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September 11, 2012

Netanyahu Claims U.S.-Israel Talks on Iran "Red Lines" 
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is claiming to be in talks
with the United States on setting a "red line" for Iran's nuclear
program that would trigger a military attack if crossed. Netanyahu made
the disclosure in an interview with Canada's CBC news.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "We're discussing this right
now with the United States."

Reporter: "So what is it in terms of drawing that red line, what are you
hoping the U.S. will do?"

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "I think the issue is not
merely the sanctions or the steps that could be enhanced to put pressure
on Iran. It is also a clear delineation of a line which Iran cannot
cross in its pursuit of the development of nuclear weapons capability
and I think if Iran saw that there is a chance, I will not say it is
guaranteed, but there is a chance, they might pause and think before
they cross that line."

Asked about Netanyahu's comments in Washington, State Department
spokesperson Victoria Nuland refused to confirm that talks are being
held on "red lines."

Victoria Nuland: "You know, we are absolutely firm about the President's
commitment here, but it is not useful to be parsing it; to be setting
deadlines one way or the other — red lines. It is most important
that we stay intensely focused on the pressure on Iran; the opportunity
for Iran to fix this situation through the diplomacy that we've offered;
and intensive consultations with Israel, and all the other regional
states as we are doing."

 

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