15 soldiers taken hostage. Teaching of the Holocaust in Britain suspended so as not to offend Muslim children. Religious sensitivity seminars on Islam to high gov't officials. Disuse of the words Islamic and Terrorism together. Building of the largest mosque in the world.

Face it, England. The only thing left for you to do is stock up on prayer rugs and burqas and learn the Koran inside out. Because you'll never know when your future religious police will beat you for not knowing a particular passage.
And let's keep those ankles from showing, ladies. Wouldn't want to be gang-raped for being undressed meat.

It was a nice empire while it lasted. Tally Ho, Cheerio and Allah Akbar!

TheMadKing, Nashua, NH USA

It is disgraceful that Iran has taken 15 navy personnel hostage and obviously diplomatic negotiations are difficult with people with this kind of mentality. The government should look at sending in a task force to bring out our people. Countries like Iran know they can easily manipulate us. Why is it we can send troops into a war with the USA in Iraq when the motives are questionable but cannot make a stand and show the world we will not tolerate this kind of behaviour when our own people are at risk and are being used as puppets.

Lesley, Witham , United Kingdom

Ron in Middlesborough, Faye Turney "Capitulated" on TV as you put it, as that is now the direct instruction from the Military.

Instead of only giving Name Rank and Number, captured soldiers are told to say anything their captors want, in order to keep them safe. The reason for this is that any sane minded person would know full well that the statements made were made under duress, and thus, useless.

You obviously, and unbelievably, fell for Iranian propaganda. And your an Englishman for god sakes !!

Damian, Manchester, UK

I just think that they should just free the hostages and let them get back to thier familes of back to thier ship, the politicians should do what they are paid to do and play the politics game, the iranians need to know that the un and nato and the british government will not stand for this much longer, we all want to live in peace, but unfortunatly some people do not , but if they do not want to live in peace then they should just sort it out between themselves. There is no way that with gps etc and all the technology that we have these days that those boats were in iranan water, they would not have done that as they knew that a political storm would erupt if they did. The un and nato have put sanctions on iran for a reason, that is all different countrys and not just the british and the u.s.a., The british government must not give any concessions at all, if they do it will be the beginning of the end as iran will pull stunts like this all the time.FREE THE HOSTAGES.

tina price, south wales, united kingdom

after a posting of my own, I spent a great deal of time reading every post -and I cannot believe how some authors actually believe Britian or America can be responsible for this criminal act by the Iranians - its not Pres. Bush's fault that the Iranians are more interested in capturing British marines than patroling for smugglers, & its not Mr. Blair's fault that Iran ambushed & captured the Marines for a second time BUT it is Mr. Blair's fault for not holding the Iranian govt to account with military strikes in 2004, as I am confidant that with them there would have been no seizure in 2007 . You do not placate a bully -even a comically impudent bully such as Iran, with a handful of missiles - you smack him in the mouth, expose his bluster & pay the price for victory . Is this the same British populace of WWII - should have we not landed in Normandy because Hitler had guns there? Isnt this WHEN you go to war-times like this? If not, disband your Army & start speaking French !

mike, New york, New York, USA

As an American who is very proud to call the Brisith our greatest friend and ally, I believe it is time for the British government to demand the immediate release of the hostages, and give the Iranians a few hours to comply - if not, distroy a few oil terminals a la Pres. Reagan did in the 80's - following those strikes, the Iranian government both began back-door negotiations to free hostages in Lebanon, and world-terror sponsored by Iran came to a screaching halt. Much as the British did with the Falklands, it is time to remind everyone Britian is a world power of considerable might - ask yourselves why have the consequences for such outrages been limited to counting on the EU and the UN, rather than the RAF and Royal navy???

mike, New york, New York, USA

If, and only IF, all peaceful and diplomatic options are exhausted then the UK should consider using it's considerable might to soften the Iranian stance. You can all talk about what kind of missiles the Iranians have but don't think for one second that one of the most technologically advanced armies doesn't have the ability to locate and neutralize these threats before they ever become apparent. The RAF is one of the worlds premier strike forces, and with some help from our ever present allies the US the Iranian regime doesn't stand a chance.

The days are gone when the numbers of men and how many swords you have matters most. Combined, strategic air strikes from the RAF and US Air Force will decimate the ground forces involved, just like in the first gulf war.

I pray it does not go that far, but if it does, we should thump em right on the nose, if we don't we will never be taken seriously as a world power.

Luke, ., UK expat in USA

This is an idea !! why you don't just invade Iran like you did in Iraq. You seem appreciate getting advantages from this kind of opportunity to invade and take down sovreign countries !
I just read above that it's the US who is providing security and comfortable rest chairs to european countries and make the "world a safe place". Let's just tell this In any place on this world in which there is a military conflict going US military forces, government or intellegency have an arm on it and this include british forces with a minor degree. JUST leave people live in PEACE.

John Matthwes, Stockholm, Sweden

Sadly we are in a tit for tat peeing competition that will no doubt cost innocent lives i guess we see the configuration of the stars the constellations but not the stars them selves human life is most precious not territory religion or politcs

liamMichael, dublin , eire

If, for the Iranians, this incident would reflect for them the true position of world opinion, that might be against them in their nuclear program - if they press on, it also shows, by the very nature of how fragmented a response we have got from Iran over this crisis, just how absolutely dangerous a nuclear armed Iran would be to the world!

How could a potential future nuclear incident be reconciled with Iran (in the way the Cuban Missile crisis was with Russia), when iran talks with so many different contradicting voices over this crisis!? Surely it must be better to prevent a Nuclear armed Iran from ever existing, until they show themselves responsible enough!? Which, I doubt we will see in our life time!

Geoff, Portsmouth, Britian

I don't support a war. I don't support what this government is doing to it's OWN people in it's OWN country, either. That's why I am not alone on this. This government has taxed us to death..treated us like dirt..removed our civil liberties and is well on it's way to creating a Big Brother society. We are nearly at this stage.

Maybe when this governments starts listening, then the action will be of a reciprical nature. Until then Blair, it's propaganda that is falling on deaf ears. We've seen it and we've heard it before so please..have your war if you must. Leave the sane world out of it.

We have problems in this country and maybe it's time all the cameras pointed the other way. You're not listening.

Will, London, UK

i think it is disgusting that our troops are not armed to the extent, a foreign power would try to arrest our troops thinking we are easy and a political target.
we should take the troops back by force and show we are not an easy power for the next country

jim wright, edinburgh, scotland

I am a member of the Armed Forces of the US. I spent 1 year in the waters of the gulf operating small boats. The members of the Royal Navy and Marines were doing there jobs. If the Iranians thought they were in their waters, they could have told them to leave. This did not happen. This event was what the Iranians were waiting for. They took advantage of an opportunity. They will exploit this to the fullest. The sailors and Marines captured were the victims, not the Iranians. Liberals always blame the victims, but they are never the ones actually doing anything, just armchair quaterbacking. Make no mistake, we the Armed forces of the US will not forget who has stood with us. To the people of the UK, "We shall stand by you as you stood by us". We will be here if you need us,
God Bless the UK

Timothy , Cleveland,, USA/Ohio

dear unapologetic, in washington, dc.

apparently, we in the US do NOT know when to say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH --
we are still in IRAQ.

we DID invade a soverign country. we DON'T seem to care that our soldiers are being killed by the thousands. NO ONE in this country has had to make ANY sacrifice for this war, except the families who have lost sons, brothers, sisters, fathers, and mothers.

dear UK. some of us in the US are angry and embarrassed and will, i promise, will fight to regain the trust of the rest of the world.

TC, New York, NY

Given this stunning opportunity to put Iran down, I only hope that the UK & the USA take full advantage and finish what we've begun in Iraq, in Iran.

Donald Roppolo, Centennial, co

Everyone seems to think the US likes to invade any country it wants but consider this. Were we in Iraq or Afghanistan before 9/11? No. Did we attack any country while our overseas interests were being continuously attacked throughout the 1990's or even on our own soil in 1992? No. Did we attack Iran after they held our citizens, at gunpoint, hostage for over a year? No. We hate war; do you think we like hearing about our soldiers getting killed? No, its just that we know when to say enough is enough and stand up for ourselves.

