Iran a decade away from nukes

This is common sense and everywhere, but I thought it would be a good idea to repeat it all the same. (WaPo A01)

A major U.S. intelligence review has projected that Iran is about a decade away from manufacturing the key ingredient for a nuclear weapon, roughly doubling the previous estimate of five years, according to government sources with firsthand knowledge of the new analysis.

The carefully hedged assessments, which represent consensus among U.S. intelligence agencies, contrast with forceful public statements by the White House. Administration officials have asserted, but have not offered proof, that Tehran is moving determinedly toward a nuclear arsenal.

This sudden Iran policy flare up is a distractionary tactic to move American opinion away from the scandals that have been plaguing the Bush admin. It's no coincidence that Iran suddenly came back on the policy screen after the Christmas holidays. (holidays that Iran doesn't celebrate!)