T,

In 1914, the nations acting did not think that the other nations would react as they did- ditto Germany in 1938-9. I believe that the Iranians will BELIEVE that they will not be obliterated, because that is what they wish to believe.

I agree with your assessments, but reality does not matter when it comes to the decisions of an absolute (religious) dictatorship. What is significant is what the nations involved THINK will happen. As long as the Left insists Obama will never attack Iran, the Iranians will act as if they can get away with an attack on Israel. Thus, comments like Bobert's are more likely to lead us into World War III (or IV, perhaps) than all the saber-rattling by Israel.

Remember what Hitler said about the Armenians, as he started to round up the Jews, Gypsies, et al.