Also it sure is popular for you Europeans to tell us Americans how militant and immoral we are as you sit comfortably and safe under a blanket of protection that we provide. Imagine the US removing all security agreements we have with Europe and then wonder why the leaders of your countries never reflect the unrelenting anti-americanism that their citizens so proudly shout. It's because they acutally appreciate and understand what we do for you!

Unapologetic, Washington, DC,

It should be very clear to everyone that Iran is trying to see how much they can get away with. They are like a skinny little punk with a gun that thinks there tough and tries to prove it to everyone by waiving the gun around. The pictures of the women with that rag around her head infuriates me, I highly doubt she would want to where that which suggests she is being forced to wear it. And the statement she made on Iranian television was no doubt forced as well. What outrages me even more is how nice the their government seems to be about it. Those servicemen were out there doing there part in what I would like to think is trying to make this world a better place. For Iran to do what they did unprovoked is their way of spitting in all of our faces, no matter if your british, american, canadian, or from any other free nation, and I would like to see a little more emotion about what has happened. I really hope those hostages make it home unharmed, and the opposite for Iranian Tyranny.

Ryan Turner, Vancouver, Canada

For those of you that keep stating how fiece Iran military is. You need to think long and hard. Do you honoestly believe that because Iran has all those missiles that we would be sitting ducks. The United States and Even British Forces who consider our only true friends and brothers. Are by far technologically more advanced then Iran those missiles that have we made over 30 years ago and have developed many ways to stop them in mid-air. These nations you speak of have weaponary that people have yet to lay eyes on and the few we have been given the right to see are amazing ever hard of Sword? or The crusher? look into what the military already has or has had that you have not yet been given the chance to look at and I promise you will rethink your so called sitting ducks senario. As for the iran conflict i hope it is resolved peacefully. Those british Men and Women come home safe. But if they dont Iran must pay the consequence of its actions. God bless America and Britian

Daniel J Amores, Miami, Florida

Nice one, Britain is in no position to start a military conflict with Iran, not now. I am sure they will negotiate under the table, Britain has to come out of this with whatever pride they might have left and Iran needs to show its people they will not bend under Western pressure; I am sure the soldiers will not be harmed and I am also sure the Iranians are bribing them with release for statements which would back up their claim they were in Iranian waters.

jakub, toronto,

If this happened in 2004, why weren't measures in place (like some attack helicopters with serious fire power overseeing the operation), also with a clear warning to Iran that, whilst they would be allowed to verbally dispute the position of our navy - regards their border, any attempt to seize British service men, or equipment, in the way that happened in 2004, would be met with deadly force - if the same occurred a second time! At least more helicopters might have warned the navy crew of the approaching Iranian boats in time; they might have beaten a hasty retreat in their fast speed boats!
Maybe their first step, get , through the UN, an agreement with iran, about the exact position of the Iran – Iraq border, that would make another seizure harder to justify! Maybe our activities should have involved a country iran and Britain would regard as neutral.
I think comments about the women crew member letting us down are simply unfair! they have her under pressure!

Geoff, Portsmouth, Britian

Whatever GB decides to do, we Americans, as always, will support you in action. Just as you always have supported us whether in agreement or not.

Paul, Orlando, USA

..coming up on ANY US ship would simply be called a " suicide mission " these crazy towell heads wouldnt be takin any of our boys away.

Randy, Chicago, IL, USA

Personally, I think its appauling, the tightness of the budget givent to defence, restraints on services such as the Royal air force, means that as operational commitments increase, the avaliability of the armed services is getting lower. i just cant see how the govt. can be so naieve as to continue to squeeze the already streched armed forces of funding, and expect worldwide miracles.

Futhermore it is quite clear that Iran is lying about the position of the sailors, as it did in 2004. I beleive that international condemnation will make no difference what so ever. Clearly the Iranians have some sort of plan, and diplomacy will never effectivley change these sort of governments.

Best of luck to them

Chris, Leatherhead, SURREY

USA! USA! USA!

Go ..........USS JOHN C. STENNIS

dan, lincs, England UK

Having watched faye turney publicly capitulate in order to get home quick. I suggest we ask the Iranians to keep her there.

ron, middlesbrough,

Absolutely the American approach would have resulted in armed conflict; ergo, the iranians snatched BRITISH sailors, not American ones. Too bad the iranians don't have the same fear of the British military; those sailors would be free right now, and Britain wouldn't have to go with hat in hand to the UN to ask for support.

Sometimes, I think there are more Americans loyal to England than English sometimes.

Yank, Washington, DC

I’m sure the men onboard HMS Cornwall were very aware of the tension between the west and Iran.
Our Sailors and Royal Marines displayed the discipline and professionalism they are renowned for. Their actions not only saved their lives, but potentially many more! The American approach to this situation would have probably resulted in armed conflict, The Sailors and Marines fighting an overwhelming force of Iran’s revolutionary guard, would have been killed, and the potential for more bloodshed would have been increased dramatically.

God bless our Armed forces as they keep up the good work.

Ben, Hereford, UK

I think its sad that our Nation that once ruled the ways ahs to be put down by Iran. I think we should take military action - but how copuld we do not have much of a military under thsi goverment.

The PM requires to look at our defence buget in reality it should be double the size with the commitments we have overseass.

Mr Jones, Sttaford, UK

I know British people more loyal to England then the english (there is a difference).

Lets get our people back safely then we can continue to be moan-e Britain

Nav, coventry, UK

I’m sure the men onboard HMS Cornwall were very aware of the tension between the west and Iran.
Our Sailors and Marines displayed the discipline and professionalism they are renowned for. Their actions not only saved their lives, but potentially many more! The American approach to this situation would have probably resulted in armed conflict, The Sailors and Marines fighting an overwhelming force of Iran’s revolutionary guard, would have been killed, and the potential for more bloodshed would have been increased dramatically.

God bless our Armed forces as they keep up the good work.

Ben, Hereford,

prescott as a good point,but the trouble with being british and speaking your mind,ie the football hooligan stance of wipe the floor with iran,you would probably get locked up,the libs have so many laws against free speech,this event under maggie would have seen the veins bursting out of her neck in rage,and im sure some kind of direct action,blair on tv looks like he,s just stepped into the ladies by mistake,the point being fifteen lifes of british servicemen and women have no real value to this goverment,much more important is pandering to the shocking number of of non british in this crowded isle,or will i wake from my bad dream and find out that blair has at last grown a spine,

H, birmingham, england

Here's an idea. How about leaving them (the 15) locked up until Iran decides to let them go. After all, they've let themselves, the RN, and the Country down. And, put the UK in a very awkward position to boot.

While we're at it, how about a courts-marshall for the commander of HMS Cornwall (for deriliction of duty, or simply being incompetent/incapable/useless). Also, how about performing basic IQ tests on all new recruits (commisioned officers especially).

Really, what are we going to do about this ? Use harsh language ?
There's nothing we can do.

The best armed forces in the world ? My ar*e.

Annoyed, Nottingham, England, UK.

"They don’t realize how repulsive that is to a BBC tainted UK audience."


It's not the support, it's the incessant calls for violence.

We don't mind "I hope they come back safely" but we do mind "nuke them".

Seriously, a lot of the posts on here sound like they come from rednecks.

Starling, Lancaster,

Prescott of Birmingham USA,

You write a damn good post. We definitely need to wake up, pity help us.

One beleaguered Brit.

Linda, Birmingham, England

I hate to beat a dead horse, but many of the posters here that claim they are American, are obviously not. Their sentence structure, grammer and word choices sound quite akward to the American Ear. So I ask you pretenders be intellectually honest. Discuss this issue without having to resort to ugly propaganda. Do you have so little faith in your own position that you must stoop down to this level of dishonesty? I have so much respect for the British Navy and am saddened at what it has devolved into. I blame politicians for tarnishing the once glowing reputation of the Royal Navy. Iran has been shipping sniper rifles to Iraq, Iranian agents have been caught in Iraq trying to contaminate a water supply, they just caught 5 Iranian Agents in Iraq including a General of the Revolutionary Guard. This is just an instance of Iran's escalation of tensions with the West that have been quite evident since 1979. Oh Britannia recall the glory that was yours! Churchill not Chamberlin! Milton cries..

