Iran Will Not Benefit from Europe and America's Disagreements: Annual Europe and United States Summit - 2003-06-26

While the Tehran government was preoccupied with sharp protests regarding British Prime Minister Tony Blair's support for Iranian demonstrations, European governments united with President Bush against the Islamic Republic's nuclear activities. In the Islamic Republic's strategy, leveraging what the Iranian government sees as a conflict between the United States and the European Union holds a special place; similar to Saddam's regime, the Islamic Republic has invested relatively heavily in the disagreements between Washington and the EU. Therefore, any issue that could unite Europe and America against Iran poses a potential and increasing threat to the clerical regime in Iran. It seems that the powers on both sides of the Atlantic have found an opportunity to come closer after months of disagreement over Iraq, now focusing on Iran to heal wounds. Even if there is always a difference in views and interests between the EU and the US, as currently seen in their approach to the Palestinians and Hamas, Iran's acquisition of nuclear weapons will not fall into such a category. In the concluding statement of the annual EU and US summit on Wednesday, June 25, it was stated that they would combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction 'using all necessary means.' The statement also identified Iran and North Korea as the biggest threats to the world regarding nuclear weapons proliferation. Romano Prodi, President of the European Commission, said at a joint press conference with President Bush: 'When America and Europe are united, no problem, no enemy can stand in our way. If we cannot unite, any issue can become a crisis and any enemy can become a terrible monster.' In response to Bush's remarks about Iran, Prodi added: 'The EU shares the goal with Bush but seeks a less aggressive approach. We will continue deep and daily negotiations with the Islamic Republic.' However, President Bush firmly stated as before: 'Iran must cooperate with UN inspections, and this is the demand of the free world. If it does not, we will act at the appropriate time.'