Richard Lugar actually said...

"As Iran accelerates its drive toward building a nuclear weapon in the face of growing U.S.-led sanctions, the probabilities grow of a major conflict in the region."

"Countries that support Teheran, such as Venezuela, could be tempted to serve as proxies for Iran around the world and in coordination with Iran openly challenge the United States."

"The growing and deepening alliance between the mullahs of Iran and the America-bashing leader of Venezuela, Hugo Chavez, poses a serious threat to U.S. national interests."

"Iran continues to be a direct threat to U.S. national security, the security of our close ally, Israel, and other U.S. interests."