The Middle East Situation

Iraq has continued to display its determination to cripple Kharg and keep it closed, and Gulf tensions have continued to rise accordingly. With their oil exports substantially disrupted, Iranian leaders have repeated their threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, while President Reagan has reiterated the US commitment to keeping international oil lanes open. But despite the obvious dangers, neither Iran nor the US appears eager to embark on a collision course.

Iran...