Month: March 2026

“US says 16 Iranian mine-laying ships ‘eliminated’, as Iran launches attacks across region,” BBC, 3-11-26.

The genocidal Quds Day is about to happen, and in London at least there is finally some semblance of lucidity on this topic, with the announcement today that the annual parade will be barred due to the extreme risks to the public.  This event, created by the Iran Regime, is the stated desire to erase Israel from the map and kill all Jews “From the River to the Sea” (from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean) and take over Jerusalem.  See “Al Quds march banned in London to prevent ‘serious public disorder’,” Sky News, 3-11-26.  Remember, this is the only holiday in the world in which one country calls for the destruction of another country (I wish that I was making this up, but I’m not).

“Iran’s Sea Mines Are One of Its Most Powerful Weapons,” WSJ, 3-11-26

“Former CENTCOM chief outlines challenges of recovering Iran’s uranium stockpile,” CNN, 3-11-26.

“Kharg Island: Iran’s ‘untouchable’ oil artery?” France 24, 3-11-26.  So if the U.S. doesn’t want to impact the use of oil in a new government and to aid the people of Iran, we doesn’t allow Iranian tankers to fill but to corral them in the Sea of Oman?  Iran would quickly turn off the valve, right?  But then Kharg is not damaged.

“Pace of Iran’s Retaliatory Strikes Appears to Be Slowing,” NYT, 3-11-26.  “Across the Gulf countries alone, Iran has launched more than 2,100 drones, 500 ballistic missiles and 20 cruise missiles since the war began on Feb. 28, according to a New York Times tally of reports from defense ministries and regional officials. More strikes have hit Israel, but the government is not sharing data about the quantity of weapons coming in.

“IRGC says attack on Israel tonight a ‘joint and integrated operation’ with Hezbollah,” Times of Israel, 3-11-26.

Right call by the U.S.  “Trump will welcome Iran at World Cup – Infantino,” BBC, 3-11-26.

“IRGC says attack on Israel tonight a ‘joint and integrated operation’ with Hezbollah,” Times of Israel, 3-11-26.  The headline announces what has always beneath the waves for years.

“Turkish Bank Accused of Laundering Billions for Iran Gets a Reprieve,” NYT, 3-11-26.  “The government, which revealed the agreement with the bank in court papers made public on Monday, said Turkey deserved leniency because of the critical help it had provided in negotiating the release of hostages from the Hamas-led attack against Israel in 2023 and in bringing about a cease-fire in the war that followed.  …  At the heart of the indictment against Halkbank was the accusation that it had helped Iran gain access to some $20 billion in oil and gas revenue while evading U.S. sanctions — part of an alleged multiyear scheme that included tens of millions of dollars in bribes paid to high-ranking government officials in Iran and Turkey and collaboration with a flamboyant gold trader, Reza Zarrab.”

Good article by NYT.  This is not your father’s Oldsmobile.  This is not your typical president or prime minister’s office and powers.  SETAD and Quds and control of the economy and the IRGC and other factors make this a radical regime run directly by 4,000 persons in Khamenei’s Office.  “New Supreme Leader Inherits Sprawling, Secretive Office That Dominates Iran,” NYT, 3-10-26.  And here’s a good quote from the article, “Iran has already moved from a theocratic regime to the theocratic security system under Khamenei, and now it is moving toward a more complete security state under Mojtaba.”

Will any type of media award be given to Iran International for this story?  Compare it to bunkers other despots have.  Think of the violations of international law.  And, please consider the financial cost and what was taken instead from the people of Iran to build this unneeded monstrosity.  “Khamenei’s Tehran bunker: 5 kilometers of tunnels under schools and clinics,” Iran International, 3-10-26.

Ali Larijani, Iran’s top national security official, warned President Trump to “take care of yourself, so that you are not eliminated,” in a social media post responding to the president’s comments yesterday that the United States would hit Iran “twenty times harder” if it tried to stop the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. “Iran is not afraid of your pointless threats,” Mr. Larijani wrote.  “Live Updates: Hegseth Says Tuesday Will Be ‘Most Intense’ for U.S. Strikes on Iran,” NYT, 3-10-26.

“Iranian cyber suspect wanted by FBI killed in US-Israeli strikes,” Iran International, 3-10-26.

Axios writes that “20 countries are now militarily involved — shooting, shielding or quietly supplying.”  “A world at war: Iran conflict goes global,” Axios, 3-10-26.

The failure to yet disarm Hezbollah is now before us.  700,000 have left their homes.  “Lebanese officials and aid groups warn of a growing humanitarian crisis amid mass displacement,” NYT, 3-10-26.