Carlos Miller, Los Angeles, California

Don't British warships have radar? They didn't notice these Iranian gun boats closing in on their rubber dingies??
Don't the Brits carry weapons in a warzone???
If I were a relative of any of these hostages I would be quite furious at both the Iranian dirtbags AND the impidant British Navy. How pathetic!

Erik Johansen, Tacoma, WA

Fair enough, something needs to be done - but would one of the nitwits calling for the SAS to be sent in, ring Hereford and tell them exactly where our personnel are being held, or are they supposed to ask around when they've been dropped off?

Homer, London,

I lack the knowledge to interpret the political ramifications of this incident. My heart goes out for the individuals. The British Marines, that include a woman. They do not deserve this, and certainly their parents don't deserve this. They did no harm Iran or Iranians in any way did they? I feel for them as if they were Spanish Marines. God Bless them.

R.A.Insua, A Coruña, Spain

Iran is a hardline nation with a regime that supports itself through establishing clear external threats, through which it can suppress the moderate voices through propaganda and rhetoric.

My opinion is that incidents such as these are used to reinforce this mentality, and support these fundamentalist elements. Their primary objective is not to antagonise the West, but to draw criticism from external 'enemies' in order to feed the fear of the people that supports their regime.

Drive towards a policy of inclusion and openness with Iran and the hardline elements will topple into obscurity as the moderates find their voice. They still won't be pro-western or democratic, but then we're hardly pro-eastern or muslim.

Mark Temple, Woking, UK

Someone asked “How come there are so many American comments, more than the UK ones?”
The Article was linked by Drudge and it’s a slow news day over here. Most people just wanted to show support. They don’t realize how repulsive that is to a BBC tainted UK audience. “Yanks” posting here should watch BBC news for a couple of weeks and find out who their friends are not. Fact is the UK is no match for Iran unless it uses the nuclear threat and even that won’t be an advantage for very long. Russia and China are in Iran’s camp and the EU is gutless. Not a single nation other than the US would be willing to risk the lives of their finest to support the UK in a time of need. That support won’t be necessary though. I’m sure those watching the BBC over the next couple of weeks will be surprised to learn the US not Iran is somehow responsible for this incident. Grovel at Iran’s feet, blame the US and get your boys and girls back.

Stuart, Chicago,

Yes, whenever the Iranians do something, like defending their rights and territorial integrity, they're called "uncivilized", but when the U.S. kills 650,000 Iraqis on top of God knows how many millions of people they have killed before that, they're the civilized, fighting for "democracy" and "freedom"!
-----------------
Thats a biased and ridiculous comment to make. Especially coming from a nation who does not commit anything or far lesser numbers of resources to the UN as the UK/US does, Quite frankly you dont have any voice in this matter. How many deaths have been caused by the americans in Iraq compared to their own radical suicide bombers? Does the News say, US Marines kill 101 Iraqi civillians? No.

Until I 'see' the UK Sailors 'Say' they were in the waters or the Iranians have video footage, they have nothing to stand on. The issue in 94 showed the Iranians Lied.

Christopher Nicol, Swindon, Wiltshire, U.K

Strange timing for this action by Iran. They seem to be on the cusp of having Iraq handed over to them on a silver platter. Why give a fading coalition the excuse it needs to rekindle it's resolve? Incredibly dumb, or something else?!?

Certainly diplomacy must be given time and opportunity to succeed. All out war in the mideast is unthinkable. High technology missiles (supersonic sea skimming) among other threats pose a realistic threat to our forces which are hemmed in a shallow pond. A nuclear response would be inevitable, and ensuing escalation by other parties just as inevitable. So, in short, unthinkable. However, abandoning uniformed soldiers to the enemy is even more unthinkable. Pride should take a backseat to the safe release of these soldiers/sailors, and if an "I'm sorry" is required then so what! However, should harm or prolonged imprisonment befall these surrendered soldiers then the unthinkable must be pursued.

I pray a speedy release is the outcome.

Tomas, Houston, Texas/U.S

to the minority group of gung-ho americans who are baiting and criticising us for not going in guns blazing, perhaps you have forgotten what happened when you tried to fly in when they seized your embassy back in the day?
Many dead soldiers, several lost aircraft, and a situation made much worse by that bungled show of machismo.
(try "operation eagle claw" on wikipedia)
let the diplomats do their job and perhaps we can get our lads back in one piece instead of in body bags, keep the option of violence as a last resort.

Chris (expat), Brussels, Belgium

Mr Lowbridge should not be so cynical, in Europe we do not shoot our allies and then refuse names and evidence when the case of a murdered soldier comes to court.
Yes we Brits are Europeans and why we are following the most inept and ridiculous president in years into this ludicrous war is beyond me, I am usually proud to stand with the US however you cannot deny that this war is one huge mistake. Blair is a fool to be led around by President Bush.
BLH, you should remember who's looking after the wildest part of Afghanistan, and who turfed a bunch of speculative Argies of a rock in the Atlantic not so long ago.
The SAS will be making their plans now, they dont mess around .

Mike Lancaster, Bridgend, Wales

By what right does the West have to possess nuclear arms? By the right of power. Might makes right. Ever heard of this truism? Simple survival of the fittest, gentle reader, is what gives them the right. Many confuse the concepts of moral right with ability, but power is what gives them the "right." Iran is, understandably, attempting to become more powerful...good for them. The thing that many seem to overlook is that all of this is just one giant chess game to keep or gain power. It is as nature intends. If the powerful nations of the West wish to dominate the world through whatever means, then they may freely do so. They have earned the "right" because they have exploited the gifts they were given in this game; Great Britain formed the greatest empire of all time. Global in its effect, and all from a tiny island! The Western nations are more bountifully blessed than any other. Why would that be so? Are they better chess players? Well...look out, Iran. Or should we say, look up...?

lilgerman, stuttgart,

Why try them if they confessed. Simply sentence them.

Sounds like another 444 day President Jimmy (PeaNut)Carter hostage situation. 20 minutes after Reagan was sworn in the Americans being held hostage in Iran, for 444 days, were released. Thereafter, Jimmy Carter went to work for BCCI; yes BCCI.

Democracy and the free world needs a no-mercy security policy.

Michael, Florida, USA

The outcome looks bleak. If even one British soldier so much as chips a fingernail while in Iranian custody G.B. & America should strike Iran without mercy. This was a kidnapping- the Revolutionary Guards held in Iraq were promoting the insurgency. It is critical the British set a strong precedent for any future incidents. The precedent should be that diplomacy is given given 48 hours to work, afterwhich the Iranians are given a short deadline to release the soldiers. If they fail to comply, then it's time unleash the overwhelming airstrikes only the RAF and US Airforce are capable of. To do otherwise will only embolden them now and in the future. These brave soldiers will be paraded by Iran in the worst way and were taken to serve as a human shield and deter against attacks on their nuclear program. I can't see them ever being released for that reason.

Ron Peterson, Woodbury, New York

I guess that all of you would be fine with Iranian Revolutionary Guards entering your home and taking your children. That wouldn't be a good reason for an "unjust" war. Or should be let them develop nukes so they could fry Iraq, Jordan, Saudi, and Isreal. Then, next would be USA, Britian, Australia etc. You seem to live in some dream world where you believe all nations act with commen sense and diplomacy. The Iranian president is a self proclaimed "radical" who has opined on numerous occasions that Isreal, the US and the rest of the western world should be "burned from Persian lands and burned in their homes." and, just as Al Quaeda as proclaimed, he believes in treating armed soldiers and civilian men, women and children the same, to slaughter them all. Yes, yes lets "make money" by going to war. Just as all arguments to some private greedy motive for war, no one presents a scenario where anyone "makes money". Rubbish, let's allow Iran to rape us so you can feel "just".

Rick, Winston-Salem, NC, USA

Iran is acting like a dangerously unstable teenager with violent tendencies and a sense of invulnerability. God help us if the thugs running Iran get nuclear weapons. If they're this belligerent with a modest conventional army & navy can you imagine what they'll be doing to destabilize the neighborhood once they can intimidate people with nuclear weapons?

