Bush official will meet with Iranians (but he's just there to listen)

I believe this is the diplomatic equivalent of: I didn't inhale. Bush is sending a top official to a meeting with a top Iranian official, but he's not talking, just listening. Got that? Either way, it's got the neocons in a frenzy. Via US News Political Bulletin:

As NBC Nightly News reported last night, the Bush Administration has confirmed reports that Undersecretary of State William Burns "will attend a weekend meeting with Iran's chief nuclear negotiator. The meeting is part of ongoing efforts to persuade Iran to stop its nuclear program." Burns, however, "will reportedly be there, not to negotiate, but to listen." Several media outlets this morning examine the motives behind what is perceived as clear shift by the Administration one that is said to have infuriated the President's conservative allies.

Bush's conservative allies -- and John McCain -- have been trashing Obama for suggesting that we talk to our enemies. Chris reported that the U.S. may even station diplomats in Iran. So, the right wingers, who want a war with Iran, aren't happy about this latest development:

ABC World News noted the White House's objection to Obama's words, but added that "the fact is, they are sitting down at the table with the Iranians," which "is essentially what Barack Obama has been proposing." In fact, former Ambassador John Bolton "said this is like getting an Obama administration six months early. Now, the White House says this is very different. But it sure sounds like it's heading in that direction."

That is a far cry from that John McCain's riff on the Old Beach Boys song "Barbara Ann" which he turned into "Bomb Iran."

UPDATE: Thanks to Reader Kelly M. for pointing out the Beach Boys didn't write "Bomb Iran," which I knew, but didn't convey. In fact, "The Beach Boys 'Barbara Ann' is a cover of the original by The Regents." I can always use help with those music references.