Addressing Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions

Although the release of the December 2007 National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) on Iran has led some to question the immediacy of the Iranian threat, the NIE affirmed Iran’s continued enrichment of uranium and its simultaneous pursuit of ballistic missile delivery capabilities. This dangerous combination remains a cause for real concern and warrants continued action by the United States and the international community. This hearing will examine what the U.S. and its allies must do to develop an Iran strategy that establishes both short- and long-term goals. Additionally, it will explore what the most effective U.S. policy options are regarding Iran – particularly in relation to Iran’s nuclear ambitions – and what lessons, if any, can be gleaned from U.S. involvement with North Korea and Libya, and how those lessons might be applicable to Iran.

Special Congressional Witnesses

Senator Arlen Specter (R-PA), Ranking Member of Judiciary Committee; Senior Member of the Defense and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittees; former Chairman of the Intelligence Committee

Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Member of the Intelligence and Judiciary Committees; Chairman of Terrorism, Technology, and Homeland Security Judiciary Subcommittee; Senior Member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee