Former general, diplomat, says neither US nor Israel likely to attack Iran over nukes

Colin Powell says no Iran strike likely

WASHINGTON — Former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell says neither the U.S. nor Israel is likely to launch a military strike on Iran anytime soon.

Powell, who was also once the top U.S. military officer, says he doesn’t think “the stars are lining up” for an attack on Iran’s known or suspected nuclear sites. The U.S. accuses Iran of hiding plans to build a bomb; Iran denies that.

Powell also says international sanctions on Iran may never persuade Iran to back off what it says is a legitimate nuclear energy program.

Powell says the U.S. may have to accept that, while trying to deter Iran from building or using a bomb.

He spoke Sunday on NBC’s “Meet The Press.”