Iran's scorched earth strategy

A report in the German-language Der Spiegel claims that Iran is considering deliberately spilling oil into the Persian Gulf in response to international sanctions against it. 

Iran is considering the possibility of spilling oil in the Persian Gulf in order to contaminate the waters of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, German weekly Der Spiegel reported on Sunday. The spill would be a way of "punishing" the West and forcing it to decrease the economic sanctions imposed against Tehran.

Citing Western intelligence sources, Der Spiegel reported that the plan, codenamed "Murky Waters," is meant to block shipping routes in the Gulf to international oil tankers. 

In addition to driving up oil prices, the resulting environmental disaster would force Western countries to start a large-scale cleanup operation in cooperation with Iran, which could reduce the sanctions currently placed on the country.

The plan was developed by the commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guard, Gen. Mohammad Ali Jafari, and Navy Commander Rear Admiral Ali Fadavi, according to the report.

Der Spiegel reported that the decision on whether or not to implement the plan was now in the hands of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameni.

It would likely be much better for the environment if the US were to destroy Iran's nuclear weapons program. Anyone think this might move Obama? Don't bet on it.