“Iranian barrages target Israel and Gulf countries as US warns Iran of ‘most intense day of strikes’,” AP, 3-10-26.

“Iran’s threats on U.S. soil: sleeper cells, lone wolves, cyberattacks and eerie numbers code,” LA Times, 3-10-26.

Israel media is usually pretty good about this, but this article does not mention a critical element:  Hezbollah is Iran.  Founded, funded, supplied, trained, directed.  See “Israel prepares for extended Hezbollah campaign that could surpass Iran war – report,” i24, 3-10-26.

Notice the jewelry worn by Badfar in the photo.  Well, there are people celebrating in the streets over his passing.  “Basij chief at Iran armed forces general staff killed in US-Israeli strikes,” Iran International, 3-10-26.

All those persons out there who want to follow international law (even at the expense of national self interest) need to immediately denounce what Iran has done, as mining international straits is illegal (i.e., Corfu Channel case) and against national self interest–of all countries.  “Iran lays mines in Strait of Hormuz, threatening global oil flow – report,” i24, 3-10-26.

“Half of Iranian missiles fired at Israel had cluster bomb warheads, IDF assesses,” Times of Israel, 3-10-26.

“A leader no one has seen: The unusual debut of Mojtaba Khamenei,” Iran International, 3-10-26.

“Satire spreads online as Iranians await new leader unveiling,’” Iran International, 3-10-26.

“Iran war threatens Board of Peace,” Politico, 3-10-26.

“Iran’s Control of Hormuz Means It’s Exporting More Oil Today Than Before the War,” WSJ, 3-10-26.

“Graham cautions Israel on targeting oil sector as prices surge over 25%,” i24, 3-9-26.  “Writing on X, Graham said Israel had shown “amazing capability when it comes to collapsing the murderous regime in Iran” but urged restraint in selecting targets tied to the country’s oil economy. “Our goal is to liberate the Iranian people in a fashion that does not cripple their chance to start a new and better life when this regime collapses. The oil economy of Iran will be essential to that endeavor.””

Now we know why there was a delay in announcing the new Leader.  (This is a little bit of a joke–when you look at the placards the persons were holding in the media pictures, they are all the same picture, and since the local IRGC print shop was closed for a couple of days, the Regime had to order out and received an overnight shipment from NK Printing).  But the I.I. story is real.  “Regime supporters hold placards for new Iran supreme leader in Tehran,” Iran International, 3-9-26.

“Ukraine Helps U.S. Mideast Bases With Stopping Drones,” NYT, 3-9-26.  Against Iranian-made Shaheds purchased by Russia, “Ukraine adapted, using heavy machine guns, less expensive rockets fired by F-16s, electronic jammers and new interceptor drones built in Ukraine.”  And nets.  Patriot interceptor missiles cost $3M each.  Shaheds cost $50,000.  “Those missiles are in short supply. Just 620 of the most advanced Patriots were delivered to militaries in 2025, and that was a record level. In the first few days of the Iran war last week, Middle Eastern countries burned through more than 800 Patriot missiles, according to Mr. Zelensky and Andrius Kubilius, the European commissioner for defense and space. That barrage was used to counter more than 2,000 one-way Iranian attack drones and more than 500 ballistic missiles. Dmytro Lytvyn, an adviser to Mr. Zelensky, said that in the entire four years of the war in Ukraine, Kyiv had received only about 600 advanced Patriots.”  And the Ukraine Octopus, effective against the Shaheds, only costs about $3,000.  Do the math.

“NATO shoots down second Iranian missile over Turkey,” LBC, 3-9-26.

“FBI deputy director says evidence suggests Robert Levinson died in Iran captivity,” Iran International, 3-9-26.  Some persons have followed this case very closely.  Serious hostage taking during the Regime’s life.

“Qatar PM Says Iran ‘Betrayed’ Gulf With Attacks,” WSJ, 3-9-26.  Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani said Tehran’s ‘miscalculation’ in attacking Gulf countries ‘destroyed everything’ in their relationship, speaking in an interview with Sky News.”

“As War With Iran Rages, the Axis of Resistance is in Survival Mode,” War on the Rocks, 3-9-26.

“Iran war: What is happening on day 10 of US-Israel attacks?,” Al Jazeera, 3-9-26.

“From Tehran to Europe: Terrorism Risks After the Killing of Iran’s Ayatollah,” ICCT, 3-9-26.

Blackmail by Iran.  “‘Reprehensible’: New wave of Iranian missiles, drones target Gulf nations,” Al Jazeera, 3-9-26.

