The world watches and waits as Iran continues the threat to close the Straits of Hormuz. The warning was issued after enhanced sanctions were put into place against Iran. An article by BBC News quoted Vice-President Mohammad Reza Rahimi as saying, “not a drop of oil will pass through the Strait of Hormuz” if sanctions are widened.
The ominous warning was given in retaliation for a U.S. push to broaden sanctions to include Iran’s oil exports. Not all countries agree that new sanctions should be imposed. Turkey, dependent on Iranian oil released the statement that it would not comply if further restrictions were authorized. U.N. member Russia also has doubts concerning additional action. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said the soviets view does not coincide with America’s. Iran’s resolve to close the strait was strengthened by the recent assassination of the Deputy Director of its nuclear enrichment program. Allegations by Iranian officials were directed at the U.S., Israel, and Britain.
As late as December 28th, the U.S. was downplaying Iran’s boisterous assertions, but now, nearly three weeks later, tensions are higher than ever and comprise from either side is non-existent. Nations abroad have begun putting together contingency plans just in case the worst happens.
The escalation of world anxiety over Iran’s obstinate position concerning nuclear capability has prompted President Obama to make the statement that military strikes are not out of the question. An enforced closing of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran would only bring us closer to that conclusion.
Whether or not all-out war with Iran can be avoided will become self-evident in the coming days and weeks. Complications are abundant and political tempers are short. To give Iran “just one more chance” as suggested by some pundits may not be the best option. The survival of America’s greatest mid-east ally is at stake. If Iran were allowed to achieve nuclear capability, Israel would be in grave danger. In 2005, the fanatical Ahmadinejad stated that Israel should be wiped off the map. Again, in June of 2011 he reasserted his position saying Israel would be eradicated.
Iran’s recent admittance of an underground nuclear facility adds to the urgency to address concerns of its intentions toward other nations. As concern mounts around the globe, we watch, and wait, hopeful that a peaceful solution will end the standoff.