Iran claims missile test - Mideast/N. Africa - MSNBC.com

Iran claims missile test - Mideast/N. Africa - MSNBC.com

Perhaps it is the tale of David and Goliath. Or the seemingly endless historical evidence that the underdog can win over the arrogant aggressor. Whatever the reason, leaders of other countries have always underestimated the resolve and the ability of the US at their own peril. Certainly, we are parochial in our view of our place in the world. We but into other's problems and try to apply our simplistic notions to complex centuries old conflicts. Be that as it may, as much as I would like to let these little gnats of government leaders save some face, all they are doing is testing our resolve. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto is quoted to say "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve." Discussing the different effects that the US Civil War had on the North and the South, historian Shelby Foote say he thought the North fought the war with one hand tied behind its back and the South never really had a chance.

What possible outcome could Iran hope for in escalating a war of words and actions against the US. Do they really think the US would allow them to develop a nuclear device Would Iran be extreme enough to actually use it? As with far too many events in the history of governments, the people suffer for the lack of foresight and false bravado of their leaders. The people suffered far more in Germany and Iraq than their leaders. Would the leaders of Iran force the US hand to detonate a warhead in Tehran in retaliation for an attack on the US? It is called mutually assured destruction for a reason! In this case, it would be limited destruction for the US and complete vaporization for the great people of Iran. Yet, these people elected a theocracy into power.

I am sure each "David" always believes they have a unique ability against their particular Goliath. But in this case, the only thing the leaders of Iran are going to do is strengthen our resolve and their people will suffer. While we may be the decadent West, the fact remains that Tehran would become a distant memory on a map with the contents of a single Los Angeles class submarine. Surely, they realize this and will not truly try our patience. Especially with this President!