Sanctions on Iran

The UN Security Council has unanimously agreed to the imposition of economic sanctions against Iran for that country’s refusal to suspend uranium enrichment. Iran calls the resolution “illegal” and “invalid” and has vowed to keep enriching uranium.

I have not seen the text yet, but the only sort of resolution that China and Russia would accept would be very watered-down, and reports about changes in the draft before this was done indicates that some watering-down did indeed take place.

The Iranians, then, will protest angrily, but continue as before to work on their nuclear program. The chattering classes here and in Europe will be satisifed, and cite the efficacy of multi-lateral diplomacy. The bothersome Americans will be dunned for whatever concessions they agreed to give the Chinese and Russians not to veto the watered-down resolution; and looked at with extreme annoyance when they come back for more. . .as they certainly will. The UN, like any good prostitute, only works when its pimps are paid.

Meanwhile, here’s some pertinent dialogue from Team America: World Police:

Kim Jong Il: Hans Brix? Oh no! Oh, herro. Great to see you again, Hans!

Hans Blix: Mr. Il, I was supposed to be allowed to inspect your palace today, but your guards won't let me enter certain areas.

Kim Jong Il: Hans, Hans, Hans! We've been frew this a dozen times. I don't have any weapons of mass destwuction, OK Hans?

Hans Blix: Then let me look around, so I can ease the UN's collective mind. I'm sorry, but the UN must be firm with you. Let me in, or else.

Kim Jong Il: Or else what?

Hans Blix: Or else we will be very angry with you... and we will write you a letter, telling you how angry we are.

Kim Jong Il: OK, Hans. I'll show you. Stand to your reft.

Hans Blix: [Moves to the left]

Kim Jong Il: A rittle more.

Hans Blix: [Moves to the left again]

Kim Jong Il: Good. [Opens up trap, Hans falls in]