1.  Define the following words used in the article:

pre-emptive

converging

strategically 

unprecedented

 

2.  Why might Israel attack Iran?

 

3.  a) Where is the Strait of Hormuz?

b)  How would Iran's threatened blockade of the Strait of Hormuz affect the U.S. (and many other countries)?

 

4.  The U.S. navy and our allies take part in annual joint naval exercises.  Why is this year's gathering different than previous years?

 

5.  What type of exercises will the U.S. and its allies conduct?

 

6.  If there is a war, what is Iran's navy expected to do?  What type of harm is Iran's navy believed to be capable of?

 

7.  a) List the U.S. and British military equipment/vessels that will be used during the exercises.
b)  Consider our naval power as well as that of our allies.  Do you think if we had the will, the U.S. could take out Iran's navy with minimal harm to us or our allies?  Explain your answer.

 

8.  What is the purpose and significance of Iran's military maneuvers next month?

 

9.  What tests will the Iranian military perform during their war games?

 

10. Read the "Background" below the questions. 

The world knows Iran is working to make nuclear weapons, and they should achieve their objective in the near future.  The economic sanctions imposed on Iran have hurt them, but not been effective in getting them to end their quest for nuclear weapons, or even admit they are trying to develop them.  Israel has been an ally of the U.S. for many years.  Some say we should stay out of it - we don't want to be involved in another war.  What is the best way to deal with this growing problem?  What should U.S. policy be?  Ask a parent to answer this question also. Discuss your answers.