Iran Intercepted Another Tanker-UK

[Drummond]

I heard that. It could be. I can't really come up with another reason.

There's really nothing Iran can do to win anything if everyone concerned just shut them down. The Strait can be re-opened with gunboat diplomacy easy enough. So, being the GySgt that I am, I am looking for the something we aren't seeing.

Our media have made the same point, saying that sanctions are biting hard. Which will mean that Iran will have to make its actions count, which in turn means that countering reactions HAVE to be tough ones. It isn't just that us Brits shouldn't dither ... we have to prevent even the appearance of it.

So, if there is an appreciable gap in any clear response, when it does come, it HAS to be a tough one.

I want to hear of one, in the shortest possible time.

What bothers me is that the UK political position on sanctions, and the whole ending of the nuke deal, was one where we wanted to be more conciliatory to Iran than the American side did, under Trump. If we're still mired in the hope of diplomacy finding a 'fudge' outcome, as we have been, recently .. how readily will the UK abandon it ? If we're still stupid enough not to, there's no way Tehran won't interpret that as weakness. Which is the last thing that's needed, obviously.

[Kathianne]

They are attacking UK (flagged) shipping. We are their bestest friend

If the US and UK alone wanted to re-open the Gulf by force, not much could stop them.

Maybe, but for the first time I can recall, it sounds like the US may not jump.

[Drummond]

Maybe, but for the first time I can recall, it sounds like the US may not jump.

In all honesty, after the disgusting Darroch business, I couldn't blame your side at all if it was reluctant to help. We're supposed to be a friend and ally; something Darroch betrayed, big-time. You appreciate a friend; you don't go around backstabbing that friend, as Darroch did.

Maybe this is one time when it might be a good thing if we totally stood on our own two feet over this. It's difficult to conclude that we don't deserve to, all things considered.

[Kathianne]

Our media have made the same point, saying that sanctions are biting hard. Which will mean that Iran will have to make its actions count, which in turn means that countering reactions HAVE to be tough ones. It isn't just that us Brits shouldn't dither ... we have to prevent even the appearance of it.

So, if there is an appreciable gap in any clear response, when it does come, it HAS to be a tough one.

I want to hear of one, in the shortest possible time.

What bothers me is that the UK political position on sanctions, and the whole ending of the nuke deal, was one where we wanted to be more conciliatory to Iran than the American side did, under Trump. If we're still mired in the hope of diplomacy finding a 'fudge' outcome, as we have been, recently .. how readily will the UK abandon it ? If we're still stupid enough not to, there's no way Tehran won't interpret that as weakness. Which is the last thing that's needed, obviously.

Looks like you called it, seems they basically have called on Iran to 'let their ship go...or face serious repercussions down the road...or something.' (I'm sorry, it reminds me of "Team America," and the strongly worded letter from the UN to Kim...

[Drummond]

Looks like you called it, seems they basically have called on Iran to 'let their ship go...or face serious repercussions down the road...or something.' (I'm sorry, it reminds me of "Team America," and the strongly worded letter from the UN to Kim...

The 'or something' is where we now stand, apparently.

I've woken up to learn that Jeremy Hunt has had 'stern words' with whatever (or whoever) the chief Iranian diplomat to hand is called ... where Jeremy's 'disappointment' has been firmly relayed to him.

There will be, it seems, 'serious consequences' if Iran doesn't correct what it's done.

And ... that's it.

Jeremy Hunt feels the way forward is to find a diplomatic solution.

Evidence that Iran is quaking in its boots has yet to emerge (.. but is expected, by Jingo, any time now !! ..) ..

Some good news ! France and Germany have (in a break from their combative Brexit posturings) come out in support of us. We know this is true, because they say so. What's more, the BBC confirms it ! That's all right, then ! Whoopee.

-- So. Clearly, our people have yet to wake up to the truth of the nature of the regime they're dealing with. Who knows, maybe they never will. I think we have a psychology that's been spoonfed to us by our traitorous Left over generations, one of deference to foreign cultures, and it's reached such an emasculating pitch that we're strongly biased towards finding the weakest, most deferential outcomes to serious issues that we can.

Jeremy Hunt, apparently, buys into that psychology (I hope I'm wrong, and that he's just playing for time, & has other measures in mind) . Me ... I've hopes that if / when Boris Johnson wins the PM role, he'll show he is made of sterner stuff.

We'll see. That is, if we have any ships left, by that time ........

[Kathianne]

FOX is reporting that Hunt said, "No military action."

It's their ship, I don't see the US acting for this. If Britain won't, why would we?

Now I do think the US will be aggressive if defense for our own interests, including any military vessels we have in the area. The drone take down being the latest example.

[Drummond]

FOX is reporting that Hunt said, "No military action."

It's their ship, I don't see the US acting for this. If Britain won't, why would we?

