Peace - Of course you're right. Pride is part of everyone's cultural identity (hopefully) but for Persian's it HUGE.

Ebbie - I know there is nothing wrong with fear. It is not, however, what motivates me. If you want to discuss this further, either PM me or start a separate thread on the subject.

Richard - Thats right. Read the article. There are no internationally recognized boundaries. I would guess, however, that the locals (Iran and Iraq) do have a working knowlege of the boundaries. Britain, on the other hand, is not local. Why were the Brits sent to patrol waters that were in dispute? Why does Britain think that they get to establish the boundaries?

I wouldn't doubt that Iran created this situation just so that Iraq and Iran could settle the question once and for all. With the threat of an invasion looming, its probably a good thing to have it absolutely clear. After all, Iran will want to protect its borders.

Lets hope that internationally recognized boundaries will be established, Britain will agree not to cross those boundaries and that the hostages will be returned shortly.