Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Robert Gates addressed the growing controversy over the Pentagon’s conflicting statements on Iran’s role in Iraq. Gates believes roadside bombs are coming from Iran, but says he doesn’t know if those shipments are being directed by the Iranian government as the Pentagon initially claimed. Gates said the Pentagon is sensitive to skepticism following its handling of intelligence before the Iraq War but insisted there is no hidden motive behind the new allegations.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates: “For the umpteenth time, we are not looking for an excuse to go to war with Iran. We are not planning a war with Iran.”