Panetta: Iran Has Not Yet Decided to Make a Nuclear Bomb

by Associated Press Staff - January 8th, 2012 - Fox News

Panetta's remarks on CBS' Face the Nation, which were taped Friday and aired Sunday, reflect the long-held view of the Obama administration that Iran is not yet committed to building a nuclear arsenal, only to creating the industrial and scientific capacity to allow one if its leaders [d]o decide to take that final step.

The comments suggest the White House's assessment of Iran's nuclear strategy has not changed in recent months, despite warnings from advocates of military action that time is running out to prevent Tehran from becoming a nuclear-armed state.

What these comments suggest is that Panetta and the White House have nothing but contempt for the intelligence of the American people. To claim Iran has not been dedicated to building a bomb for several years may be a White House "assessment" but it is an "assessment" based on delusional thinking.

Such an assertion should be enough to frighten the American people. However first it requires a press that mocks the stupidity of the idea. It appears that even Fox News is afraid to alienate the White House by such a reaction. So it is reported as if it is a credible possibility. No wonder the American people are confused. Our Press is falling down on its job.