heric - "That was before I met the person who writes under that nom de plume, who is a first class person of character."

Thanks, but now you have blown my cover, I'm blushing.

I'd agree with Ron - What, besides pride, prevents an apology or a hostage exchange?

Its time like this that masculine ego infuriates me. Why not just swallow your pride and get everyone home safely instead of getting your feathers ruffled and starting a war? Finger pointing never solves anything. Accepting your part of the problem goes a long way toward arriving at a solution. Lets face it, Britain can hardly be called an innocent victim.

btw - Iranians are not "my friends". I would hate to live under the Mullahs or Arabian Politicians. I do, however, admire Persian culture, especially their scholarship. I actually think that they are much more advanced in their military strategies and tactics. They make the west look like bumbling idiots. Thats what I mean when I say, be careful when you play with the big boys.