Ahmadinejad Sworn In, Gibbs Back Pedals

Yesterday spokes idiot Robert Gibbs said that Ahmadinejad was the "elected leader" of Iran.

Today he revised and extended his remarks.

Gibbs’ reference to Ahmadinejad as “elected” rankled many in the Iranian dissident community, and stood in contrast to comments by France’s spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs who, when asked if France recognizes Ahmadinejad as having been reelected, said “France ’s position of principle, in accordance with international law, is to recognize states, not governments.”

On Air Force One today, Gibbs told reporters that he wanted to "correct a little bit of what I said yesterday. I denoted that Mr. Ahmadinejad was the elected leader of Iran. I would say it's not for me to pass judgment on. He's been inaugurated, that's a fact. Whether any election was fair, obviously the Iranian people still have questions about that and we'll let them decide that. But I would simply say he's been inaugurated and we know that is simply a fact.:

Asked if the White House recognizes Ahmadinehad as the leader, elected fairly or not, Gibbs said it's not "for us to denote his legitimacy, except to acknowledge the fact."

Heck of a job Gibby, heck of a job.

Meanwhile, Ahmadinejad was sworn in today.

Mr. Ahmadinejad did not directly address the massive street demonstrations against his proclaimed election victory, but said his government would "resist any violation of law and interference."

"We will not remain silent, we will not tolerate disrespect, interference and insults," he said.

Top officials and clerics attended the ceremony, which was boycotted by opposition leaders and moderate lawmakers.

Well, now that those unpleasantness is done with, Obama can get back to doing what he does best, apologizing for the US and sucking up to murderous dictators.

posted by DrewM. at 12:31 PM

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