In interview, Obama says he's not bluffing on Iran

[March 02, 2012]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama says he's not bluffing when he insists it's unacceptable for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.

In newly expansive remarks, Obama tells The Atlantic magazine that Iran and Israel both should know he means what he says.

Obama meets Monday at the White House with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu (neh-ten-YAH'-hoo). The president wants Netanyahu to postpone any plans to attack Iran's nuclear facilities in coming months.

Obama says he won't advertise any plans for Iran. But he says containment is not an option.

While outlining other steps, Obama said he can't rule out a possible military component. But the president warns that a bomb strike might wind up helping Iran, saying: "Do we want a distraction in which suddenly Iran can portray itself as a victim?"

[Associated Press]

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