U.S. admiral decries talk of war on Iran

Associated Press - Wednesday, February 14th, 2007 10:35:10 AM
CAMP H.M. SMITH, HAWAII -- The man who's about to become the new commander of all American forces in the Middle East says the US does not want war with Iran.Admiral William Fallon says another war in the region is, quote, "not where we want to go." Fallon takes over from Army General John Abizaid next month as he head of the US Central Command. He's currently chief of US forces in the Pacific.In an interview with The Associated Press, Fallon also calls for an end to speculation that the Bush administration may be gearing up for military action against Iran. He calls it "unhelpful" and says such talk only serves to "up the ante of fear and uncertainty."The administration recently has been underscoring Iranian threats, including its nuclear program and alleged backing for terrorists in Iraq. Fallon himself thinks Iran is trying to inflame instability in Iraq but hopes it will change direction and play a constructive role.