There's no excuse for this action. The only explanation is that it's a convenient way to ratchet up the tension on the outside world, make a play to regain the Iranians taken into custody after being captured as insurgents in Iraq, and distract the Iranian people from their legitimate grievances with the Iranian government.

I very much doubt the British Navy personnel were in Iranian waters. Even if they were, it's illegal to try them for espionage. The Geneva Convention makes it clear that uniformed military personnel in clearly marked military vehicles can't be legally tried as spies. This is an outrage.

Jill, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

It would seem Iran is testing NATO and the EU even more so than the UK. It is the responsibility of the NATO nations and the EU states to respond when a member is attacked. What will they do? It is a measure of the members and the organizations. Those who ring their hands and shutter certainly do not belong in the organizations. NATO and the EU should come together and then respond to the Iranian attack with as a initial minimum withdrawl of all embassey staffs and deportation of all Iranians directly associated with the Iranian government. Their is a lesson to be learned from the USSR. When their embassy was threatened they sent a message. It was heard loud and clear in Iran. Unfortunately Carter was a weak man who was without principal--typical politician. God I wish there were more like Churchill and Thatcher.

Ray Vaselich, Lorton, Virginia

Problem: Failing despots through out history used such incidents to promote war and unify the people to support his religious or greedy agenda. An act of war has been committed.
Possible solution: Inform the world, “unless our troops or returned without harm within 10 days, we will consider their plight a lost cause and respond to this act of war. There shall be no further dialog”.
Solution: .Make, Iran’s population a prisoner of its borders, i.e. finance, imports/exports (including oil and its products) , and travel.
Final Solution: Use slow random tactical air strikes of the snake heads and its support infrastructure with religious persuasion not being a refuge. Use no ground troops and continue until the good people of Iraq take control of the government.

Norman, Paducah, USA , Kentucky

Both Siginew Breziensky (can never get his name right) and Ron Paul spoke in US congress about their concerns that US would try to provoce or even carry out false flag operations in order to get Iran into war.

The fact is;
1) IRAQ did not have any WMDs and nothing to do with 911 nor buying yellow cake in Africa. This was all fabricated.
2) There is no evidence Iran's intention is to build the bomb.
3) The Shah of Iran commenced the nuclear program already back in the 70s with US help as he knew they would soon run out of oil.
4) Global oil supply has peaked or peak is imminent. This will result in resource wars.
As we can see US is not interested in fighting with North Korea, only with nations that have oil.

Micki, Sydney, Australia

Iran does not have jack to fight with! Do a little research. The west would do the same to iran that happened to iraq. iran would be forced into some terrorist war like iraq. Do not be confused. The only reason iraq is providing any trouble is due to the politicians. Militarily the US and UK are not losing in Iraq. For every UK/US soldier killed we are killing at least 100 Hajis(thank God). iran would be the same way. iran is a pathetic country with an equally pathetic military.

Dirk Gent, FT CAmpbell, USA/KY

Greg, did you care to check who you choose as a your president?, i mean the man that is rated as one of the worse in your country's history. anyway, the leadetship of any country is a reflection of the majority people in the country, are you part of the silienced voice Greg?

hassan, kaduna, nigeria

My thoughts go out to the British sailors and their families. I hope that they will soon be returned safely and feel optimistic that in these circumstances this will be the outcome.

Em Hawthorne, London, UK

In reply to the poster of this comment, "Can these American posters not see how horrifying their posts are? Can they not see why there is such fervent anti-Americanism around the world? "

Did it ever occur to you they might not be Americans? Too many redneck Americans posting to a British Newspaper website for me to believe they are legitimate. .

recherche1978, Atlanta, Georgia

Iran has 1000's of yacont missiles alone! FYI, one yacont missile can blow up an entire U.S. carrier in the Persian Gulf with one shot! In addition, Iran has tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of its own manufactured missiles which it mass produces. Iran also mass produces unmanned drones that can travel up to 700 km without radar detection. In other words, Iran could if it wished trap the entire U.S. fleet in the Persian Gulf, and it could thereby annihilate almost half of the U.S. armed forces who all are occupying territories in the Persian Gulf. It's suicide for the U.S. to try anything with Iran. And if Israel would attack Iran, Iran has declared that it sees any Israeli attack as a U.S. attack, since israel and the U.S. in actuality are one and the same country, USRAEL, and thus Iran will launch a massive attack against U.S. forces. If you were not in the Iran-Iraq war, you do not know what fierce Iranian fighters are! Forget the Vietnamese or anyone else.

Nader, Vasastan, Sweden

Why did UK forces stand idly by while their mates were surrounded and abducted... for the second time? I'm embarrassed for the British Navy.

As for those who fear Iran's military capabillities, I suggest a remedial review of the considerable options available to UK & US forces for dismantling the Iranian military from over the horizon.

Regrettably, appeasement seems once more to be the order of the day, on both sides of the Atlantic. Those who persist on this course will have only themselves to blame when Israel inevitably decides it has no choice but to deal with Tehran's ambitions directly -- or when the West is forced to respond in kind, decisively, to the use of nuclear weapons by madmen who twist religion to justify suicidal dreams of global conquest.

Mike, California,

Shahram , Vasastan, Sweden has a lot of nasty things to say about America. That is to be expected. From what I understand the Swedes can't pass off part of their country (Malmo) to the Jihadi invaders fast enough. So is it any surprise this guy reacts angerly against America. How are America stand up to the forces of Shiite Eschatology.

UK: You either put the Muslims in thier place or they will do it to you.

Vince P, Chicago, IL

When will you people learn? History keeps repeating itself: Empire after empire, and super power after super power came and digged their own grave with their own decadence, arrogance, greed and aggressions! The U.S. is now repeating the same mistake. The evil axis is in reality the U.S., Israel, Britain and those that support their murderous wars for more wealth and more power!

Lilian Wennergren, Stockholm, Sweden

Israel wants the US to eliminate Iran and what Israel wants Israel gets.
If anyone does not believe that the US is run by Israel then they deserve their fate.
It all comes down to who has the more powerful imaginary friend.

Leroy, Las Vegas, USA

Goodbye England! It was nice knowing you. Ever since you let the bed wetting liberal take control over the mindset of your country and indoctrinate your children with defeatism through socialist philosophy and utopian ideals, I hardly recognize you. There is but a faint resemblance of the great country you once were. History will reflect upon the current unarmed British society as pacifist appeasers who gleefully, and with great pride, provided the enemy with the very rope used to choke the life out from within. Not only did you provide the rope, but you helped fast tighten the noose as well. Soon, you will be digging the grave in which you will be buried.

Unleash the rage of your Soccer Hooligan! It is your last resort and the only force which can save you.

Prescott, Birmingham, Alabama, USA

"If Starling in Lancaster had been around in the 1930s"

Starling from Lancaster is a "she" from Holland, with a grandmother who hid 4 Jewish kids during the Occupation, who had one grandfather in a concentration camp, and another grandmother who had to scour the countryside to find food for her starving kid. I can also lecture you on the NSDAP, if you like.

On a more on topic note, I've only seen articles that mentioned proof that the Brits were in Iranian waters, I've not seen any proof that they weren't.

That aside, the Iranian president is obviously nuts, but does that mean we should kill thousands of Iranians?

Starling, Lancaster,

Solving this without turning to violence requires backbone.

War is the idiot's way out.

Diplomacy takes courage, determination, and brains. It shows Iran Britain is bigger than they are.

Starling, Lancaster,

Hey Mark thats a bit harsh huh?

Some of what you say is true but I really wouldn't say all. This situation will be resolved to the U.K's satisfaction. Our government are not fools and if rational diplomacy (which has always been a stalwart of British nature) fails, then we'll "kick their asses" (which would obviously please many here!) One way or the other, rest assured we are in control.

Note: Americans, please do not say you won WWII, it is insulting to millions of British, French, Russian, Chinese, Australaisian, and countless other peoples who struggled and suffered on a much more intimate level that you did.

