Here's the pull-quote from the Washington edition of this story in today's Times: "Washington wants to tighten the screws on Iran, but there's not much thread left." Next time I need to thread a screw, I know whom to call. UPDATE, 5:00 p.m.: A handy reader points out that I'm incorrect; the above metaphor is unmixed. This Wikipedia entry on screw threads exlains why I'm wrong. Mea culpa. The reader further suggests that "somebody needs to get out from behind a desk." Good point! On that note, have a great weekend.