Iran's President Has Much at Stake In Gaza Outcome
From The Wall Street Journal:
As Israel gambles on a potentially messy ground invasion of Hamas-controlled Gaza, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad also has a lot at stake in the outcome of the fighting.
Mr. Ahmadinejad's history of criticizing Israel, and his recent strong condemnation of the Gaza assault, has helped garner a new measure of popular respect across the region. That comes as more moderate Arab states, especially Egypt, draw sharp rebuke for failing to act forcefully enough to stop the violence.
Condemnation of the Israeli offensive has also become a rallying cry for thousands of Iranians. If the ground invasion drags on, popular, anti-Israel outpourings in Tehran -- on display during a large demonstration Friday -- could serve Mr. Ahmadinejad as a convenient distraction. He faces mounting criticism of his economic policies ahead of presidential elections later this year.
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