WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 (UPI) -- A military strike against Iran to stop it from developing nuclear capability may be an option but expert opinion about it seems divided.
European officials, who are trying to find a diplomatic solution, have said a military option is "off the table." But the United States and Israel have said a military strike possibility should not be dismissed.
Some analysts think the United States may not be able to take out Iran's nascent nuclear program entirely, reports the San Francisco Chronicle. They say a bombing or missile strike may only set back Iran's nuclear program rather than destroy it as Tehran, anticipating such attacks, has hidden its program in different parts of the country.
"The question is, what you have accomplished by taking out those targets?" asks Flynt Leverett, a former director at the National Security Council.
Other intelligence analysts believe that instead of one major facility, Iran may have as many as 20 nuclear facilities, some of them hidden underground. Iran insists its nuclear research is only for producing electricity.
Another analyst said Iran is likely to retaliate against U.S. and Israeli targets in the region. Such an attack would strengthen the government in Tehran.
