Although it's strictly semantics, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics was indeed wiped off the map. ;)
I happen to think that Iran and Syria are both working to increase their influence in the middle east and Israel (and the therefore the U.S.) is in the way. Even Al Quaida sees this (there is a rumor going around in the middle east that Israel perpetrated 9/11 supposedly started by Iran to discredit Al Quaida) and is threatening Iran. It's Sunnis versus Shi'ites (pardon the spelling if it's incorrect)
I previously stated that it's not "public" knowledge meaning that there are indeed people who know for certain but they ain't gonna confirm it.
I don't think that her statement amounts to repeating a lie. Plausible deniability!