“A Mysterious Code Is Being Broadcast on Shortwave Radio. Is It Iran?,” Atlantic, 3-9-26.

“Iran’s new leader has never been tested. He now faces an existential battle,” BBC, 3-9-26.

I’m reading this breaking story late at night–too bad it wasn’t dated 3-10-26 to lead the next day’s blog news.  The story will raise questions of foreign ownership in the UK and ill intents due to its location.  Also, what else does the Regime own in London?  “New ayatollah owns £35m London flats near Israeli embassy – report,” i24, 3-9-26.  “[T]he apartments were bought in 2014 and 2016 on behalf of Khamenei, the son of Iran’s former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. … One apartment was purchased in March 2014 for £16.75 million, while the second was acquired in November 2016 for £19 million. The two properties are now estimated to be worth close to £50 million and include separate staff quarters. The flats are located in Kensington Palace Gardens, one of London’s most exclusive residential streets. The address is adjacent to the Israeli embassy and close to Kensington Palace. Britain’s intelligence services are aware of the properties, according to the report. The development comes as scrutiny increases over the overseas assets of Iranian officials and individuals linked to the country’s leadership.

“Washington Rally Supports Iranian Transitional Government,” Iran Focus, 3-9-26.

“IDF: More than 1,900 Iranian Regime members killed since start of Iran operation,” i24, 3-9-26.

“Iran Isn’t Winning This War,” WSJ, 3-9-26.

Israel and the U.S. have been tracking him for days.  See my earlier posts to understand who he is and the danger he holds in perpetuating the Regime.  “Iran announces Mojtaba Khamenei as new supreme leader,” Iran International, 3-8-26.

The choice of words is choice.  Iran kills its own people.  “Iran will “continue fighting for the sake of our people,” Abbas Araghchi said.”  See “Foreign minister dismisses idea of Iran surrendering,” Politico, 3-8-26.

“Are Iranian Agents Still in Venezuela?,” WSJ, 3-8-26.

“UAE says Iran has fired 16 ballistic missiles and 117 drones in new barrages,” Politico, 3-8-26.  Almost all were shot down.

“Attacks on Desalination Drag Water Supplies Into War With Iran,” WSJ, 3-8-26.  “Bahrain, where the drone strike occurred, is almost completely dependent on its plants for drinking water for its population of 1.6 million. Israel depends on the plants for about 80% of its drinkable water. About 90% of Kuwait’s water needs are met by desalination.”  It is beyond ironic that Iran, refusing for years to provide its own people with enough drinking water, is now attacking other country’s efforts to provide water to their peoples.

“De Facto Wartime Leader Steers Iran’s Defiant Response to the U.S.,” WSJ, 3-8-26.  It will be telling to see if Larijani sidelines Mojtaba Khamenei, the new “Leader.”

Knock out the Shaheds on the ground.  Put a US navy convoy in the Strait.  “The Long-Feared Persian Gulf Oil Squeeze Is Upon Us,” WSJ, 3-8-26.  “Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has ground to a virtual halt, unleashing the most severe energy crisis since the 1970s and threatening the global economy.” … “We are looking at what is by far the biggest disruption in world history in terms of daily oil production,” said energy historian Daniel Yergin. “If it goes on for weeks, it will reverberate across the global economy.” That is exactly what Iran wants, Yergin said. Attacking energy facilities and shipping appears to be a Hail Mary attempt to make the war so painful for the American and allied economies that Trump backs down—as when Russia slashed natural-gas supplies in a failed bid to splinter Ukraine’s backers in 2022. Analysts fear that even a weakened Iran could keep the strait closed with missiles and drones, similar to the tactics its Yemeni allies, the Houthis, employed in the Red Sea in recent years. U.S. crude futures shot up 36% last week, their biggest surge since the market began in 1983. After Trump’s call on Friday for Iran’s unconditional surrender squashed hope on Wall Street that he might reach a speedy peace deal, prices rose more than they have on a single day since rebounding from the pandemic crash in 2020. They rose another 20% after markets opened on Sunday evening. The strait isn’t officially closed or physically blocked, and a small number of vessels have traversed it, some carrying Iranian crude. Still, on Sunday, more than 1,000 ships were waiting to pass through, their owners and sailors scared of being attacked after strikes on at least nine vessels that left one crew member dead.

“Iran Signals a Fight to the End With Appointment of Khamenei’s Son,” WSJ, 3-8-26.

“Scoop: U.S. dismayed by Israel’s Iran fuel strikes, sources say,” Axios, 3-8-26.

