What to Do in Iran

George Packer isn't happy with the realism on display from the Obama administration as events unfold in Iran:

Part of realism is showing that you have a clear grasp of reality—that you know the difference between decency and barbarism when both are on display for the whole world to see. A stronger American stand—taken, as much as possible, in concert with European countries and through multilateral organizations—would do more to improve America’s negotiating position than weaken it. Acknowledging the compelling voices of the desperate young Iranians who, after all, only want their votes counted, would not deep-six the possibility of American-Iranian talks. Ahmadinejad and his partners in the clerical-military establishment will talk to us exactly when and if they think it’s in their interest. Right now, they don’t appear to. And the tens of millions of Iranians who voted for change and are the long-term future of that country will always remember what America said and did when they put their lives on the line for their values.

A strong declaration of support for those marching on the street might provide them with a psychological boost, but unless we're willing to pair our words with deeds, such a boost may not be decisive. Then what? If the Obama administration doesn't intend to intervene directly in these protests, why should they make strong declaratory statements about them?