In TV Interview, Iranian Leader Opens a Door

28-Jul-2008 (2 comments)

In a talk with Brian Williams of the NBC “Nightly News” at his compound in Iran, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran acknowledged recent American moves meant to thaw relations with his country, and hinted that Iran could be persuaded to change its course as a result. Here are his words to an American audience:

“Today, we see new behavior shown by the United States […] My question is: is such behavior rooted in a new approach? In other words, mutual respect, cooperation and justice. Or is this approach a continuation in the confrontation with Iranian people but in a new guise?

“[…] If the approach changes, we will be facing a new situation, and the response from the Iranian people will be a positive one.”

The interview took place at a moment best described as “fluid [1]” — the word of an energy market analyst reacting to Iran’s weekend announcement of many more uranium-enrichment centrifuges.

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Brian Williams Reports on Ahmadinejad Interview

by News Goffer on Mon Jul 28, 2008 10:55 AM PDT

But why all of a sudden, has he started talking about "The Iranian People?" In the short excerpts shown of the interview (which will be aired tonight) he uses those words over and over again, as if "The Iranian People" have anything to do with how decisions are made in Tehran. I guess he is getting better in his public speaking skills, learning how to talk to westerners! I doubt he would mention Imam Mehdi, either.