The mainstream media has been almost completely silent regarding the latest move to punish Iran in the form of House Resolution 362, which is moving rapidly through the system and will undoubtedly be passed by a large margin in congress.  The resolution, written by Gary Ackerman, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East, and sponsored by a host of other congressmen from both parties, is non-binding but it calls for a naval blockade of Iranian ports to stop the import of finished petroleum products.  Iran produces only a small portion of its own fuel and its economy would grind to a halt if the bill is implemented.  Many commentators including Pat Buchanan have noted that a blockade would be an act of war even though the bill stipulates that it should not be regarded as approval for military action.  AIPAC is lobbying strongly for passage and as we all know whatever AIPAC wants it usually gets. 

Opponents of possible war with Iran have been far too optimistic of late thinking that there is just no way a new conflict can begin given the weakened state of US forces, forgetting that war can be entered into incrementally.  HR 362, even if it is not implemented, makes it more difficult for Iran’s political leadership to accept any compromise on any issue with the United States while at the same time reducing the possibility that Washington will be able to speak to the Mullahs.  That is precisely what AIPAC wants, “narrowing the options” as David Wurmser once told the American Enterprise Institute.  And if  Tel Aviv attacks Iran is there any doubt but that congress will vote nearly unanimously to support the “embattled” Israelis? And that the mainstream media will also be cheering them on?