February 26, 2007

Iran, last week, again defied the United Nations Security Council deadline for suspending its uranium enrichment program. That probably will lead to U.S. efforts to gain even harsher sanctions against Iran.

The six-page report by the International Atomic Energy Agency, or IAEA, said “Iran has not agreed to any of the required transparency measures, which are essential for the clarification of certain aspects of the scope and nature of its nuclear program.”

I think most people know the scope and nature of Iran’s nuclear program. The scope has nothing to do with energy, as Iran claims, but with making nuclear bombs. And the nature urge to use those bombs to threaten Israel and the United States. Is there anyone in doubt about that?

Because Iran is an importer of oil, the sanctions should start there and be extremely tough. There is unrest in the country and the government is not beloved by everyone. Economic hardship could – could – lead to an overthrow of the mullahs and the fanatical Ahmadinejad. That would be a blessing for all the world.

Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.