The latest National Intelligence Estimate claims, though only based on our limited intelligence, that Iran halted its nuclear program in 2003. Upon hearing the report in The New York Times that that was based on notes by Iranian Generals, it lost a bit of credibility with me. The Department of Energy and National Intelligence Council are only “moderately” convinced of the program’s halt.

I’m not alone.

Just 18% of American voters believe that Iran has halted its nuclear weapons program. The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that 66% disagree and say Iran has not stopped its nuclear weapons program. Twenty-one percent (21%) of men believe Iran has stopped the weapons development along with 16% of women (see crosstabs).

Oh, and most believe Iran is a threat.

The Rasmussen Reports survey also found that 67% of American voters believe that Iran remains a threat to the national security of the United States. Only 19% disagree while 14% are not sure…

Fifty-nine percent (59%) believe that the United States should continue sanctions against Iran. Twenty percent (20%) disagree and 21% are not sure.

Forty-seven percent (47%) believe it is Very Likely that Iran will develop nuclear weapons in the future and another 34% believe Iran is Somewhat Likely to do so

Dems might want to tread lightly on using the NIE as evidence:

Twenty-nine percent (29%) of liberal voters believe that Iran has stopped its weapons program but 54% disagree.

1% believe Iran is an ally of the United States. 62% believe Iran has sponsored terror acts against the United States.

On a personal note, sorry for today’s lack of postings. The trend of light postings will probably go on through the weekend, with heaving posting picking back up on Monday.