Until the beginning of this year, the Israeli
leadership still entertained the hope that the Bush administration, on
the eve of the changing of the guard, would relieve it of all these
unpleasant dilemmas. The outgoing president, it was said, is a true
friend committed to Israel’s security. Therefore, before he hands over
the reins to an enigma by the name of Barack Obama, he will listen to
his Christian conscience and finish off the deal in Tehran. Or he will
give the green light for an Israeli attack while ensuring the necessary
coordination during the transition period.
