Iran's government showed more signs of inner turmoil on Sunday as President Ahmadinejad dumped his intelligence minister and his culture minister resigned.

Former Culture and Islamic Guidance Minister Mohammad-Hossein Saffar-Harandi had this to say regarding his resignation:

"Unfortunately due to the recent events which shows the esteemed government's weakness, I will no longer consider myself the minister of culture and will not show up at the ministry as of tomorrow."

It is being reported that the Intelligence Minister Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejeie was dismissed after arguing with Ahmadinejad during Wednesday's cabinet meeting.

In another clear sign of a power struggle within Iran's ruling authority, first vice president Rahim Mashaie stepped down after being appointed by Ahmadinejad just last week. His appointment was not well received by hardliners and had created controversy.

The fact that the rats are turning on each other is sure to further galvanize resolve amongst members of the opposition movement.

U.S. policy regarding the Iranian regime, which is always fluid with the Obama administration, took a more hawkish tone over the weekend as Secretary of State Clinton back-peddled on the subject of Iran's nuclear program. She stated unequivocally that Iran would not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. This, after suggesting that the U.S. would provide a "defense umbrella" to protect allies against a nuclear armed Iran. The "umbrella" rhetoric, for obvious reasons, did not sit well with Israel.

Hillary is much more appealing when the talons are out. President Obama would be wise to encourage her to keep them sharp.