Today is the Persian New Year, called “Nowruz“, and inspired a note from President Bush:
March 2006
I send greetings to those celebrating Nowruz.
Nowruz is an ancient celebration marking the arrival of the New Year. For millions of people around the world who trace their heritage to Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, Pakistan, India, and Central Asia, Nowruz is a celebration of life and an opportunity to express joy and happiness through visiting family and friends, exchanging gifts, and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Our Nation is blessed by the traditions and contributions of Americans of many different backgrounds. Our diversity has made us stronger and better, and Laura and I send warm regards to all Americans celebrating Nowruz.
Best wishes for peace and prosperity in the New Year.
GEORGE W. BUSH
Well, Bush actually didn’t mention nukes, but you can read between the lines that the year will be happier without them.
On a less tongue-in-cheek note, I think that this piece by David Sanger yesterday about Iran and nuclear weapons was quite insightful and tracks with a lot of the commentary I have posted in the past on TWN.
I will be posting more on this subject in the next couple of days, particulary from the viewpoint of what I learned from Israeli political leaders.
— Steve Clemons