Nonplussed , London,

Hey! shela nothe, London, UK. Are you serious? If Isreal speaks the language of aggression it's because they are constantly under the theat of terroism. 1948, 1956 Suez war, 1967 six day war, 1972 Olympic games, 1973 yom kippur war. Come on get real. And we did not start this anyway. It predates 9/11/2001. Read up a little on all the attacks the USA was under--> The marine barrack bombing, 1993 World trade center, USS cole etc...you cant talk to them, unless you are ready to sacrifice Isreal. and you obviously are.. another appeaser...

Matt, Salt Lake City, USA

In appreciation of all the goodwill shown by our American friends, I quote one of their great leaders ,Roosevelt,....'Speak softly and carry a big stick".

I think the behaviour of the Royal Marines and the Government has been exemplary thus far. We should be polite and civil (and speak softly) in all our dealings with the Iranian regime. Making threats would be bad form. We should simply ask that our service men are returned asap. If this does not happen within a fortnight the Navy should be mobilised to move all available carriers and destroyers to the Gulf. Not one word of explanation to the World's media or the Iranians should be offered.We should simply allow them to draw their own conclusions. Once insitu, the force could be used to blockade all the Iranian ports.
The one thing the Iranians cannot abide is humiliation by the West and that is what we should offer, until the sailors are returned. Any military strikes by Iran on the force should be reciprocated.

Simon, Carrick, U.K

Who cares? They knew the coup when they put the uniform on. All wars have casualties - and they just another load of names on a list.
Maybe if the US and UK stopped bullyiong other countries, they may be more friendly??!!

david, portsmouth, uk

It is actually quite amusing to read comments from liberal leftist brits who want to blame America for everything. You people have alot of nerve. Your country would cease to exsist if were not for the United States. Hell you almost lost to the Argentinians. So get off your whining and crying and get your navy some navigational tools so they know where they are going. We'll probably have to go in and rescue them.

T.J., DISCOVERY BAY, Ca.

US aids... How many US soldiers are now in Afghanistan and missions, there is a lot of European but not too much US. After the bombing of Serbia who rebuilt the bridges and country, Europe not US. At the moment that US would stop making war the country would get into recession, because US has a too big weapon industry. And you have to either sell or us(or both) the weapons to keep going...
And I totallya agree with Chris that this really a good cause to attack Iran and yes Iran doesn't have a chance against the US forces, Iraq didn't have one either, but did US win the war, no. Attacking Iran would mean a big boost in terrorism, great future for the world. And why can't Iran have nuclear weapon. India and Pakistan has them too. You need a carrier for the nucler heads, which can be shot down, why North-Korea isn't a big threat either. And sorry if I have some spelling mistakes, but I dont' use my English too often. Cheers

Roland, Budapest, Hungary

I have to say Britain has become spineless. Though it is not just the UK, it is most of the western world. Iran is building the infrastructure needed to create nuclear weapons, they are the world's largest supporter of Islamic terrorism against the west, and they are behind the deaths of countless soldiers and civilians in Iraq.

What is the world’s response, stupid talk about meaningless sanctions against a few entities in country of millions of people. Of course they think the west is joke. They get to commit acts of war and we ignore them or play their game of negation that everyone knows is act. God save us when they actually get nukes and use them with in accordance with their radical beliefs. They will of course but you can’t get anyone to admit this obvious truth.

Jonathan Quinn, Springfield , Missouri, U.S.A.

It's obvious that the irannian gov. wnats to humiliate the soldiers and provocate even more the west. Let them do so. Each day more and more peioples are able to see thesse radicals for waht they really are.

Sergio, SA,

I’m 55 years old, born and raised in the southeastern US and I have never met as many warmongering stereotyped Americans as I have seen posting on this single UK web site. Someone having a little fun at our expense?

Kip, Greenville, South Carolina

thank you for your comments this goverment has no backbone at all you wouldt beleive whats going on here the lattest thing is the prisoners have theire own cell key as respect my great country is finished thanks to bliar our sailors were in inriqi waters patroling all bliair is bowing down to all and sundry but the true brit dont get a look inimnot surprised at the way he was slow i doubt if hell demand any thing regarding our boys girl hes only intrested in getting us in to bloody europe we didnt have asay on that lets hope our boys girl are homesoon

percific, portsmouth, england

Can these American posters not see how horrifying their posts are? Can they not see why there is such fervent anti-Americanism around the world?

Colonialism is a bad thing by the way – most reasonable Brits are ashamed of that part of our past. I'd urge the USA to not make the same mistake of thinking unilateral action can spread our 'univeral ideals'.

Don’t assume violence is the only answer to every problem on Earth. It would seem you associate greatness with provoking unnecessary wars and killing innocent people.

And, perhaps you might be taken a little more seriously if you could just learn how to spell (even American spelling) and create proper sentences.

Flabbergasted, Hampshire, Britain

Hi,

Brits claim they were captured in Iraki's water and Iranians claim it was in their territorial water...how could we know?
The Brits could have called for help long before being in sight of the ennemy vessels.
I also have a feeling that such ships are under regular sattelite survey by masny nations, the silence of the witnesses is disturbing.

White Peregrine, Geneva, Switzerland

I agree with Jon from Olympia, US assessment, America's initial involvement in Iraq was with good intentions. I recall it even had world support early on. But now, the anti-American feelings expressed around the world are so high that many Americans wonder aloud why should we become involved at all. There is always a beginning, middle and an end, and in any conflict you may not know the end before the beginning - that is standard that America is held to, it seems. That's a heavy burden to place on anyone people. So next time the world "comes a calling" a less engaging American administration and people might not answer the call. Be careful what you wish for. If it weren't for American involvement, a lot of you would be speaking German, be beholden to dictatorial rulers, or simply dead.

Andy, Woodinville, WA

are you kidding me. The Brits and the US have been provoking Iran for years. Lets not forget about us sending secret agents in their country to disrupt it as well. Seems to me that IRAN is the adult and the Brits and the US are children playing war games. Leave them alone and get all our military out of every country in the world tomorrow. Only then will the world stop hating us.

Mark Gil, rochester, ny, usa

I wish those held in Iran were US force it would look interesting

ke, london, england

for the americans calling for war:

if you attack iran it will be your *last* war.
modern technology has changed war a lot, the iranians can destroy an aircraft carrier with 80 planes and 5000 personel with a single 10 year old 3million dollar russian missile - and they have over a 100 of them

and for the brits - remember what an exocet missile did during the falklands war? well they have over 350 of those too.


iran is not iraq, it's a modern first-world country with weapons systems to match.
it's also about 3 times the size of the u.k.

james town, u.k.,

Wow. "Insurgents?" How are the British sailors insurgents. I didn't realize they were Iranian citizens who wished to revolt. What a bunch of idiots. It's like they gave a bunch of mean, 12 year old, non-unintelligent bullies a country to run. "Oh yeah?! Well we'll capture your military personnel and call them insurgents! Yeah that's it, insurgents. Clever right?!?" Wow.

And Briton won't do anything back as pretty much all of Europe has lost any hint of a backbone as it's been castrated by liberals in search of an unobtainable/unsustainable Utopian state.

Nathan O, New Orleans, USA

This mess is Americas fault. The war in Iraq is Americas war and many many people in the U.K. wish we had never joined them in there fight. How long was britain left to battle on its own again during WW2 before America helped??
If any thing does happen between Iran and the States I and many other people in the U.K. would prefer it if we cut all of our ties with America whos ambition it seems is to invade every country on the planet. And the sooner you get Bush out of office the better. I can assure the rest of the world that many people in the U.K. do not stand shoulder to shoulder with this menacing country. Soon America you will be on your own!

Mark, Birmingham , U.K

Why are the Americans so interested in this business? It really is none of their concern.

Furthermore, I for one am quite digusted at people such as Maksim from Brooklyin libelling the captured sailors whilst in the possession of absolutely no knowledge as to the circumstances surrouding their seizure.

Hopefully our Government will remain acting in a rational way notwithstanding the war-fever that seems to have infected a significant number of people.

Daniel, Belfast,

What's wrong with our Navy, have they forgotton how to fight ?

