Well, thats the whole point of the thread. We need to ask "what if" concerning all of the relevant variables so that the worst ultimate outcomes can be avoided.
The Iran nuclear standoff is deadly serious, and I am hesitant to liken it to a game, but we must have the mindset of a chess player who analyzes the consequences of a large number of variables and moves.
Our only big concern in a war with Iran is the Strait of Hormuz.
I agree that the Strait of Hormuz is a serious issue. Allowing the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would be a major blunder, sharply raising the economic stakes for all interested parties. Perhaps a naval escort of all shipping through the Strait is a solution.
"I agree that the Strait of Hormuz is a serious issue. Allowing the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would be a major blunder, sharply raising the economic stakes for all interested parties. Perhaps a naval escort of all shipping through the Strait is a solution."
A naval escort sounds like a good idea. But first we need to take out the Silkworm anti-ship missile batteries that Iran bought from China (Iran has 18 batteries I believe of 6 missiles each plus reloads.)
Britain should never have given up Socotra. While its not right next to the Sraits of Hormuz, it would give us a base too far from Iran for their SCUDs and Shahab/NoDong missiles to hit but close enough to strike them if we need to.