ABSTRACT
Transatlantic differences over Iraq and Iran thus derive from interests, structures and cultures that are difficult to change. On Iraq, it is not difficult to imagine scenarios that lead to further divergence between the allies. As long as Saddam remains in power, and there appear to be no convincing plans for deposing him, the kinds of crises that have divided the allies in the past could easily recur. Domestic politics have played a crucial role in both United States (US) and European approaches towards Iran and Iraq. The deep American commitment to Israel and the role of the pro-Israeli lobby in Congress also prompt a harder policy line towards Iran and Iraq. The scope for convergence on Iran is wider than on Iraq, though perhaps only because the gaps on Iran have been so great. While differences between the US and Europe persist, two sets of developments since mid-1997 have significantly improved the prospects for a more unified approach.