There's no doubt about it, it's a complete loss of face. Who now is going to be scared of a few blokes in a rubber dingy, carrying
rifles. If it wasn't so serious I'd laugh.

UK armed forces -"float like a Butterfly, sting like rice-pudding".

Embarrassed, Lincoln, England, UK.

Time to send in 22 SAS. "Who Dares Wins."

Kelly Altenhofen, Lewistown, MT/USA

It's good to see our American friends showing considerably more concern for the welfare of British troops than they ever seem to do on the battlefield. Trigger-happy nutters though they may be, they are mostly right in this case. The Iranians should be given a simple ultimatum - hand back our troops or consider yourselves at war.

Meanwhile, our friends over the pond might like to comfort themselves with the thought that we are a long way from Sharia law in the UK. Fortunately, we are equally as far from gung-ho flag-waving bellicose ignorance. We like to ask questions first and shoot later.

Jem, London, UK

Just what are these British pirates doing in foreign waters thousands of miles from home? By what right do they stop Iranian ships? Those who think "might makes right" had better remember HMS Amathist on the Yangtze River in 1948. Every British Ship in the Gulf will be destroyed the moment Bush attacks Iran.

R. Schulz, Jericho , Nassau,N>Y>

In the future, as well as now, when we fight a war we must be able to fight. We must cease worrying how the press will intrepret what our military does. Few of those who report the news have ever been in the military. We have the ability to fight a war and win, but any concern over what wil be reported, or how we will be viewed internationally, only hinders our success. Fight and win ASAP, if we are to fight.

Brenda, Mobile, Al,

well to be honest I think brits did get in iranian territorial waters knowing their past history sticking their nose in others business. Brits are no angel, ok let's get that straight. This is how they used to do it to blame first and then conquer. I am shocked how americans are so uneducated to believe anything that media wants them to believe. whatever happened to those americans who used to do research before coming to any conclusion. It's time for americans to hit back to school and get educated. We have enough problem in U.S. PERIOD

tony, dallas, texas

Hey Vlad - Yes, whenever the Iranians do something, like defending their rights and territorial integrity, they're called "uncivilized", but when the U.S. kills 650,000 Iraqis on top of God knows how many millions of people they have killed before that, they're the civilized, fighting for "democracy" and "freedom"!

Shahram , Vasastan, Sweden

Peter from Windsor ( U.S.) I realize that Californians have to be cut some slack--all that sun and heat--but please do me and millions of your countrymen a favor and get a high-school equivalency diploma before you start posting on threads outside of the local shopping paper. More than enough Europeans think we're intellectually challenged here in the States without your doing your utmost to prove it.

William, New York,

I would wonder as well? Someone needs to cool this hyena's heels, why not the U.K.? You could sink the Iranian navy in 5 minutes. Nelson must be rolling in his grave.

Scott Crest, New York, NY

Why can't we all just get along?
Give Iran a small piece of the UK near London to show good will and expose them to the Sharia law in the UK. The compassionate Hajis there will show their Persian brothers how to get along with the West.
All we need is love.

Bubba Joe Davis, Birdslip, Mississippi

The responders all seem to agree that the Brits hadn't crossed the hard-won centerline. But the Brits were interdicting an Iranian? vessel at anchor in Iraqi waters? That doesn't sound too likely.

The Iranians know well where that border is...they fought a dirty, bloody war for it. And the location of the border is a matter between Iraq and Iran. Britain courts this type of response when it plays this game.

Before anymore back-porch warriors advocate war on Iran, consider the unreliable facts which brought you to your current conflicts.

Peace Now, Edmonton,

Bully Bully! For the Brits. The USA appreciates their blindless devotion! Oh! Did someone in the "free media" neglect to mention that the Merchant ship boarded was an Iranian merchant vessel? That sort of changes things 180 degrees, doesn't it? I wonder how the US would feel if a US merchant vessel in the gulf was boarded by Iranians searching for contraband or attempting to smuggle in insurgents against their regime! Do you think the US would show them leniency? Hypocracy is a one-way street with Bush's adminstration.

warmapril, LA, California

Time to go in and get the British officers and teach the Iranians they are playing in a field they should not have entered. It's time. Their ignorance has walked them right into a worldwide validation of their stupidity, allowing what is about to happen. Finally.

Adrian Kessler, Boston, MA

From the southwestern United States perspective - At least the Iranians know how to enforce their border. Armed persons without immigration visas were "found" and arrested. In the USA, our National Guard actually receives medals of commendation for retreating and giving up US territory under similar circumstances.

It is too late for Britain despite anyone's opinion. You all are so far down the toilet you can't help yourselves. We Yanks are hot on your tails, though.

Pat Kinghorn, Houston, Texas, USA

We should not forget that the media these days are told only what we are meant to think?. It is easy for us to sit back as armchair politicians/soldiers, and criticise. Who is to say we are not drawing are plans against them as we speak. If the USA and UK are allies i sugest we do not give the Iranians, or anyone else come to that, what they would most like' DISAGREEMENTS. As Napolian said '' Lets not have any disagreements, disagreements only lead to disaster''
God bless the British Navy.
Splice the mainbrace

Dan, Coventry, England

Why, oh why are my fellow Americans calling for an invasion of Iran? Think this through. The Iranian leadership may be crazy, disturbed, etc, but they're not stupid. They're not going to kill the sailors. The only thing I believe that would put their lives in danger is an invasion or use of force against Iran. To the Brits, I pray that you get your boys (and girl) back soon. Work diplomatically and Iran will alienate itself from most of the world. Use force and we simply give Iran what it wants - attention and sympathy. Let's not go down that road unless all other options are exhausted.

Reagan, Dallas, TX

Knowing what the Iranian leadership is like, why were a handful of British sailors allowed to be that close to hostile waters without the accompaniment of strong backup and support? Why was it made so easy for the Iranians? Does anybody expect a country like Iran to play by the 'rules' of a civilized society? Look who they chose for their leader.

Greg Kricheff, San Francisco, California, USA

Here we go again... hmmm lets see under what pretext can we invade another nation... hmm no evidence for them being any danger to us. so lets send some of our boys in so that they get captured or possibly killed. .. perhaps the public sentiment will sway in our favour. And we can make a lot of money!
... much like fred in arizona who will support another illegal and unjust war in the middle east?

Matt, melbourne, australia

Us policy has created perpetuated the climate for terrorists and consequentially the need to control them. Fred from arizona is clearly of the opinion that girls and boys are in control of the process and that is probably correct in terms of the US. This clearly demonstrate that children shouldn't be allowed near dangerous wepons.

Al Fogo, Dublin, Ireland

Before people glibly advocate military action against Iran they should consult a map whilst baring in mind that Iran possesses large numbers of extremely lethal anti-ship missiles, including Russian Sunburns, which could turn the Persian gulf into a no go zone for shipping.The consequences for the world economy would be very serious.
People that suggest using nuclear weapons, apart from being obviously insane, are just confirming Iran's urgent need to develop their own weapon.

Tim, Bristol, UK

kambiz, Edinburgh

"We will defend our country and if you think this is the turn of the last century where you can waltz in and do like you please think again... "

What part of Iran is Edingburgh in?

Homer, London,

"We are in World War IV"

Oh dear, did I sleep through WWIII?

Starling, Lancaster,

Agree, with you Maksim. Why did the officers in those boats move one inchtoward Iranian waters, why weren't they calling for airpower and the frigate nearby to blow these Iranian boats out the water????

Ernest Miller, Cleveland/Ohio, USA

Not everyone is a war monger. I doubt british are eager to run to battle stations considering the failure of the past decade+ of wars. The most peaceful way to resolve this would be to release the 5 prisonors US has of theirs in return for the 15 british- thats a fair trade regardless of the current situation.

Jon, Rockland, New York

All you Iran bashers please answer one question. In the last few decades, how many countries has the U.S. invaded and how many people have been killed as a result of those aggressions versus how many countires Iran has invaded.
Well, let me help you with the answer. Iran has invaded no country and the U.S.? OK you be the judge?

Reza, Tehran, Iran

Ask the US for their New Jersey battleship and park it where these Brits were siezed. Let's see what happens then.

