Iran attacked an oil tanker, killing two people inside.
“Unlawful and callous attack,” said British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. In his statement, Raab said it was “highly likely” Iran attacked the tanker with one or more drones. “We believe this attack was deliberate, targeted and a clear violation of international law by Iran,” he said. “Iran must end such attacks, and vessels must be allowed to navigate freely in accordance with international law.(ABC News).
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken soon followed, saying there was
“no justification for this attack, which follows a pattern of attacks
and other belligerent behavior.” Blinken similarly described the U.S. as “confident” Iran carried out the attack, using multiple drones. “These actions threaten freedom of navigation through this crucial waterway, international shipping and commerce, and the lives of those on the vessels involved.” (ABC News).
Another story notes “The ship was owned by a Japanese company but was managed by Israeli-owned Zodiac Maritime. Israeli officials have alleged this was the reason the tanker became a target” (Axios).
From the Wall Street Journal editorial board: Here’s an idea: Stop negotiating with Iran on a nuclear deal that would reward the regime by lifting sanctions and handing it cash and investment to finance new UAV and other attacks throughout the region and beyond. In recent weeks Iran has plotted to kill an Iranian-born U.S. citizen in New York City, encouraged its proxies to attack U.S. bases in Iraq, and accelerated its violations of the 2015 nuclear accord.
A new hardline President, Ebrahim Raisi, is taking power in Tehran and has said a renewed deal can contain no limits on Iran’s regional behavior. Instead of making more concessions, Mr. Biden should walk away and step up the sanctions (WSJ).
Bet Biden won't.
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