Iran: America's disastrous military option

Iran and the United States are now on a collision course. Despite warnings from America and Europe, who fear that Iran is developing nuclear weapons, Iran has resumed enriching uranium, with its new hard-line president, Mahmoud Ahmedinejad, insisting it has a right to do so under the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty for peaceful purposes. President George W. Bush has reacted by declaring all options open, including military action, which has drawn a stiff rebuke not only from Tehran, but also from Chancellor Gerhard Schröder of Germany, one of America's allies. Israel is also reported to have plans for targeting Iran's nuclear facilities. But the use of force against Iran could prove to be very costly for all sides. Iran has the capacity to respond in several nonmilitary and military ways in the event of a confrontation.