Nathan S., San Antonio, USA

Simply put, this is an outrage.

Seamus, Orange County, CA, USA

One thing is certain: Iran will be invaded before Bush ends its mandate. It would be stupid for them NOT to have the bomb as soon as possible. Any reasonable person who wants to defend its country would do the same.

Do you imagine, UK and US people, your countries surrounded by enemy armies (I don't know how many aircraft carriers), and still calling you 'the agressor'?

America and UK, defend your own countries, don't invade other countries illegally to rob the oil, and you will be backed and appreciated by the rest of the world.

Alberto, Mexico,

Fifteen of your countrymen are being held hostage and are about to be tried for espionage in Iran, and you want to have a "quiet" and "lovely" discussion about it?? mmmm'kay.....................

Diane, Massachusetts, USA

Last Summer (July 06) I remember some Israeli soldiers that were taken hostage. Does anyone remember what happened for two months after their abduction ?
Iran is heading down a VERY slippery slope.

Cheryl, Glendale,

Alas it seems the Brits have lost their backbone. Their sailors have been kidnapped and they sit on their duffs. In the Good Old Days, Tehran would be in ruins by now. But not anymore. They are now the playthings of Muslim terrorists.

Fred, Rochester, NY, USA

It appears that Iran is testing the West since they know our political situation (especially the UK and US). If Iran successfully executes these hostages, then they will most literally be "getting away with murder". We must NOT cowtow to their demands and meekly appease them. Iran is the very definition of a rogue state, anyone who fails to see this is a blind man.

To the one who said "I wish we could trust our government"... you actually trust the IRANIAN president (Holocaust denier, Islamist mystic, former terrorist ties) more than the UK government? You are truly deluded indeed.

William , Baghdad, IQ

The question is, what was on the boat that the Iranians were trying to hide? We all know they were sending in weapons and personnel to stir up trouble in Iraq.

rkelly, Leesdale, maryland

I'm reading all these comments about how the US should get out of Iraq cause we have no right to be there. Fine but take it a step further and let's get all our men and women home. The rest of the world needs to grow up and stop having us save them militarily and financially. who sends out the most aid to the world? who funds more international projects? I'm not saying lets not have anything to do with any country. I'm saying let's fortify our borders, look after our own and unite again as a country.

Jon, Olympia, USA WA

How convenient to place a ship searching detail in disputed waters!
And how convenient a case it would make for going to war!
No 'sexed-up' intelligence is needed;we can all see the humanitarian issue here. First we can liberate the captured soldiers and then we can liberate all of that oil and gas under the Iranian soil.
Seems to me that the politicians and big business are getting better at this game as time goes on.

Chris, Osaka, Japan

All the talk about WW3 is overblown. If the Iranians really think they have the military might to stand up to the UK and the US they are delusioinal. Syria would not be stupid enough to get involved lest they want their military decimated also. The Iranian air force and navy are circa the Vietnam era as far as thier technology goes. If we decide to hit them, they will never see it coming. Thier primative air defenses will be destroyed before they get a fighter jet in the air and the air force will be destroyed on the ground. 1 Trident submarine can wreak havoc on their Navy. It's a joke to think that they will last very long. They like to project power, but they are and always have been all bluster. I hope we do it. Enough is enough.

Matt, Salt Lake City, USA

If Tony Blair doesn't hold Iran to task over piracy and kidnapping of his people doing work for the UN, you can change the name of Great Britain to anything other than Great. He needs to adopt the same intent as Maggie Thatcher did with the Falklands. Otherwise the Arab world will think it is a joke and that they are weak minded.

David, Melbourne, Australia

The point now is not Iran bashing but rather to constructively think of ways to free the sailors without giving in to threats. Secondly, we should all reflect as to why the Iranians feel as if they have no choice but to behave in such a rogue like manner.

Perhaps, the right way forward in a situation like this is to not make matter worse by adding oil to the fire I.E, by making thoughtless comments about a country (Iran) which most of us don't have a real knowledge on. It would only confirm to the fundamentalists out there that they were right on the western world all along and perhaps even makes them feel justified to go on with their acts of terrorism.

My sympathies to the sailors, their families and friends. Its most unfortunate and I hope and pray for their safe release. But, continued Iran bashing is not the way to go.

Grace, Singapore, Singapore

Is it just me or has Britain become spineless lately. The Iranians certainly think so! If churchill was still alive he'd have the entire fleet sitting outside these upstarts' ports letting them know whats what. This is the 2nd time this has happened, and it's ridiculous.
Iran uses dipolmacy as a stall tactic, and they are going to use this to embarrase and humilate those Royal Marines.
My offer would be that our subs and destroyers will take out one military base and airfield at a time untill our sailors and marines are safely returned. The Navy has cruise missiles, the RAF have their shiney new Typhoons, and the Army have their new longbow apachees. Why not put them to use rather than gawking at them!
We dont have to invade, rather, dismantle from afar. The Iranians are training terrorists in iraq to kill British troops, so we have plenty of justification.
No, Im not a war monger but I think its time to put the "Great" back in Great Britan and stand up for ourselves!

john, Newcastle, England

There's also an economic side to this. Iran can't pay Russia for the fuel for its nuclear reactor. How to raise funds? Hike up the oil price by ratcheting up the tension in the Gulf. Military exercises didn't really work, so grab some allied sailors and make a show of it. And laugh all the way to the bank.

I wonder if "give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and give to God what is God's" made it into the Koran? If so, the Iranian government is again blaspheming itself. No Mahdi there.

The solution is to show we can degrade all the Iranian ports under the UN sanctions. I bet this could be done non-kinetically. We'll see.

Chris, Rye, New York, USA

Franky, I'm fed up of all this conpiracy theory nonsense. OUR sailors were doing their job, in Iraqi waters under a U.N mandate and here we are sideing with a country that is aspiring to develop nuclear weapons and has been referred to the security council. Now having illegally captured and detained them , they are claiming they were spying on Iran! Come on people, grow up.

Rowena Snowdon, London,

The responders all seem to agree that the Brits hadn't crossed the hard-won centerline.

The Iranians know well where that border is...they fought a dirty, bloody war for it. And the location of the border is a matter between Iraq and Iran. Britain courts this type of response when it plays this game.

Before anymore back-porch warriors advocate war on Iran, consider the unreliable facts which brought you to your current conflicts.

Peace Now, Edmonton,

The US/UK have violated the territorial waters &sovereignty of dozens of countries. They have kidnapped many people this way. Theyve killed& maimed millions in their large scale terrorism& many illegal wars. Theyve illegally invaded Iraq, which is dangerous to its neighbour Iran., & even the corporate press reported that the US is arming& training terrorist groups inside Iran. The US/UK support dozens of dictators and overthrew democratically elected Mossadegh, installing the Shah What if an Iranian military ship was navegating aroung the US/UK? What if Iran invaded a country next to the US or UK? What if Iran was supporting terrorist groups inside the US? What if Iran demanded that the US gave up its nukes given that it's the only state that has used them against civilians and its record of criminal actions?
The hypocrisy is amazing.The US imposes sanctions on others after committing such lawless criminal actions & the media whitewashes US/UK crimes and vilifies their official enemy

Jonathan Shockley, San Francisco, USA

"The AMERICAN men and women who won WWII. "

A lot of US citizens need to look a tad more closely at who did what, and why, during WWII.

Starling, Lancaster,

Americans talk a language of aggression, like Israel. Thats why they are winning in Iraq......errrrr.....and there's peace in the Middle East......ummm......Yes, Iran can be captured by America and a pro-American government installed there........ooopsss.....and the whole world would be peaceful. Hey Americans, you have nothing worthy to teach and lecture.

shela nothe, London, UK

As a Brit, I'm surprised to see so many insolent remarks about our perceived lack of determination from some of our American so called 'friends'. That aside, there is no doubt that this outrageous incident will be best dealt with in the first place by some firm, but quiet diplomacy. That is happening now, but if it fails, and I would consider it a failure if it took more than ten days to be resolved, I for one would not hesitate to bombard the Iranian nuclear installations with every missile and bomb that we have. I would also seek to have Iran placed under a regime of full sanctions - a total blockade. In my view that is the only way to deal with an aggressive and unreasonable power. I bear no grudge against the Iranian people, but if their leaders do not pull back from this situation, caused in all probability by enthusiastic local forces, it will have persisted in an act of war against us. I see no alternative but to respond with a massive retaliation.

