Iranians

I have often mentioned herein that I believe Iranians to be a very misunderstood people. Since 1979 it has been the custom in America to consider Iran a pariah nation, part of the "Axis of Evil," and to sanction them at every turn, wherever possible. But I have maintained that Iran, Persia if you will, is an ancient and elegant culture, and that Iranians, or Persians, are a people of great courtesy and hospitality, gentle and considerate, a people of supple intelligence and great insight. My opinion is based on two things: 1) the actions of the Iranian people and government (informed and in context); and 2) my extensive dealings with Iranian Americans.

Today they proved that I am correct. Again.

Those two boats and ten sailors and marines that were seized by Iran a day or so ago, in Iranian territorial waters, were all released today by the Iranian government. They accepted the explanation of the U.S. personnel that it was all an unfortunate accident, and that the incursion was unintentional. Okay, no harm done, you can go now. They even let us take the boats back.

Think, for a moment, about the other demonized countries of the world, you know who they are. Can you imagine them behaving the same way in a similar situation? I can't.

So let's say thanks to our Iranian friends, and then let's do everything that we can to begin a new era in which they really are our famous friends, close and dear, working together to make the world safe for peace and beauty.