From: "Phil Payne" 

http://www.worldtribune.com/worldtribune/07/front2454153.0444444446.html

"We consider this moment in time unprecedented in terms of the amount
of insecurity and instability that is in the region," U.S. Fifth Fleet
commander Vice Adm. Patrick Walsh said.

"Although our presence in the Arabian Gulf is for defensive and not
offensive purposes, the U.S. will take military action if ships are
attacked or if countries in the region are targeted or U.S. troops come
under direct attack," Walsh added.



Huh!?!?  8,000 miles from home and fifty miles from the Iranian coast?
"Defensive"?  Of what, exactly?

If there's _anything_ increasing tension in the Gulf, it's the unwelcome
presence of two US carrier battle groups.

--
  Phil Payne
  http://www.isham-research.co.uk
  +44 7833 654 800

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