U.S. Loves EU Sanctions of Iran, Ignores Own Situation

This reaction by the United States seems somewhat contradictory, albeit on differing levels of seriousness, as the U.S. itself has displayed a similar haughty and dismissive attitude.

The United States applauded the use of sanctions by the European Union against Iran today, citing the intransigence of the Iranian position on its nuclear program as a cause for action by the group of nations. This reaction by the United States seems somewhat contradictory, albeit on differing levels of seriousness, as the U.S. itself has displayed a similar haughty and dismissive attitude toward negotiation with the European Union as Iran.

While clearly the online gambling dispute between the U.S. and Europe is not a threat to cause war, still the fact remains that, by disregarding trade agreements and pursuing protectionist policies, the U.S. is as much in violation of treaties as the Iranians of nuclear non-proliferation pacts.

Further, when the European position happens to coincide with that of the U.S., American politicians laud the unity of the world against a rogue nation, unilaterally ignoring a worldwide consensus, outside the rule of law. Yet, despite the ignored award by the World Trade Organization to Antigua for damages regarding the protectionist and selective block of online casinos, and the ongoing investigation by the European Commission of the same offenses applied to European online gambling sites, the U.S. shrugs off serious inquiries by the EU.

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is said to be unlikely to be deterred by the sanctions, but may return to negotiations. The U.S. has replied to EU concerns that they don't see the existence of a problem, but will receive a delegation next month to discuss the issue. Both countries continue to follow policies that are internationally reviled, and do not bother with international law.

Again, admittedly the nuclear issue is far more urgent than the commerce issue of online gambling, but the inconsistency of the U.S. position is frustrating, if not outright appalling. To trumpet the dignity and praiseworthiness of the EU when policies happen to coincide, but belittle and ignore the same body if a difference of opinion surfaces reveals an egocentric and arrogant approach. What a surprise.