Level heads? In the Bush command? Who'lds a thunk it.

Rattling sabers at a perceived enemy is a time honored method of demonstrating a willingness to use military force, and to attempt to bring political power (diplomacy) into an equation with the imagined foe.

The over use of this method depleates its effectiveness and reduces the credibility of the party using it.

There is a very thin line between military presence and provocation. We were on that line. By sending additional warship flotillas we signaled an intent, we had already sent a warning. By not sending more, we may crack open the door for diplomacy, in the future (post-Bush). Regardless, diplomacy is the key - not another ill advised conflict.

Naming an Axis-of-Evil certainly hasn't been a boon to our ability to negotiate with those we have made our adversaries (or that were). Maybe, by showing restraint we can revise the Bush-Rumsfeld Doctrine of pre-emptive war to a negotiate first, second and last. Or, until all political resources have been expended, or we are actually attacked (militarily).

Then again, maybe not.