Some call it Tehran’s bluff aimed at holding Israel and others at bay while others explain repeated warnings against a missile attack against Iran’s nuclear facilities is fair warning to avoid dire consequences.

In the latest statement, Revolutionary Guard Deputy Commander Mohammad Hejazi, warned his country will preempt at any time it feels is “national interests” are being threatened.

While the United States and Europe would like to use the Security Council to slap stiff sanctions on Iran in the hope of compelling Tehran’s adherence to the demands of the international community to abandon its nuclear program, Russia and China remain loyal allies, blocking such a move as permanent members of the Security Council.

In the interim, efforts are underway to impose a marine blockade to prevent Iranian oil exports in the hope that a economic stranglehold will yield the anticipated objectives. This was in response to the increase in the price of a barrel of oil from $107 in January to $119 today.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)