Iran vows ‘crushing’ response to US critiques

Ahmadinejad has no authority to direct major policy decisions on his own - a power that rests with the nonelected theocracy. But his comments often reflect the thinking of the ruling establishment.

The cleric-led regime now appears to have quashed a protest movement that brought hundreds of thousands to the streets of Tehran and other cities in the greatest challenge to its authority in 30 years. There have been no significant demonstrations in days.

Days of relatively restrained talk from both Washington and Tehran appear to be returning to a familiar pattern of condemnation and recrimination despite Obama’s stated desire to move away from mutual hostility. Iran and the United States still appear interested in negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, but the rising rhetorical temperature can be expected to slow progress toward a deal, experts said.

“The political feasibility of pursuing it, and the likelihood of success has changed,’’ said Trita Parsi, president of the National Iranian American Council. “I have a hard time seeing any real engagement taking place for at least four to six months.’’

Obama acknowledged Friday that Iran’s violent suppression of unrest would hinder progress, saying “There is no doubt that any direct dialogue or diplomacy with Iran is going to be affected by the events of the last several weeks.’’

Obama struck a conciliatory tone toward Iran after taking office, sending a video greeting for Persian New Year that used the government’s formal name - the Islamic Republic of Iran - in a signal that the goal of regime change had been set aside. He even avoided strong language as Iran began suppressing street protests, saying he wanted to avoid becoming a foil for Iranian hard-liners who blame the United States and other Western powers for instigating internal dissent.