Tony Volpe, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Dear tk, I'm sorry your father died, but Britain was not liberated by America, since it was never occupied.

And if anyone ever uses the "we liberated you" line as an excuse for the States to be able to do anyting and everything again, I shall kick them in the shins.

I'm Dutch by the way. Canada liberated us. Sorry.

Starling, Lancaster,

Nearly all great civilized societies still found today owe an incalculable debt to Great Britain -- directly or indirectly, a sister, mother, or grandmother to us all. In face of the present challenge, the first order of business for all of us is, of course, to defer to the judgment of the British government. The second order of business, in turn, is to help in any manner that the British government requests -- whether it be simply to stay out of the way, or to assist more actively. I personally am doubtful that anything short of steady-eyed coercion will work with these Iranian lunatics, who do not constitute a "state" at all. But as I say, the judgment here is to be made by the UK. (And should the UK decide to proceed with force, please know that I for one, an Anglo-American, am certainly prepared to put my life at risk on your behalves -- which after all amount to my and all of our behalves behalves.)

Maynard, New York, NY USA

Britain and Iran are not in a declared war so the only solution is for Iran to throw a dinner with a slide show on the history of Persia for their guests and have them fly home by a third party airline. I think that would make their point even better as well as put them in a good light and magically kick-start an opening to a great international conversation. I think its time that some people of true good will make an appearance on the world stage and introduce the idea of fun again. If the Iranian leadership is as smart as they say are, then its about time they show some world class "smarts" and if they have it a life embracing positive hand if all they really want is to communicate.

Brian, Los Angeles, California

Have you forgotten the U.S.S. Vincennes incident when it shot down an Iranian passenger plane in the Persian Gulf, killing 290 innocent people? Have you forgotten that the U.S. government tried to cover up the truth that the American war ship had violated Iranian waters when it shot down the Iranian passenger plane? When the truth came out.... Nothing happened! The person who wrote here that Iraqi fishermen had seen that the Brits were in Iraqi waters, you totally "misunderstood" it! The Iraqi general was quoted on CNN today as saying that numerous Iraqi fishermen had witnessed the incident and had said that the British boats had exited Iraqi waters and entered foreign territorial waters. Nobody violates Iranian waters with Iran knowing about it and not doing anything about it! Those who think otherwise do not know what Iran and Iranians are about. It is not without reason that Iran has emerged as an empire numerous times throughout its 5000 years of history.

Cyrus, Stockholm, Sweden

Someone asked “How come there are so many American comments, more than the UK ones?”
The Article was linked by Drudge and it’s a slow news day over here. Most people just wanted to show support. They don’t realize how repulsive that is to a BBC tainted UK audience. “Yanks” posting here should watch BBC news for a couple of weeks and find out who their friends are not. Fact is the UK is no match for Iran unless it uses the nuclear threat and that won’t be an advantage for very long. Russia and China are in Iran’s camp and the EU is gutless. Not a single nation other than the US would be willing to risk the lives of their finest to support the UK in a time of need. That support won’t be necessary though. I’m sure those watching the BBC over the next couple of weeks will be surprised to learn the US not Iran is somehow responsible for this incident. Grovel at Iran’s feet, blame the US and get your boys and girls back.

Stuart, Chicago, USA

Trouble has been in the cards since 1979 hostage taking was left unpunished. Bomb every power generation facility in Iran and prevent any subsequent fixes. Let them try to enrich uranium with no electricity. These people are the source of alot of trouble and we really have no choice here. Its pay the bill now or pay the bill later ( at a higher cost as interest always acrues )

Fred, phoenix Arizona , USA

America invaded Iraq what a disaster for Americans, serviceman, and Iraqis. Israel, with arm twisting from America, invaded Lebanon what a disaster for Israel and Lebanon. Let us not forget the Israeli occupation of all of Palestine and the destruction a nation, a community, and a way of life. The continued denial of human, economic, and political rights supported by every US administration. When will Americans understand that war is not the solution but the problem? When will they respect that the oil resources of the Middle East are for the peoples of the middle east? When will they listen to the countries of the middle east who have asked for a nuclear free middle east? When will they accept the Arab peace proposal for an end to Israeli occupation in exchange for peace with Israel? When will US accept peace overtures from Syria and Iran? When will Americans realize there is another way?
--An American in Dubai----

Bob, Dubai, UAE

The man in charge of hoodwinking the Western powers about Iran's now 18-year-old secret nuclear program believes the apocalypse will happen in his own lifetime. He'll be 50 in October.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's Shi'ite creed has convinced him lesser mortals can not only influence but hasten the awaited return of the 12th Imam, known as the Mahdi. Iran's dominant "Twelver" sect holds this will be Muhammad ibn Hasan, the righteous descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. He is said to have gone into "occlusion" in the 9th century, at age 5. His return will be preceded by cosmic chaos, war, bloodshed and pestilence. After this cataclysmic confrontation between the forces of good and evil, the Mahdi will lead the world to an era of universal peace.
"The ultimate promise of all Divine religions," says Ahmadinejad, "will be fulfilled with the emergence of a perfect human being [the 12th Imam], who is heir to all prophets. He will lead the world to justice and absolute peace.

Steve, Edmond, OK/USA

Politic is politic Like business is business. dont blame anyone in Iran. This matter will be settled behined the curtains. I point out that Iran is commited to be a 3rd world country & everything in borders, courts, news, etc will follow the same standard. so dont expect Iranian to think & act like western. Wrong or right they'll act for their best interst. lets see the next move by the 1st world & enjoy the game.

mohamad, dubai, uae

What's the Monarchy doing about this? Nothing?. Time to abolish do nothing Royals, or at least stop naming your proud ships, HMS this or that.

Adan, kuwait city, kuwait

What has all the above babble got to do with the serious offense of British service men being kidnapped in so called peace time. If you want to talk about American politics or imperialism why not go to another topic. This is a British problem. By the way the Iranians have one day left to hand our people back,

John Simpson, Luton , UK

Iran should not underestimate Great Britain. If provoced, Tony Blair might go as far as calling them bad people (well, maybe he will not go to this extreme...)

afraid, Toronto, Canada

During the Cold War both East and West took hostages, they were called SPIES. After a lot of belly thumping they did an exchange because there was always a ready supply on both sides. This saved face for all and never involved the use of force.

So the message is, lift some high ranking Iranians and charge them with spying. It worked with the Russians so it should work with a bunch of half wits.

If non of this works then we should ask our governments why we bother having WMD if we wont use them.

Roger, Glasgow, Scotland

I'm impressed by SOME comments of "The brits won't put up with this"..... but sadly they will. This british government realises it cannot afford to threaten any actions of armed conflict as it is totally out of money and resources.

James Brown, Portsmouth , UK

When are the leftist pacifist in the U.S. and Great Britain, along with the fish wraping news dailys going to wake up and understand that if we don't stand up and DESTROY heir Hitler, Im' sorry I was remembering back 71 years, the Muslim fanatics will be using our children as homicide bombers and declaring jiahd on whoever is left to to honor God and Country in a free society, but who will that be because all the Judeo, Christians and God honoring Muslims will have fallen.
Believe in the United Nations, and let France lead and all this horror will happen today not tommorow!

Al Goldstein, St. Augustine, FLorida

Where are those who, a few days ago, were agahst at the thought that the Iranians could do not wrong, nor anything provocative? The naietivity and ignorance shown by those individuals can only remind one of the Britain of the mid-30s which had ignored Sir Winston Churchill's warnings about the Nazi party's rearmament of Germany. Well, we now have a new totalitarian thug who is simply 60 years into the future and one continent removed. Good luck to the 15. May they return safe and soon.

Mario, Miami, FL US

Soldiers in uniform are not considered spies so what are the Iranians talking about? This is an a