Iran darkened its tone on Tuesday by citing that it would use pre-emptive action if its national interests were threatened and by laying down new conditions for oil sales. Iran has already cut off sales to Britain and France, and has warned that they may cut off other (more dependent upon Iranian oil) EU countries. Their statement of pre-emptive attack is thought to be a statement to Israel because of speculation that Israel may be contemplating a military strike on Iran's nuclear facilities. Iran continues to maintain that its nuclear program is peaceful, yet they have had two IEAE visits in three weeks. The IEAE cites that the visits are purely negotiation based, not inspection based. The agency wants Iran's cooperation, not alienation.
Back to the issue of oil, Iran's oil minister stated that continued "hostile" actions from the EU countries will be dealt with by cutting off oil supply, which could cripple the already weak EU economy. The EU buys 18% of its oil from Iran, this percentage especially important to Italy, Greece, and Spain. Iran could also be very hurt by cutting off its oil supply to other countries, but it is hard to know what outcome Iran really wants. This article compares Iranian relations with other countries to a poker game, each player "maneuver[ing] for advantage with no way of knowing their opponent's ultimate intentions". The situation is ever intensifying.
http://nyti.ms/wV0ZCH
Jill Laumbacher
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