But We'll Have An Agreement

Oops. Looks like the IAEA isn't thinking too highly of the Iranian nuclear program. They have announced that Iran has failed to comply with safeguards.

They imported nuclear material and processed it without declaring it. They have a uranium enrichment plant that is in an "advanced stage." They have nuclear equipment that is likely stolen.

But they promise not to make a Bomb.

They'll promise to return the spent nuclear fuel.

And Mike Tyson will promise not to rape another woman. Promises from some people just aren't worth a damn.

Are they in violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty? I don't know. Probably, but let's let the UN guys decide (it'll make them feel important).

But before things go any further, we need more than promises. We need more than assurances.

If Iran can't come completely clean and can't stomach the idea of US or international oversight, then they don't need a reactor.

The power of the atom is different than the power of saltpeter and sulfur. Only the US and Japan truly understand the power and consequences of the unleashing of these weapons. Because we taught the world unequivocally the lessons of the awesome power of the atom, we have a special responsibility to ensure that it doesn't get used in a flippant or irresponsible manner.

Is that atomic imperialism? Maybe. But being the world's sole superpower does entail special responsibility.

It's our responsibility to ensure that, until Iran reforms, they can't have the Bomb.