Blackmail, pure and simple.  “This is the key point for Iran. It wants to remake the region and show that any country can be targeted with Iranian-backed weapons or Iranian proxies in Lebanon, Gaza, Yemen, Iraq and Syria. The attack on Abu Dhabi was a message to the region and the US, as well as the UAE.”  See “Iran reveals key details of Yemen Houthi attack on UAE – analysis,” Seth Frantzman, Jerusalem Post, January 19, 2022.

“Tunnel complex at Natanz nuclear facility in Iran ‘deeper than expected’,” JNS, January 19, 2022.

“US Sanctions 3 Men For Financial Fraud To Help Iran-Backed Hezbollah,” Iran International, January 19, 2022.

“China, Russia, Iran to hold joint maritime exercise: report,” Leng Shumei, Global Times, January 19, 2022.

“Iran’s Revolution Is Eating Its Own,” Ray Takeyh, FP, January 19, 2022.

Does Russia favor Iran or Israel?  “In Moscow, Putin and Raisi hail ties during decisive moment for Iran nuclear deal,” AFP, January 19, 2022.

Excellent reminders about how Iran was acting irresponsibly During the JCPOA, and how it acted irresponsibly after the U.S. under Trump called them out, and how Iran controls how it acts in violation of the JCPOA now—this is not Donald Trump causing Iran to rain down missiles and drones and spin centrifuges.  “Trump isn’t responsible for Iran’s aggressive behavior,” Bobby Ghosh, op-ed, Seattle Times, January 19, 2022.