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Iran is exceptionally skilled in asymetric warfare, but I suspect it would be a fools errand for them to attempt a full blockade. One of the two US carrier stri
by SEJeff 12y ago
Iran is exceptionally skilled in asymetric warfare, but I suspect it would be a fools errand for them to attempt a full blockade. One of the two US carrier strike groups stationed off of their coasts would be enough to obliterate any sort of a blockade they could manage. Could their be casualties, sure, but the sea is about a conventional warfighting area as they get. You simply can't play by the rules and expect to win against the US Navy. That is assuming that other "interested parties" who use those straights as economic routes wouldn't also hire competent guns.
Other than that small thing, I think the rest of your post was not only insightful, but pretty much spot on.
- dogma1138 12y agoWell that's true to some extent, however with both straights under control Iran can attempt an asymmetric blockade. It did try to do it in the 80's and it caused havok with oil prices. While they can't beat the US navy they can always mine the gulfs and use anti ship missiles room shore. In any case in world politics you can always extort aslong as its cheaper to pay than it is to break you this is why north Korea gets aid from the west. And since breaking even a flimsy Iranian blockade will cost billions if not trillions they'll be able to get away with quite a bit just on the threat alone.
- SEJeff 12y agoAnd there is where you nail it. They get away with it due to the threat. It would be expensive, but they know full well they'd stand no chance should they put up a serious blockade. That is also why US Navy Carrier Strike Groups 3 and 10 are always within business distance of that area. Mutually assured threats. It is a sad world that we live in.