Iran Pulls A Noth Korea

Let's give the North Koreans credit - Iran is biting from their play book as news today reported missile tests by Iran which resulted in condemnation from the U.S. and which came on the heels of an admission that Iran did indeed have a hidden nuclear facility only a few days ago.

I say out of the play book because there are similarities between the two countries:

1) Timing - both countries have found a "convenient" way to have their missile tests coincide with an event of significance within the western or industrialized world...for North Korea, they have tested missiles on the 4th of July before. For Iran, this come just days before a G20 Summit meeting.

2) Nuclear controversy - the tests for both countries come at a time when the talks of their nuclear programs becomes a matter of public debate. As if to say, "hey, while ya'll are talking about our programs, let's REALLY give you something to talk about, and look wide-eyed and incredulous when you say that this is provocative!"

I think the missile launches for both are definitely a symbol of defiance to what is perceived to be "Western standards" or the western hand of dominance. Like a misguided expression of freedom, and a freedom of will exercised only by the authorities in power.

And just like North Korea, Iran is going to isolate itself with each blatant disregard of international expectations. It is one thing when the facts are unclear - there is wiggle room for the U.S. to fall on one side of the debate, and China and Russia to fall on the other. Ambiguity will leave these superpowers trying to convince each other of the truth, meanwhile Iran will go on using this distraction to do what it does either out in the open or under the radar.

But as I wrote in a post this past week, if these countries all get on the same page, and the larger international community follows suit, it will be increasingly difficult to hide behind the ambiguity surrounding actions in Iran. And flamboyant displays of "power" and "achievement" is not going to help their situation. Because no one will want to go for bat for them. Supporting Iran as they continue to disregard the requests of the international community is like being that person that picks the ball hog to play a pick-up game of basketball knowing that they always ruin the game with their selfishness and cheating. Then you get blamed for picking them.

Its not a good look Iran, but I am sure they already know that. Like I said this is just a play from the North Korea book - How to garner attention from the rest of the world - 1) Deny even the most obvious truth, 2) throw a tantrum for attention, 3) Repeat as necessary


Contributor, Young Writer's Block
Contributor, The Carmon Report