Engaging Iran

There's a lot of talk about warring with Iran, especially in the Beltway, but don't be fooled.

For example, have a look at this AP story about Democrats sending Bush a message, warning him against taking on Iran:

Democratic leaders in Congress lobbed a warning shot Friday at the White House not to launch an attack against Iran without first seeking approval from lawmakers.

"The president does not have the authority to launch military action in Iran without first seeking congressional authorization," Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., told the National Press Club.

But as much as Iran has provoked the U.S., be it trotting around the globe inciting anti-Americanism, funding terrorists, developing nukes, and meddling with Iraq, president Bush is not stupid.

If we learned anything from Iraq, it is that war with another nation will require a majority of public opinion, with clear justification. This clear justification must be known to the public, as to ensure lengthy support for the war, just what we don't have regarding Iraq. The president's critics are simply playing politics:

The Bush administration, and several members of Congress, say they oppose talks with Iran and Syria because of their terrorist connections. Bringing the two countries into regional talks aimed at reducing violence in Iraq was one of the study group's recommendations.

"Do we have so little confidence in the diplomats of the United States that we're not willing to let them talk with somebody we disagree with?" Hamilton asked.

The 2008 elections are around the corner, war with Iran is unlikely before then. So what do you think the Democrats are going to say about Republicans and Iran. They will make Iran an issue, cast the Republicans as stubborn hawks itching for war, while they are left as the alternative to a bunch of warmongers.

Considering our experience in Iraq, who do you think Americans would vote for?