I read the recent editorial (Herald, March 22) admonishing the president to end the Iranian war before the arrival of the Marines. I question that reasoning. The Marines are being sent to address two critical tasks that must be completed before the war can end – consistent with the president’s directive that Iran must never possess nuclear weapons.
The first task requires boots on the ground: securing and administering Iran’s oil assets on Kharg Island. An additional benefit would be reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping without fear of Iranian reprisal.
The second task, also requiring boots on the ground, is locating and securing Iran’s remaining nuclear material before it can be enriched to weapons grade.
Both objectives are well worth the involvement of Marine Expeditionary Forces – and accomplishing them is the surest path to a conclusion that benefits all parties, contrary to the Herald’s position.
Stan Mason
Durango
