Can Apple really patent the iphone Pinch?

Wired Magazine has recently reported that Apple has filed for patent on the pinch gesture used on iPhone’s multi touch screen. This could potentially cause problems for upcoming multi touch enabled phones coming out by Nokia, Sony Ericsson and LG. The article also states that it can potentially cause problems for touch enabled laptops, ultra portable mobile devices and touch pads. According to patent lawyers, it can take upto 4 to 5 years for a patent to be even considered and other companies have also filed their patents as well. The main question is, will this come through? Will Apple be responsible for controlling the innovation on the touch enabled devices of the future?