The Bush administration continues to push its plan for a missile system in Eastern Europe. On Tuesday, President Bush said the system is needed as protection against a possible Iranian attack.

President Bush: “The need for missile defense in Europe is real, and I believe it’s urgent. Iran is pursuing the technology that could be used to produce nuclear weapons, and ballistic missiles have increasing range that could deliver them. Last November, Iran conducted military exercises in which it launched ballistic missiles capable of striking Israel and Turkey, as well as American troops based in the Persian Gulf.”

Critics say the missile system would give the Bush administration a first-strike option in a key strategic area. The Bush administration wants to host the system in Poland and the Czech Republic over a majority public opposition in both countries.