Iranian illusions
Amir Taheri:
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"Illusion No. 1: That the mere holding of elections is a sign of democratization. Now we know that, although there can be no democracy without elections, it is possible to have elections without democracy.
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"Illusion No. 2: That this regime can be reformed from within.
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"Illusion No. 3: That Iran has a united domestic opposition force that has a coherent analysis of the nation's situation and a clear vision of its future.
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"Short-term realpolitik may counsel an accommodation with the present regime in Tehran, much as it has determined Washington's China policy. But that would mean the premature death of President Bush's ambitious plan for 'a new Middle East.' It would also give the Islamic Republic time to assemble an arsenal of nuclear weapons, and other weapons of mass destruction, which the Tehran leadership regards as its best insurance policy."
Amir Taheri:
...
"Illusion No. 1: That the mere holding of elections is a sign of democratization. Now we know that, although there can be no democracy without elections, it is possible to have elections without democracy.
...
"Illusion No. 2: That this regime can be reformed from within.
...
"Illusion No. 3: That Iran has a united domestic opposition force that has a coherent analysis of the nation's situation and a clear vision of its future.
...
"Short-term realpolitik may counsel an accommodation with the present regime in Tehran, much as it has determined Washington's China policy. But that would mean the premature death of President Bush's ambitious plan for 'a new Middle East.' It would also give the Islamic Republic time to assemble an arsenal of nuclear weapons, and other weapons of mass destruction, which the Tehran leadership regards as its best insurance policy."
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