Clinton to Iran: "You first."

Posted By Megan Carpentier Tuesday, January 27, 2009 - 5:20 PM Share

Hillary Clinton gave her first press conference at the State Department today, and she used the opportunity to talk about Iran. Yesterday, President Barack Obama told Al Arabiya, "if countries like Iran are willing to unclench their fist, they will find an extended hand from us." Clinton followed up on Obama's sentiments today, telling reporters:
There is a clear opportunity for the Iranians, as the president expressed in his interview, to demonstrate some willingness to engage meaningfully with the international community," Clinton told reporters. "Whether or not that hand becomes less clenched is really up to them."
It's not exactly offerings to meet the Iranians "without preconditions," but neither is it a continuation of the Bush policy that Iran must meet all the demands that we would put forth before we will begin even low-level talks...about possible negotiations. Might the Iranians be slightly receptive to this American thaw? With presidential elections there in June, the chances that Ahmadinejad finds his moderate voice are low; he gains very little from accommodation with the United States. Time will tell.
EXPLORE:HILLARY, IRAN, STATE DEPARTMENT
 
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BILLSLAYER

12:11 AM ET

January 28, 2009

Part Deux

I remember the massive, unprecedented success the Clinton Administration had in securing the end of the North Korean nuclear program. They were definitely willing to unclench their fist, say nice things, smile for the camera and make that administration look good. I remember how the media swooned. They just didn't stop their program. I wonder if this administration would be willing to do the same is order to polish their collective haloes?

 

DAN KERVICK

1:11 AM ET

January 28, 2009

Yes, "You First". But First What?

Does anybody know what they are talking about? The commitment to engage in discussions with Iran without preconditions seems to have been subtly changed into an expression of a willingness to talk with Iran after the Iranians first make some unspecified preliminary gesture of fist uncleanching. What sort of gesture are they looking for? The statements following the inauguration from Iran have already been a bit softer, while the Obama team has actually ratcheted up the pressure. This looks to me like a backing away from campaign commitments.

 

SETH EDENBAUM

7:18 AM ET

January 28, 2009

"preliminary gesture of fist uncleanching."

How about the US taking the first strike option off the table?
The tone of condescension is unwarranted, from either Clinton or Wonkette.

 

Madam Secretary is an obsessive blog about all things Hillary Clinton. From her policies to her pantsuits, Madam Secretary delivers up-to-the-minute news, analysis, and gossip about America's top diplomat.