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February 17, 2012

U.S.: Iran Unlikely to Start Military Conflict 
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A top U.S. intelligence official said Thursday that Iran is unlikely to
provoke a military conflict, but would respond if attacked. Defense
Intelligence Agency Director Lieutenant General Ronald Burgess made the
comment in testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

Ronald Burgess: "To the West, Iran remains committed to threatening U.S.
interests in the region through its support to terrorists and militant
groups, including in Iraq and Afghanistan, while it remains committed to
strengthening its naval, nuclear and missile capabilities. Iran can
close the Strait of Hormuz at least temporarily, and may launch missiles
against United States forces and our allies in the region if it is
attacked. Iran could also attempt to employ terrorist surrogates
worldwide, however the agency assesses Iran is unlikely to initiate or
intentionally provoke a conflict."



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