No Recognition Of Ahmadinejad, Ctd

Stephen Walt asks:

Over at the Atlantic, Andrew Sullivan...declared today that "the first and absolute requirement of all Western governments" is not to recognize Ahmadinejad as president. I can understand the sentiments behind this view, and I hold no brief for Ahmadinejad or the clerics behind him. But how far is Sullivan willing to take this? Suppose the existing regime survives the current turmoil and remains in power -- which is likely -- and that Ahmadinejad winds up serving as president for another term despite what appears to be clear electoral chicanery? Are we to have no dealings at all with Iran, despite the many issues of contention between us and them?

My point was about not recognizing now. As to the future, we have to see what it brings. A day is a long time right now in Iranian politics. So let's take this one day at a time for now.