Gates discusses peace, threats in Mideast

BAGHDAD, July 28 (UPI) -- U.S. Defense chief Robert Gates discussed Middle East peace talks, threats presented by Iran and overtures to Syria and Iran in an interview Tuesday.

"I think in terms of the peace process and two-state solution, we are headed in the right direction and a positive direction," Gates said of Israeli-Palestinian discussions on the al-Hurra satellite television network. "I think that both sides are willing to look to a more positive future. I think King Abdullah here in Amman (Jordan) has played a very constructive role with the Arab states."

An Israeli-Palestinian peace solution also is important to help dry up the flow of arms from Iran to Hezbollah, Gates said.

Gates defended U.S. President Barack Obama's decision to reach out to Syria and Iran, saying "a willingness to sit down and talk with them does not mean signing on to their agenda" or making significant concessions to them.

"I think what he has done is created a window of opportunity with respect of both countries," he said, "where there could potentially be constructive developments that would lead to greater stability in the region. He has made clear, particularly with respect to Iran, that it is not an open-ended offer."

While extending a hand, the United States has been engaged in other activities to change Iran's behavior, the defense secretary said, including sanctions, and international condemnation of Iran's behavior.

Regarding the situation in Iraq, Gates said the country has made "extraordinary progress" during the 30 months.

"We have seen it in the significant decline in violence in the country," he said, as well as reaching agreements leading to a schedule for U.S. combat troop pullout. "So, I think there has been great progress and I think that we are optimistic about the future."