The discussion reflects concern that the continuing aggressive use of gunboats by Iran’s Pasdaran may result in a violent clash at sea.
A “hotline” or direct telephone connection was set up between Moscow and Washington in the early 1960s at the height of the Cold War and was used a few times to defuse tensions.
The Wall Street Journal reported on the proposal Monday. Pentagon officials later emphasized the discussion was at low levels and nothing had been presented to the top US leadership for a decision.
The Pasdaran gunboats frequently challenge warships from the United States and other countries as they enter the Persian Gulf. A few months ago, a British destroyer fired warning shots when one Pasdar gunboat maneuvered as if to ram the destroyer.
The problem is with the Pasdar maritime arm, which patrols the Persian Gulf, not with the Iranian Navy, which patrols outside he Persian Gulf. But The Wall Street Journal said US officials were wary of trying to engage the Pasdaran directly and were thinking more of a navy-to-navy phone link.
Even with the hotline to the Soviet Union, the US and Soviet navies had many close encounters in the 1970s. Those were finally resolved with an agreement that regulated contacts and barred buzzing ship with planes, sailing on a collision course and other provocative behaviors.
The US Navy is in regular “bridge-to-bridge” radio communications with Iranian Navy ships-not Pasdar gunboats-that come within visual range. US Navy officers have said those contacts have always been civil and professional. The Pasdaran sometimes direct curses and insults at American seamen.