Ms. Clinton's statement implied that as much as the U.S. government disagrees with Iranian policies, it concedes the legitimacy of its civilian institutions, as opposed to the illegitimate exercise of power by the Revolutionary Guard Corps. As she said, the Guards are supplanting the government, the supreme leader, the president and the parliament.

One can hope that amid all the turmoil within the Iranian government, some Iranian officials, and opposition figures as well, heard the secretary's message. We have real differences with Iran, but Ms. Clinton's message may help provide a basis for engagement if and when conditions in Iran permit it.

Dale Dean, Arlington