Iran’s nuclear program hits a roadblock:

Russia warned Iran on Tuesday of “irreversible consequences” for the Bushehr nuclear power station project should Tehran fail to resolve a financing dispute, state-run RIA Novosti reported.

“We cannot wait longer for a decision by the Iranian side,” Vladimir Pavlov, director for Russian contractor Atomstroiexport’s Bushehr work, was quoted as saying. “Delays in restarting the financing will bring irreversible consequences.”

Iran’s nuclear program is a top priority for Ahmadinejad. If they can’t afford to keep up payments, it’s an indication of serious financial problems.

Is the Islamic Republic on the verge of a total economic meltdown?

The January 20 edition of the Iranian reformist daily Rooz included an interview with an economist, Saeed Leilaz. ” Iran is on the verge of economic collapse,” he said. “A large portion of the economic turn for the worse is due to Ahmadinejad’s policies and management style … [which] have prompted many to publicly criticize [him]. … The administration has increased government expenditures so much that we will face an enormous budget deficit in the coming year.”

Mr. Leilaz also said Iran’s deep economic crisis could “ultimately lead to the disintegration of the government.”

We can only hope.

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