Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies Center on Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law Stanford University


CDDRL News



October 14, 2002

What About Iran?

Op-ed: The Daily Report on October 14, 2002

Michael McFaul - President Bush has outlined a strategy for dealing with Iraq but not with Iran. Although the goal may be the same--democratic regime change--the options being discussed for Iraq do not apply to Iran. Because the fate of the two countries are intertwined, it is imperative that President Bush explicitly make the distinction and articulate his policy toward Iran before proceeding with his plans for Iraq. The Bush administration must stop treating Iran as a unitary actor and instead recognize and support the allies of liberty there, while seeking to contain the capabilities and ambitious plans of their enemies. Read more »