Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The levels of tension are ratcheting upward sharply and are being pushed by the British. According to some of the UK freepers around here, it's unlikely that there is the ability for Britain to strike on their own against Iran without considerable US assistance. Do you concur? If so, then why has Britain taken the measures of cutting off diplomatic relations etc? Is there a SpecOps role for SAS? I personally don't think so....at least not in the form of any sort of hostage rescue, but perhaps a more traditional mission in a regional conflict?
The Brits have limited offensive capabilities in the region, mainly focused upon the peace keeping operations in S. Iraq. They don't have the long range equipment or personnel to launch a meaningful strike on their own. Any action that would be taken would have to have at the minimum, US ok. Right now Blair is between a rock and a hard place, having already committed to withdrawing British troops from S. Iraq and maintaining a limp noodle posture responsible for the easy capture of their personel. That combined with the treasonous nature of the Democrat controlled congress, has emboldened Iran (shades of Jimmih) and hostage taking seems to be a favorite pastime for them (and they play the PR quite well).
With that said, the president has now clearly stated the need for 'regime change' in Iran. The parallels to Iraq are not mistakable. That would indicate that a US lead action is soon to come. The Brits would certainly assist that action with their assets. I think a naval blockaid may be the earliest indicator of a more agressive posture - deny them the gasoline they need will severely hit their pocket books and grow discontent against the ruling mulahs.
Parallel indicators - Coalition forces are hitting Taliban / AQ forces hard and early to blunt their 'spring offensive'. Last year's action was highly touted, but a significant failure due to high losses and capture/death of key leaders. Slapping them down early will provide a breather for assets to be shifted elsewhere.
Finally, if the Eisenhower strike group hangs around longer after Nimitz arrives -or- the Regan group starts heading towards the Indian Ocean from the China Sea.....