Drumbeats of War - Oil Tanker Attacked
Both Iran and the United States, in a unique moment of mutuality, have agreed the explosion was the result of a weapon hitting the Japanese ship. That is the assessment of Israel sources close to both.
Official Iran denies any involvement. At the moment, the United States is believing them. It appears that both sides are determined not to let this incident tip the delicate balance in the region into full blown war. At least not yet.
Speculation as to the perpetrators centers on Pirates… yes, pirates. For a little deeper insight on that, maybe read the post Eritrea. Those pirates are said to be in the pay of Al Qaeda. Of course.
Other possibility being whispered is a ‘rogue element’ of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards. Some captain or colonel pushed over the brink by the UN/US/EU sanctions. Sort of like in Dr. Strangelove.
The United States 5th Fleet homed in Bahrain, and the Iranian navy at Bandar Abbas, near the epicenter of the tiny 3.4 earthquake initially blamed for the explosion, are all on high alert. As are all the other warships in the area, estimated at about 100 military vessels.
That does not include the small-boat ’swarm’ of the Iranians.
“Keep a weather eye open, mateys, and hold on tight, with both hands if you please… there be squalls ahead, and Davey Jones waiting for them what don’t obey…”
