The rationale underpining Washington's naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is quite simple: If I don't get it, I am more than ready to make it everybody's problem.

However, the belief that pressure can be precisely calibrated often gives way to unintended consequences that spiral out of control -- ultimately shooting the United States in the foot.

Anyway, forget about a messier Middle East or soaring oil prices, Washington is a master in the art of declaring victory.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service■