Iran's roar

The appearance of British Seaman Faye Turney on Iranian television [above] with a Muslim head covering sparked controversy

Iran gains in standoff with Britain Sally Buzbee

Iran emerged with a measure of strength from its standoff with Britain over the captured sailors — deflecting attention from its disputed nuclear program and proving it can cause trouble in the Middle East when it chooses.

Yet the country's hardline leaders also shied away from all-out confrontation with the West — backing down once they had flexed their power, apparently worried they might go too far...

[Demonstrating] clever brinkmanship, Iran clearly gained some respect from the dispute...
[AP]


Iran Sets Free 15 Seized Britons -Sarah Lyall

Iran on Thursday released the 15 British sailors and marines it seized at sea nearly two weeks ago, in what Iran's president called a "gift" to the British people.
(New York Times)