There has been a speaker change and new sponsors for the conference which are reflected below:
Iran-Israel-U.S.: Resolving the Nuclear Impasse
Speakers:
♦ Reza Firouzbakht, national board chair, National Iranian American Council
♦ Dr. Ian Lustick, political science professor, University of Pennsylvania
♦ Dr. Keith Weissman, former director of Aipac’s Iran desk
♦ Moderator: Dr. Ellis Goldberg, University of Washington
December 16th at 7 PM
Town Hall, Seattle
Information: 206.632.0662 x 30
Tickets: $10 suggested donation
Purchase through Brown Paper Tickets
Community sponsors:
Stroum Jewish Studies Program, University of Washington*
Middle East Center, UW Jackson School of International Studies*
American Friends Service Committee
Peace Action of Washington
American Muslims of Puget Sound
Jewish Voice for Peace
Kadima Reconstructionist Community
Network Promoting Peace with Iran
United Nations Association of Greater Seattle
* Co-sponsorship of this program by the Stroum Jewish Studies Program and the Middle East Center does not represent an endorsement of the content of the event
This community conference sponsored by local Jewish community groups and peace organizations will explore ways of resolving the Iranian nuclear crisis through negotiation, rather than force. Congress recently passed a draconian sanctions bill directed against Iran. Neocons in the U.S. and Israel suggest that if sanctions do not work eventually military force may be the only way to end or delay Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Many in the progressive community are deeply concerned that the U.S. and/or Israel may soon repeat interventionist mistakes made in Iraq and Afghanistan. This conference will present a comprehensive approach that could resolve major difference through diplomacy and open a new era in relations between these three current enemies. It will also discuss the best means of supporting the Iran reform movement in its efforts to encourage a government based on democracy and tolerance.
Among the issues to be discussed:
♦ What is the best way to approach the issue of Iran’s nuclear program that will secure a positive outcome for those nations opposed to it?
♦ What impact might “crippling sanctions” have on Iran and the overall conflict? Will they work?
♦ What repercussions might there be from an Israeli military attack on Iran and would such an attack attain its objectives?
♦ If a military attack is a bad idea, how do we work to prevent it?
♦ How should the west further the goals of the Iran reform movement?
♦ Voices within the Israeli military, intelligence and academic communities that embrace a more pragmatic approach
* Sponsorship by the UW’s Stroum Jewish Studies Program and Middle East Center of this program does not constitute an endorsement of the program’s content
Richard, I think you owe your readers an explanation about the speaker change. I am curious to know why Trita Parsi will not participate. I don’t know any of the others, and i thought you were to be the moderator. What’s up?
yeah. i agree, that’s too bad, i read parts of his book and found it fascinating, i hope The Lobby isn’t behind it.
I have explained the change to all the event sponsors. NIAC is suing Hassan Daioeslam, a follower of the Mujahadeen al Khalq who I’ve written about here. A legal matter came up related to the lawsuit which forces Trita to be in DC on the 16th. We were left w. the option of changing the date to accommodate Trita’s change of schedule or maintaining the date. The speaker taking Trita’s place is national chair of NIAC & quite capable in his own right.
Iran should not arouse concern. Georgia is the most dangerous flashpoint. The Bible says: “At the appointed time [the king of the north = Russia] will return back [will regain the influence, which it lost after the break-up of the Soviet Union] and come into the south [many indicate that this might be Georgia], but it will not be as the former [1921] or as the latter [2008]. For the dwellers of coastlands of Kittim [the West] will come against him, and he will be humbled, and will return.” (Daniel 11:29,30a) Then Iran will be humbled also. “But ships will come from the direction of Kittim, troubling Asshur [Russia] and troubling Eber [inhabiting on the other side the Euphrates].” (Numbers 24:24a, BBE)
At that time, peace will be taken from the earth and the “great sword” – nuclear sword – will be used. (Revelation 6:4) However, it will be neither the great tribulation nor “the end of the world” (Armageddon). As Jesus foretold, that will be “the beginning of birth pains”. (Mathew 24:7,8)
If the Heavens planned a full return of Russia (and much suggests this) the present economic crisis will deepen. Then also the European Union and NATO will not stands.
Sounds very interesting, despite the loss of opportunity with regard to Trita Parsi. May his good work prevail.
Thank you for your persistence and your many efforts, Richard. Many, many thanks.