Now I do think the US will be aggressive if defense for our own interests, including any military vessels we have in the area. The drone take down being the latest example.

Exactly. Couldn't agree more.

I think that your last paragraph helps explain why Iran is altogether more keen to take the UK on. Iran responds properly when shown strength (i.e they know some degree of caution is advisable). But, diplomacy ? Iran might see it as a means to manipulate, but otherwise, I don't think they have any time for it. I'm convinced they'll see Hunt's handling of all this as weak, maybe laughable, and if anything, they'll probably be spurred on to be even more belligerent in the face of it.

[Kathianne]

Exactly. Couldn't agree more.

I think that your last paragraph helps explain why Iran is altogether more keen to take the UK on. Iran responds properly when shown strength (i.e they know some degree of caution is advisable). But, diplomacy ? Iran might see it as a means to manipulate, but otherwise, I don't think they have any time for it. I'm convinced they'll see Hunt's handling of all this as weak, maybe laughable, and if anything, they'll probably be spurred on to be even more belligerent in the face of it.

I’m glad we’re sending more troops to the area, but Rand Paul too. That seems to be at The behest of Iran.

[jimnyc]

Just spoke 2 Iranian FM Zarif &expressed extreme disappointment that having assured me last Sat Iran wanted 2 deescalate situation they have behaved in the opposite way.This has 2 be about actions not words if we are to find a way through.British shipping must & will be protected

What I would have written to Iran:

"Iran has 24 hours to release our ships and any of our citizens. If not released, or if a single hair is harmed on any of our citizens bodies, you will feel the full weight of our military capabilities. Do not over-estimate your capabilities nor underestimate ours. Our determination is beyond measurement. You will be set back 50 years in various capabilities and sanctions will look like peanuts.

In addition, the United States of America stands by our side. With several carrier ships in waiting and bored men on battleships. Lead by the most sophisticated artillery and technology, the ability to decimate your abilities is a given. Jets in waiting and the best pilots in the world prepared to navigate them freely over all Iranian territory. Again, do not underestimate the support of our ally, who is already in the region. Do you know what a "big stick is?" - "America will remind you: A Great People Has Been Moved to Defend a Great Nation - They will not waver; they will not tire; they will not falter, and they will not fail. Peace and Freedom will prevail."


I can't say for sure about the 2nd portion, but I would love too!


A few updates:

HIJACK TERROR Dramatic moment Iran seizes Brit oil tanker as balaclava-clad commandos abseil onto deck from helicopter in the Gulf

DRAMATIC footage shows balaclava-clad Iranian commandos hijacking a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz.

Video released today captures the moment Tehran troops abseil onto the stricken ship with 23 crew on board last night.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard launched a gunboat and helicopter raid on the Stena Impero, which is registered in the UK, claiming it had turned off its tracker and ignored warnings.

Another vessel, the Mesdar, was also intercepted and forced towards Iranian territory in what appeared to be a co-ordinated strike.

Footage shows speedboats surrounding the stricken vessel before the commandos storm the ship.

Rest - https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/954789...r-seized-gulf/


Video:




Britain warns Iran of 'serious consequences' if British-flagged oil tanker not released

LONDON — Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned Iran of "serious consequences" if it does not release a British-flagged oil tanker it seized in the strategic Strait of Hormuz waterway on Friday, although he ruled out "military options."

Hunt announced later in a tweet that he had spoken with Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and "expressed extreme disappointment" that Iran had "behaved in the opposite way" of trying to deescalate the situation.

The seizing of the "Stena Impero" potentially marks the most significant escalation in tensions between Iran and the West since they began rising in May, about a year after the United States pulled out of an international accord aimed at Iran's nuclear program.

The Pentagon announced it authorized the movement of troops to Saudi Arabia as an "additional deterrent," adding to the 1,000 troops deployed to the Middle East in June.

The showdown has caused concerns around the globe, with each maneuver bringing fear that any misunderstanding or misstep by either side could lead to war.

Just spoke 2 Iranian FM Zarif &expressed extreme disappointment that having assured me last Sat Iran wanted 2 deescalate situation they have behaved in the opposite way.This has 2 be about actions not words if we are to find a way through.British shipping must & will be protected

— Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt) July 20, 2019

[jimnyc]

I’m glad we’re sending more troops to the area, but Rand Paul too. That seems to be at The behest of Iran.

From the past few months to the recent past - if they want the same, Rand is wasting time.

They spoke of a new deal - end all sanctions permanently for them to come back to peace. And also reinstating Obama's crap. Hopefully that's not what they push for!

[Kathianne]

From the past few months to the recent past - if they want the same, Rand is wasting time.

They spoke of a new deal - end all sanctions permanently for them to come back to peace. And also reinstating Obama's crap. Hopefully that's not what they push for!

He has the President's permission to go. Bottom line though, Iran asked for Rand Paul and got him.

