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Poll: Iran seen as biggest US enemy

By Keith Laing - 02/20/12 04:11 PM ET

A new poll shows Americans consider Iran to be the United States's biggest enemy. 

The latest survey from Gallup shows that 32 percent of 1,000 volunteer respondents said Iran was the biggest enemy of the United States, an increase from 25 percent who named the country last year. 

China placed second at 23 percent, followed by North Korea at 10 percent. Afghanistan garnered 7 percent and Iraq drew 5 percent. 

The survey comes amid growing tensions between the United States and Iran.

The Obama administration has prioritized efforts to pressure Iran to abandon its nuclear energy program. The United States and allies fear Iran is using the program to develop a nuclear warhead; Iran insists the program if for peaceful purposes.

A growing number of lawmakers are calling for the United States to consider military action against Iran to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has said that all options are on the table, but the White House insists Obama is committed to using sanctions to pressure Iran.

Iran, however, has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, and on Friday said it would stop selling oil to Britain and France after the European Union imposed new sanctions.

Last week, Israeli officials blamed Iran for organizing a series of attacks targeting diplomats in Georgia and India. Iran has denied responsibility.


Source:
http://thehill.com/blogs/defcon-hill/policy-and-strategy/211653-poll-iran-seen-as-biggest-us-enemy

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