[Loyolas Mattman]

The problem is that MAD applied equally to the Soviet client states. Castro wasn't going to do jack without Moscow's OK. MAD is based at heart on the theory that "the Russians love their children, too."

Iran and NK have demonstrated that they do not. If they get the weapons, they will use them at a time and place of their choosing. The old theories don't carry as much weight - and if we don't act fast, we will be very, very sorry.

[Marine_Uncle]

I can appreciate your thoughts on this issue, and most certainly do not rebutt what you said. I could have written the same scenario regarding MAD verse the eraser head and turban head's view of the world. No problem. But neither of these goons have total control over their countries. If enough NK Intel and other high ranking officials, and conversly enough Mullahs feel their days are really numbered, the two top goons can be silenced. One can place more then one legitimate scenario into play for either of these countries.
Off course in the case of Persia, the game play may be a bit more complicated. Just who and to what number in the ruling 50 or so Mullahs (those in the mystic movement verse the somewhat realists that simply want to continue building up their financial assests, rule, etc.) really want to see their resources taken out should push come to shove.
Guess time will tell. But your statement begs the question... how do we justify nuking either of these countries in a pre-emptive strike.
I gotta run to. Must shower etc., and head off to work.