bailey bud wrote: I'd be more concerned about Netanyahu starting a war (Israel has elections, too).
I suspect most of the tension that we're privy to is really calculated. Sure, there's lots of threats - but I don't think there's as many intentions as there are threats.
I suspect there will be a tense, but not apocolyptic confrontation between Iran and a roughly-defined but secret coalition (the Gulf Arab countries still don't like the idea of being openly aligned with Israel). The confrontation will be similar to the cold war (a very uncomfortable - but balanced distribution of power).
However - since there is a balance-of-power --- neither side will win --- and both realize that - and will avoid all-out confrontation. (think "Cuban Missle crisis")
I think the more neutral states (Qatar, Oman, and the UAE) will eventually move toward a resolution - and the Persians will find a more Persian-like leader who doesn't run his mouth on non-stop about silly stuff (Zionist conspiracies, etc). Hopefully, Israel will also find a less hawkish Prime Minister (Livni, please) -- and everyone will live happily ever-after.
Personally... I'm hoping for some plains of glass.
neptunechimney wrote: Hasn't anyone noticed that the war has already started. Things are blowing up in Iran. The question is will they retaliate and if so, against who.
I'm hoping they will retaliate against Israel... which should last about 13 minutes.
For those people whose mindset is "oh yeah, baby --- let's bomb Iran" ----
- might want to think about how great that task really is
- might want to think about the immense cultural assets that are in Iran.
On the size of the task:
- Iran borders 8 countries,
- It is 1.6 million sq. kilometers (a little smaller than Alaska)
(80 times the size of Israel)
- They are home to 78 million people (10 times the population of Israel)
On the significance of Iran in terms of Global heritage:
- 13 UNESCO world heritage sites (Israel has 6)
- There's over 50 indigenous languages spoken in Iran.
- There's around 100 distinct people groups in Iran
- Iran has more cultural, genetic, and geographic diversity than most countries on this planet
I'm not trying to reduce the importance of Israel from a political, economic, and heritage perspective (I think they're integral - particularly for Judeo/Christian heritage). However, I'm a humanist, and believe in the value of humanity - including Iran.
While I share wide concerns about Iran and its apparent pursuit of atomic capabilities, I have a hard time simply writing them off. The people of Iran (generally not involved in the antics we see) are worth much more than that (I'd agree that Iran's leaders ought to consider that, as well).
I think Iran has more rhetoric than intent, and would continue to be cautious about over-reacting to their admittedly provocative rhetoric.
