I suspect most of Iran's recent bluster is really all about stoking the flames of national patriotism and muffling the voices of moderation and reform in that country. Keep in mind that Iran is now flanked on both the west and east by countries hosting sizeable American military forces. What better way to calm a nervous population than to proclaim confidence about one's military prowess? What better way to protect one's political power than to appear defiant before one's "enemy?"

Iran is a long ways off from producing a nuclear weapon. Given that, we have a considerable opportunity to attempt a diplomatic solution. And, given that we have currently taxed much of our military capacity and patience for war in Iraq, we'd best use this time wisely to regain our strength, rebuild our international credibility and pursue any and all diplomatic options.