CBS report: Israel is pushing again for war in Middle East, this time an attack on Iran

Israel Prodding U.S. To Attack Iran 
June 24, 2008

White House Weighs Striking Iran's Nuclear Complex, Which Could Trigger 3rd War In Region. Israel has made it clear it intends to end Iran's nuclear program with or without U.S. support and before President Bush leaves office. David Martin reports on mounting tensions in Mideast. 

Joint Chiefs Chairman Admiral Mike Mullen leaves Tuesday night on an overseas trip that will take him to Israel. The trip has been scheduled for some time but U.S. officials say it comes just as the Israelis are mounting a full court press to get the Bush administration to strike Iran's nuclear complex.

CBS consultant Michael Oren says Israel doesn't want to wait for a new administration...

Israel's message is simple: If you don't, we will. Israel held a dress rehearsal for a strike earlier this month, but military analysts say Israel can not do it alone.

"Keep in mind that Israel does not have strategic bombers," Oren said. "The Israeli Air Force is not the American Air Force. Israel can not eliminate Iran's nuclear program."

The U.S. with its stealth bombers and cruise missiles has a much greater capability. Vice President Cheney is said to favor a strike, but both Mullen and Defense Secretary Gates are opposed to an attack which could touch off a third war in the region.

Full report at CBS, June 24, 2008