, not to return to the Persian Gulf.
The United States says there is room for diplomacy, but its forces will not allow an Iranian blockade.
"We cannot tolerate Iran blocking the Strait of Hormuz, and that's a red line," said U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta.
The U.S. also warned Iran against developing nuclear weapons, something that could trigger an attack by Israel.
Without powerful or modern equipment, Iran would resort to what analysts say are asymmetric warfare capabilities - small boats, mines and missiles that could be used in small scale, hit-and-run attacks on U.S. forces.
They say a full scale offensive could cost Iran the destruction of its armed forces in a matter of days, in the event of war with the U.S. or Israel.
"The balance of power between the United States and Iran and between Israel and Iran is overwhelmingly in the favor of the United States and Israel," said defense analyst Bruce Riedel.
Iran has plenty of reasons not to engage the U.S. and its allies in a full-scale confrontation, but if it does, U.S. officials say they are ready.
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2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25
2013-11-25