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World against intervention in Iran

LONDON: Britain and America are flying in the face of world public opinion as they push for tougher measures against Iran over its controversial nuclear programme, according to a BBC World Service poll which shows that opinion worldwide is overwhelming in favour of a diplomatic solution.

It says that support for economic sanctions or military action has dropped “`significantly” in most countries, including India, since a similar poll in June 2006.

Worldwide, options of economic sanctions or military strikes were rejected in 27 out of 31 countries, covered by the poll. Instead, the most preferred approach was to either use only diplomatic efforts or not put any pressure on Iran at all.

On average, 57 per cent were against foreign intervention with 43 per cent favouring diplomacy and 14 per cent opposed to any pressure tactics..

Only one-in-three favoured economic sanctions or military strikes.

In a statement, the BBC said: “The poll also found that there are conditions under which many people would be willing to accept Iran having a limited capacity to produce nuclear fuel. The question asked was: ‘If Iran were to allow U.N. inspectors permanent and full access throughout Iran, to make sure it is not developing nuclear weapons, do you think Iran should or should not be allowed to produce nuclear fuel for producing electricity?’ In 17 of the 31 countries, more people favour than oppose the idea [of Iran being allowed to go ahead], while in 10 countries more are opposed and four countries are divided.”

In India, the number of those who support economic sanctions or military action is down to 26 per cent from 35 per cent in 2006. On the other hand, support for a diplomatic solution has shot up to 43 per cent. In 2006, only 37 per cent of Indian respondents advocated a peaceful approach.

The poll shows that even in countries such as Britain, America and Australia where the support for tough action was the highest in 2006 there has been a dramatic shift in public opinion. In America it has fallen by six points, in Britain by nine points, and in Australia by 10 points. Germany shows a drop of nine points, Canada seven points and Mexico a whopping 30 points.

Only in three countries — Israel, South Korea and Turkey — there has been an increase in support for economic sanctions or military strikes.

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