Iran Threat to Commercial Shipping

Its feared Iran is preparing to close the Strait of Hormuz where between 15-16 million barrels of oil pass through daily or about 20% of the worlds oil production.

Naval analysts believe Iran may plan an assault on U.S. Naval Forces with the use of bottom tethered mines, potentially capable of destroying an aircraft carrier. Iranian Revolutionary Guard have identified other potential targets which include Saudi Oil production and exporting centers.

Recently a video was released that may be seen on the Internet at: http://www.liveleak.com/view/?i=df9_1182151740 which shows that Iranian Navy Commandos principal attacks would be on shipping, Iran has purchased a wide range of Russian sea mines.

Since Iranian shore lines are narrow, Iran could likewise potentially strike targets by land, sea or air, quickly hitting both commercial and military shipping that would halt maritime traffic. Michael Knights writing in Jane's Intelligence Review has said, "...Iran could use its Russian built Kilo-Class submarines in the Indian Ocean, to force U.S. Naval ships to proceed much more slowly towards Iran's coastline..."

Iran has increased it's presence of small attack speed boats and continues to add additional speed boats equipped with with anti ship cruise missiles according to Robert Althage, spokesperson for the U.S. Navy office of Intelligence.

U.S. and it's Allies Naval forces continue to build up near Iran to make certain that shipping lanes remain open to commercial traffic. Currently it's been reported that the U.S. Navy has deployed 3 Battle Groups to the area under the Command of Vice Admiral Kevin Cosgriff.

The Bush Administration has indicated the Navy presence in the area is to protect shipping and has warned Iran that the development of a nuclear capability will not be tolerated. According to Mossad, plans have been established to launch an attack on Iranian Nuclear Sites and other strategic industrial locations inside of Iran.

Islamic explicit messages to annihilate Israel and the USA are being taken very seriously as the tyrannical radicals continue to threaten the peace and security in our free and open societies.