The Foreign Service Journal, October 2005

nuclear program and seek covertly to make bombs. After all, Iran has an array of potential enemies: Iraq used poi- son gas and missiles against it; Pakistan, which has the bomb, supported the Taliban who murdered Iranian diplomats; Israel, with an estimated 200 nuclear war- heads, regularly threatens Tehran; and American forces surround Iran on all sides. Iran is unlikely to initiate an attack against any of these powers, for example, by killing fellow Muslims, destroying the shrines of Jerusalem and inviting certain and vast retaliation. But, to fearful lead- ers under threat in Tehran, nuclear weapons could appear a deterrent against potential enemies, following the North Korean model. An imaginative but unexplored course might be to offer Iran precise security guarantees; for example, a non- aggression pact with neighbors and outside powers. But that would require a dramatic change in the U.S. attitude. Continuing talks with the British, French and Germans offer some prospect that the day Tehran acquires nuclear weapons can be put off indefinitely. But in the meantime, tough inspections would be required and meaningful incentives (trade, investment, technical assistance and precise security guarantees) offered to coax Tehran down a peaceful path. The Supreme Leader Ali Khameni (who calls the shots) and new President Mahmud Ahmadinejad are adamant that is where they want to go. Washington should end its hostility and not place obstacles in the way of that goal. After all, Iran and the U.S. share perspectives on global oil supply and some Middle East issues (though not the Arab-Israel conflict). In time, given a bit of quiet and passive cooperation from Washington, the Europeans might defuse the nuclear issue and refocus Iranian energies on much- needed economic development. If they can be relieved of outside threats, Iranians will in time find their own way to ease the control of their religious masters. That would be the outcome the world needs, though it might not harmonize with the loud ideological drumming of the Bush administration. n F O C U S O C T O B E R 2 0 0 5 / F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L 35 The Embassy Plan Overseas Insurance Personal Auto & Contents Coverage Experience that helps you avoid the pitfalls of a highly complex business. Repeat business that results from providing what’s best for the customer not the agent nor the insurance company. Since 1969, Harry M. Jannette International has provided dependable coverage with U.S. carriers with a financial rating of A+ or higher to thousands of Foreign Service Personnel worldwide. Thus you gain the broadest U.S. terms and conditions and flexible value limits often not available from other insurance carriers. MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED: SEE OUR WEBSITE APPLICATIONS Harry M. Jannette International, L.L.C. 8111 LBJ Freeway, Suite 585 Dallas, Texas 75251-1334 Toll Free (800) 256-5141 (972) 783-4915 Fax (972) 783-0545 E-mail: hmjintl@jannetteintl.com www.jannetteintl.com • WORLDWIDE COVERAGE Fire, theft, comprehensive and collision protection are available at foreign posts. • U.S. AUTO LIABILITY Available for short term on home leave, change of assignment, and new auto purchase prior to foreign departure. This coverage must be issued in combination with an “Embassy Plan” policy. • FOREIGN LIABILITY Contact your post for compliance with local laws, Excess liability limits are available over local liability coverage. • PERSONAL COVERAGE Household goods and transit, valuable articles, personal liability, life insurance . • EMPLOYEE ASSOCIATION INSURANCE Employee association insurance Including directors and officers. Your Reliable Choice