Today’s Jerusalem Post posted an article about the delivery of Russian S-300 anti-missile system to Iran.  Evidently, Russia promised the system in its bid to gain more influence in the Middle East, but seems to be waffling on if or when it will actually deliver the system.

The article points out:

“…last week’s visit by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu to Russia, aimed at acquiring a guarantee from Moscow that it will not sell Iran the S-300, was seen by Russia as a very positive development. Netanyahu walked away from the meeting expressing confidence in Russia’s desire to maintain regional stability.”

There are a few things to consider here.  First of all, Russia has never been known to be a team player on any team.  Russia will do whatever it needs to in order to get whatever it wants.  It is not a country known to be overly cooperative with any other country.  Second of all, if this system is delivered, it will make an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facility much more complicated–not impossible–just more complicated.  The third thing to consider is the state of anti-government feelings in Iran.  The rather perverse government of Iran may be attempting to instigate an attack against Iran in an effort to unite the people of Iran against a common enemy and end the current unrest.

Unfortunately, there are no good options in dealing with an Iran about to become a nuclear power.  The only hope of avoiding that is another Iranian revolution.