World War III?
Now, I don't wish to jump to conclusions. And World War III certainly isn't going on. But there is a conflict of serious matter going on in Georgia, specifically South Ossetia. Oh, you've heard about this?
Apparently, Ukraine are now considering joining the conflict. Probably on Georgia's side. But still, that does not involve NATO. So far, it is only Russia dealing with its former U.S.S.R. members. Countries, that Russia have lot of interest in. And, if everything was up to them, they'll get them back. So far, Russia only considers the Baltic countries — Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania — lost. Since they have joined both NATO and the EU.
So, again, World War III? Seriously? Not unless NATO, or its members make the wrong move. And what is a likely wrong move? Bombing Iran.
I know what you're thinking, what the hell does Iran have to do with this? This is not the Cold War, dude, everything is not West and East any more! You are just like the damn CIA in the 1970s, who couldn't tell what was going on in Iran!
True, but let's start considering the scenario that either U.S. or Israel bombs Iran. The scenarios may differ slightly, perhaps in the way the responds is delivered by Iran or how fast. But most certainly, they will bomb strategic locations in Israel, and they will invade Iraq.
Yes, invade Iraq. Iran wants Iraq. Ever since those events back in 1980s, they've wanted Iraq. Just never had the chance. It may even be plausible to assume that Iran create the nuclear programme for the sake of making the world think they were getting nuclear weapons, so they would bomb them, and give Iran the justification for entering Iraq.
If that happens, Iraq will be won by Iran. Won't take too long. While Iraq is not a member of NATO, either. It is still largely protected by US forces, and considered a major interest area of US. And the US will be obligated to retaliate. Even only to defend Iraq, and not invade Iran.
This will effectively mean that Iran will be at war with NATO. Russia will most likely side with Iran, because Russia (and China) have interests in Iran.
Of course, this scenario requires that several parts make some wrong moves, though these moves are not unlikely, considering who we are dealing with.
Please, don't elect McCain.