Phoning for Peace Join some political leaders talking to Iran
by Jim Babka, Downsize DC
Reprinted with permission by the Coffee Coaster
"Neither Iran nor the U.S. want the Taliban back in Afghanistan. Iran is using Iraq to needle the U.S., but long-term, both nations want a stable Iraq. The U.S. is concerned about Iran's nuclear program and the safety of Israel. Iranian leaders are concerned about the U.S. propensity for regime change-we've changed regimes in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as in Iran (1953)."
Text of letter to Downsize DC subscribers 6/10/08:
Quote of the Day
In no part of the Constitution is more wisdom to be found, than in the clause which confins the question of war or peace to the legislature, and not to the executive department.
— James Madison (1793)
Subject: Ron Paul will be calling-you can, too!
Congressman Ron Paul (a Republican), former Congressman Bob Barr (the current Libertarian Party presidential nominee), current Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (a Democrat), and many, many others. will all be talking to people in Iran today, using "red phones" set up at the Cannon Congressional Office Building.
These phones are being provided through the coalition, "Campaign for a New American Policy on Iran."
DownsizeDC.org is a member of this transpartisan coalition of about 35 organizations.
The "red phones" highlight the ease with which President Bush can talk to Iran. It's as simple as picking up the phone. Ron Paul can do it, Bob Barr can do it, Lynn Woolsey can do it, and so too can President Bush. The U.S. and Iran have many interests in common, as well as differences that could serve as the basis for a deal.
Neither Iran nor the U.S. want the Taliban back in Afghanistan. Iran is using Iraq to needle the U.S., but long-term, both nations want a stable Iraq. The U.S. is concerned about Iran's nuclear program and the safety of Israel. Iranian leaders are concerned about the U.S. propensity for regime change-we've changed regimes in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as in Iran (1953).
There's plenty of room to make deals, but first we must talk. Instead.
Strong rumors are circulating in Washington that President Bush intends to attack Iran, after the 2008 US election, when this action can no longer harm Republican candidates. It may be just a rumor, but given the president's past willingness to go his own way no matter what other people think and given the continued risk of an attack by Israel against Iran, the rumors have the ring of truth. The danger is great.
Congress has the power to prevent bombing and compel the President to seize available opportunities to cut a deal with Iran. But Congress, especially the Democrats, are afraid they'll appear soft.
And they are soft.
They lack the courage to stand up to the administration's fear mongering.
Only you can provide Congress with the backbone it needs. You can do that by calling Congress. You won't be alone. People like Ron Paul and Bob Barr and Lynn Woolsey will be making phone calls to people in Iran, while the supporters of about 35 other organizations will be making calls to Congress.
Our coalition has created a telephone number specifically for this purpose:
1-800-788-9372
Call your members of Congress today, and tell them that.
We need direct, comprehensive talks, without preconditions, between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. and Iran share common interests in a stable Iraq and Afghanistan. The U.S. pursued successful negotiations with North Korea and Libya, and it's time to talk with Iran too.
Tell your Congressional leaders that you want dialogue—not war!
Phone calls are the most important thing today, but we also encourage you to send a message on this issue here.
Ron Paul, Bob Barr, Lynn Woolsey, and others will be calling today. Will you?
Please be one of the thousands of people who will call Congress today at 1-800-788-9372.
Please also consider making a contribution to further our work. Generous DC Downsizers have pledged to give $3,600 if others will join together to donate an equal amount. This means every dollar you give up to $3,600 will be worth two.
You can contribute by starting a monthly credit card pledge. It could be a micro-pledge of $3, $5 or $8, or a larger pledge of $15 or $25 per month. One-time donations would also help us to earn that $3,600 matching pledge. You can contribute here.
Thank you for being a part of the growing Downsize DC Army.
