Iran calls for US to end support of Israel
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran’s president called Wednesday for “profound changes” in U.S. foreign policy including an end to support for Israel and an apology to the Islamic republic for past misdeeds.
Hardline President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad also urged Washington to withdraw its troops stationed around the world. He said Iran would be closely watching what President Barack Obama’s new administration does and would welcome a real shift in its approach.
“Change means giving up support for the rootless, uncivilized, fabricated, murdering … Zionists and letting the Palestinian nation decide its own destiny,” Ahmadinejad said. “Change means putting an end to U.S. military presence in (different parts of) the world.”
His comments come as Obama was reaching out to Muslims. He has stressed the importance of engaging Iran, a country the Bush administration often singled out as the most dangerous in the Middle East. In his inaugural address, Obama addressed leaders of hostile nations by saying “we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.”
And if they are not willing?
