Bush has heard from other nations in the world, other nations in the region, and most importantly his military. Some of the senior officers have been quoted as saying they would resign rather than carry out an order to attack Iran. No one besides Israel I've read is in favor of attacking Iran.

If you read the pronouncements coming out of Israel regarding Bush and Iran they are fascinating. Ohlmert says, over and over, that Bush has promised to resolve the Iran problem before he leaves office, that Bush keeps his promises, that Bush is fearless and always does the right thing. Bush is tough, strong and makes the big decisions.

Really putting the screws to the guy where he is softest, that he is a tough guy who always keeps his word to act tough.

And the NIE is Bush's way of, what one used to call in a perjorative manner, "pussying down", cutting and running. Or, in this case, showing some sense. At least setting folks up for it, giving himself the option. He'd boxed himself in before, and may still be in his own eyes.

Arf