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Obama calls for new start with Iran
As the new President of the U.S. it is wise to take this kind of initiative instead of assuming that past rhetoric still stands, but I'm wondering what Obama will suggest if Iran does continue making threats.
Article said:The United States wants to engage with the people of Iran and end a decades-long strained relationship, U.S. President Barack Obama said in a recorded message on Friday.
The video message, which contained Farsi subtitles, was timed to coincide with the Nowruz festival in Iran. Meaning "new day," the 12-day Nowruz holiday period marks the beginning of spring.
"So in this season of new beginnings I would like to speak clearly to Iran's leaders," Obama said in the video. "We have serious differences that have grown over time. My administration is now committed to diplomacy that addresses the full range of issues before us, and to pursuing constructive ties among the United States, Iran and the international community."
The message is an attempt to bypass Iranian government leaders to speak directly to Iranian citizens about the U.S. commitment to work with the country, White House officials said.
"For nearly three decades relations between our nations have been strained," Obama said in the video message, which was distributed to selected local media outlets and posted online. "But at this holiday we are reminded of the common humanity that binds us together."
Washington has been locked in a bitter dispute with Tehran over its nuclear ambitions and support for Islamic groups.
In the video, Obama compliments Iran on its "celebrated culture."
"We know that you are a great civilization, and your accomplishments have earned the respect of the United States and the world," the president said.
Obama urged the two countries to resolve their longstanding differences but said that cannot be done unless Iranian officials stop making threats.
As the new President of the U.S. it is wise to take this kind of initiative instead of assuming that past rhetoric still stands, but I'm wondering what Obama will suggest if Iran does continue making threats.