Sounds like the first distinct misstep by the Iranian government in a long time. Overall they have played a difficult position very competently over the last 10 years.
This time it would seem they put themselves in the position of a chess player who makes a move whose success depends on the opponent making the desired counter-move.
So, this error of judgement, assuming that be what it is.
Is it a sign of an independent faction attempting to make their own facts on the ground?
Is it just one of those inexplicable errors of judgement that happens from time to time?
Is it a sign of the effects of international pressure clouding the mind?
Something else?
In any case, it would seem to me they have handed Britain a diplomatic opportunity here, and taken a needless prestige hit.
__________________
"Enemy submarines are to be called U-Boats. The term submarine is to be reserved for Allied under water vessels. U-Boats are those dastardly villains who sink our ships, while submarines are those gallant and noble craft which sink theirs." Winston Churchill
|