International tensions continue to mount over Iran's nuclear program and the possibility that the Islamic Republic will produce an atomic warhead for its long-range missiles.

The hardline regime in Tehran recently carried out military exercises in the Persian Gulf's Strait of Hormuz, a passageway through which most of the world's oil is transported.

One Iranian leader said Iran could shut down oil supplies to the world if it were attacked.

Then came reports that Iran has the ability to enrich uranium well beyond what's needed for peaceful energy purposes.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called that announcement a "significant" step toward nuclear weapons.

The latest developments have some Middle East experts saying Iran has reached a critical turning point.

Jonathan Schanzer, vice president of research for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, discusses recent international efforts to punish the Iranian regime, the possibility of an Israeli air strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, and more, on CBN News Channel Morning News, Jan. 18.