Friction behind the scenes.  The Leader is not supposed to have a president lobbying him against force.  “Iranian president pleads with Khamenei to prevent war with Israel – report,” I24, 8-7-24.  The report is not generated by Israeli news sources but by the Saudi Arabian-affiliated Iran International.  Also, remember the real issue—will Iran begin to turn away from violence and toward being a normal country?  They need to start somewhere.

“US offers $10 million for info on Iranian leaders behind CyberAv3ngers water utility attacks,” The Record, 8-7-24.  Protected by the IRGC.

“Putin Urges Iran to Exercise Restraint,” FDD, 8-7-24.

In the word(s) of Pres. Joe Biden, “Don’t.”  “Belarus’ Air Force chief meets Iranian commanders to discuss defense ties,” IRNA, 8-7-24.

“Iran executes 29 day after protester’s hanging: rights group,” VOA, 8-7-24.

Hiring a hitman is a favorite tactic of Quds.  Plotting revenge for the elimination of General Soleimani is also a favorite activity of Quds.  “US charges Iran-linked Pakistani over political assassination plot,” Al Jazeera, 8-7-24.  Remember that in these cases, the past several years have shown us, the U.S. collects evidences and announces charges, then Iran denies.  That is always the pattern.  Iran never addresses the allegations.

The longer this goes on and on (three weeks?), Iran looks weaker.  And if they do attack in a large way, that is what it is, the opening salvo (not in responding to terror) but in a war.  “Iran might be second-guessing its Israel attack,” Politico, 8-7-24.

“Iran could rethink Israel attack amid strong diplomatic pressure from US – report,” Times of Israel, 8-7-24.  “Show of US military strength could play role in Tehran lessening its threat, report claims, alongside Iran’s understanding that bomb that killed Hamas leader detonated remotely.”