[jimnyc]

He has the President's permission to go. Bottom line though, Iran asked for Rand Paul and got him.

Oh I have no issue with him going, and some form of resolution would be great. I just don't trust them in the slightest, and saw the crap demands they had to date.

With their refusal, even w/ sanctions, and ever growing threats - I am not sure if they are this stupid, or are they playing games to get a deal, and wouldn't go "too far".

That too far has been exceeded by many thoughts, and if not, perilously close.

[Kathianne]

Oh I have no issue with him going, and some form of resolution would be great. I just don't trust them in the slightest, and saw the crap demands they had to date.

With their refusal, even w/ sanctions, and ever growing threats - I am not sure if they are this stupid, or are they playing games to get a deal, and wouldn't go "too far".

That too far has been exceeded by many thoughts, and if not, perilously close.

I have to agree, they've really pushed by 'close.'

[Drummond]

What I would have written to Iran:

"Iran has 24 hours to release our ships and any of our citizens. If not released, or if a single hair is harmed on any of our citizens bodies, you will feel the full weight of our military capabilities. Do not over-estimate your capabilities nor underestimate ours. Our determination is beyond measurement. You will be set back 50 years in various capabilities and sanctions will look like peanuts.

In addition, the United States of America stands by our side. With several carrier ships in waiting and bored men on battleships. Lead by the most sophisticated artillery and technology, the ability to decimate your abilities is a given. Jets in waiting and the best pilots in the world prepared to navigate them freely over all Iranian territory. Again, do not underestimate the support of our ally, who is already in the region. Do you know what a "big stick is?" - "America will remind you: A Great People Has Been Moved to Defend a Great Nation - They will not waver; they will not tire; they will not falter, and they will not fail. Peace and Freedom will prevail."


I can't say for sure about the 2nd portion, but I would love too!


A few updates:

HIJACK TERROR Dramatic moment Iran seizes Brit oil tanker as balaclava-clad commandos abseil onto deck from helicopter in the Gulf

DRAMATIC footage shows balaclava-clad Iranian commandos hijacking a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz.

Video released today captures the moment Tehran troops abseil onto the stricken ship with 23 crew on board last night.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard launched a gunboat and helicopter raid on the Stena Impero, which is registered in the UK, claiming it had turned off its tracker and ignored warnings.

Another vessel, the Mesdar, was also intercepted and forced towards Iranian territory in what appeared to be a co-ordinated strike.

Footage shows speedboats surrounding the stricken vessel before the commandos storm the ship.

Rest - https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/954789...r-seized-gulf/


Video:




Britain warns Iran of 'serious consequences' if British-flagged oil tanker not released

LONDON — Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned Iran of "serious consequences" if it does not release a British-flagged oil tanker it seized in the strategic Strait of Hormuz waterway on Friday, although he ruled out "military options."

Hunt announced later in a tweet that he had spoken with Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and "expressed extreme disappointment" that Iran had "behaved in the opposite way" of trying to deescalate the situation.

The seizing of the "Stena Impero" potentially marks the most significant escalation in tensions between Iran and the West since they began rising in May, about a year after the United States pulled out of an international accord aimed at Iran's nuclear program.

The Pentagon announced it authorized the movement of troops to Saudi Arabia as an "additional deterrent," adding to the 1,000 troops deployed to the Middle East in June.

The showdown has caused concerns around the globe, with each maneuver bringing fear that any misunderstanding or misstep by either side could lead to war.

I like your draft.

You beat me to it. I planned to post that Jeremy Hunt had ratcheted up the stakes ... by saying he was now 'extremely disappointed' with Iran.

Good to see that Jeremy so much as acknowledges the appropriateness of 'action' (though rules out military options ?), considering that just hours earlier, he was expressing a wish for a diplomatic solution. As for what that action is ... nobody, as yet, has a clue. Not military. Not just diplomatic ? Might he start typing increasingly rude Tweets at Iran ??

Aha -- a masterstroke. That'll teach 'em !!

An interesting feature of all this is that Jeremy Hunt is Boris Johnson's contender for the race to become Conservative Party leader, therefore, also our new PM. The outcome of that contest is just days away. How he handles this whole issue may have a pivotal bearing on his chances for beating Boris.

We have a test of Jeremy Hunt's Prime Ministerial mettle at a highly appropriate time. Jeremy must be aware of his situation. Will he win votes ? Will he lose them ? Is he fit to be our Prime Minister, coping with the 'tough times' in the job ?

We shall see.

Jeremy may become not just disappointed, but resolute, in the coming hours. Goody.

I'm betting Jeremy Corbyn will condemn him should he show any aggressive tendencies towards Iran ... Jeremy's a Leftie, don't y'know ...

[Gunny]

https://www.oann.com/iran-says-uk-fl...-bander-abbas/

I like this. The US perspective of a British-Iran issue The US gets injected at every chance