s nuclear drive — perpetuating a false perception Israelis say is not in their national interest.

The remarks also prompted a debate in Israel over the country’s readiness for a possible missile attack from Iran and its army’s offensive options.

Olmert returned from his lightning visit to Moscow last week heartened by President Vladimir Putin’s declaration that Russia has no intention of allowing Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. But some seasoned Israeli diplomats believe Putin may be playing a double game. More...