Obama: "I'm ready to negotiate with you, Iran." Iran: "Fuck you."

[piercehawkeye45]

Interesting. Whether Iran is bluffing or not, this proves that sanctions are starting to take it's toll against Iran. Also, by threatening to take the Straight of Hormuz, it implies that Iran would prefer conflict, or threat of conflict, with the West over giving up it's nuclear weapon program. Since neither Israel and the US or Iran is going to back off the nuclear weapon standoff, this could mean there is a higher probability that some larger conflict may erupt in the future.

My guess is that Iran is bluffing. Iran really has no means to hold the straight and the US Navy would quickly retake it by military force. It would cause chaotic oil prices for a bit, pissing everyone off, but I doubt would have any lasting effect. I just don't see the point.

Either sanctions are really hurting Iran or politicians are just beating their chests for the upcoming elections in March.