Tensions rising again over Iran's nuclear program(视频)_美文

Tensions rising again over Iran's nuclear program(视频)

IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano is frustrated. “We need to stop going around in circles discussing process,” Amano said.

Sanctions on Iran’s oil industry are beginning to cripple the economy, and the value of its currency is plummeting.

The Obama administration says this leaves time for more diplomacy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu disagrees.

“Those in the international community who refuse to put red lines before Iran don't have a moral right to place a red light before Israel,” he said.

The debate over Iran has burst into the combative US presidential campaign.

Challenger Mitt Romney has denounced President Obama's Iran policy, while the White House is sensitive to criticism involving Israel.

“There is no daylight between the United States and Israel when it comes to what we perceive to be happening in Iran with regards to its program or when it comes to the commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon,” said White House spokesma Jay Carney.

With sanctions on Iran leading to spiraling inflation, Washington is hoping the pressure will force Tehran to compromise.

“In that situation they may be more tempted to go back and look at the nuclear program to ask if maybe that is where we can make our compromises rather than having to take really tough measures on the economic front,” said analyst Patrick Clawson.