[southnews] Bush: US will confront Iran if necessary
 
Date: Tue, 29 Jan 2008 09:23:19 -0600 (CST)


George W. Bush today warned Iran that the US would "confront those who 
threaten our troops" and defend its allies and interests in the Gulf.

US will confront Iran if necessary

 From correspondents in Washington

 Agence France-Presse  January 29, 2008 02:38pm

PRESIDENT George W. Bush today warned Iran that the US would "confront 
those who threaten our troops" and defend its allies and interests in 
the Gulf.

Mr Bush, in his State of the Union speech, also urged Tehran to suspend 
its uranium enrichment program, embrace political reforms, and "cease 
your support for terror abroad".

"But above all, know this: America will confront those who threaten our 
troops, we will stand by our allies, and we will defend our vital 
interests in the Persian Gulf," he said.

His message echoed US warnings about an early January face-off between 
US and Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz and came as Washington 
pushed for new UN sanctions against Tehran over its disputed nuclear 
program.

"Our message to the people of Iran is clear: We have no quarrel with 
you, we respect your traditions and your history, and we look forward to 
the day when you have your freedom," said Mr Bush.

"Our message to the leaders of Iran is also clear: Verifiably suspend 
your nuclear enrichment, so negotiations can begin. And to rejoin the 
community of nations, come clean about your nuclear intentions and past 
actions, stop your oppression at home, and cease your support for terror 
abroad," he said.