HILLARY TO NATIONAL JEWISH DEMOCRATIC COUNCIL: TALK TO IRAN. Jim Geraghty has a post about Clinton advocating James Baker's recommendation of using diplomacy--and being applauded for the idea, which Geraghty approaches skeptically.

Senator Clinton was applauded when she talked about re-engagement with Iran, a position that I suspect would be more controversial with other Jewish organizations.

"We cannot should not and must allow Iran to build or acquire nuclear weapons - that has to be our starting point. No option can be taken off the table. But I think it’s important to look at all options – some have been narrowed by the choices of this administration. If the Bush administration had been smarter, and had been engaged with Iran, Syria and others, I’m not saying dangers would be lessened, but that the process of direct engagement is important. This president’s attitude is “I don’t talk to bad people.” I don’t think that is a smart way to manage the threats we face."

Geraghty has more on Clinton's speech, including a partial transcript.

Technorati Tag: Iran and Hillary Clinton and Israel.