“Iraq Becomes Battleground for U.S. Forces Once Again,” WSJ, 3-8-26.

“Kurdish leader links potential Iran ground push to US-enforced no-fly zone,” Politico, 3-8-26.

I’m reminded how Iraq treated their athletes years ago.  Thankfully, Australia offered asylum to those who wanted it.  “Iran soccer team exits Women’s Asian Cup and faces the prospect of a return home,” 3-8-26.

He apologizes for the missile and drone attacks on his Arab neighbors but keeps sending them.  Classic.  “Iranian President’s Apology Showcases Leadership Rifts,” NYT, 3-7-26.

Now we know why the U.S. bombed some of the entry sites at Fordow, etc. in the early days of the March War; we’ve been waiting for this article.  And please remember, and what is not said in this NYT story (why won’t the NYT say this?!) is that Iran’s actions over weeks and months after June clearly indicated the desire to go forward with their nuclear weapons program, and they weren’t stopping despite the June 12-Day War.  And they weren’t stopping during the bad-faith negotiations prior to the March military action by Israel and the U.S.  “Iran Could Retrieve Uranium at Site U.S. Bombed Last Year, Officials Say,” NYT, 3-7-26.  This is why we have CIA, NRO, etc., doing their best to stop bad actors from nuclear proliferation.  “American intelligence agencies have determined that Iran or potentially another group could retrieve Iran’s primary store of highly enriched uranium even though it was entombed under the country’s nuclear site at Isfahan by U.S. strikes last year, according to multiple officials familiar with the classified reports. Officials familiar with the intelligence said that Iran can now get to the uranium through a very narrow access point. It is unclear how quickly Iran could move the uranium, which is in gas form and stored in canisters. U.S. officials have said that American spy agencies have constant surveillance of the Isfahan site and have a high degree of confidence they could detect — and react — to any attempt by the Iranian government or other groups to move it. That stockpile of uranium would be a key building block if Iran decided to move toward making a nuclear weapon.” … On Saturday, President Trump was asked by reporters on Air Force One if he would consider sending in ground forces to secure the highly enriched uranium. “Right now we’re just decimating them, but we haven’t gone after it,” he said. “But something we could do later on. We wouldn’t do it now.” … In recent weeks, beginning before the current military campaign began, U.S. officials have debated various options to secure the uranium or try to block Iran’s access to it. As his public comments demonstrated, Mr. Trump has made no decision on sending in the ground forces to secure the uranium, and is considering various options. A senior official said a commando raid was not part of the current plan for the Iran war. It is also possible that the U.S. government is hoping that the overt threat of a ground operation may force Iran to give up its stockpile as part of a negotiation to end the war. Iran has about 970 pounds of highly enriched uranium, the bulk of which is at Isfahan, according to American officials. The current stockpile has been enriched to 60 percent and would have to be furthered enriched to 90 percent to make a weapon. But that step is relatively easy if Iran’s centrifuges are operational. … Ahead of the U.S. attacks last June, Iranian officials moved to protect the nuclear sites, pushing dirt into the entrances of underground facilities, including the tunnel network at Isfahan where the uranium was being kept. When the United States launched the attacks, it used the largest weapon in its conventional arsenal, the Massive Ordnance Penetrator, to strike the underground facilities at Natanz and Fordo. But the U.S. military used Tomahawk cruise missiles to strike the base at Isfahan. In addition to the uranium stockpile, Isfahan was home to Iran’s test reactor and a facility where uranium gas would be transformed into a dense metal. That process, known as metallization, is a critical step in producing a nuclear weapon. Soon after the strike, high resolution spy satellites detected that Iran had moved excavation equipment to Isfahan, and had begun to access the underground tunnels, according to U.S. officials and others briefed on the intelligence. The spy satellite images showed Iranians moving both the dirt they placed in the tunnel entrances and debris generated by the Tomahawk strikes, the people said. An analysis of commercial satellite imagery by The New York Times’s visual investigations team reached similar conclusions, finding evidence of digging in multiple areas of Isfahan. At one location just north of the main facility, satellite photos show several pieces of excavating equipment moving earth. The images indicate that workers had excavated a pit, placed an unidentified object inside of it under a tarp, then buried it. At another location northeast of the main facility, there was not much activity until last month, when satellite images showed what appeared to be a crane moving dirt into a truck. A large amount of earth moving was seen at several of the tunnel entrances in satellite imagery taken in February, including a tunnel on the western side, as seen in a time lapse of commercial satellite imagery. It is unclear whether the dirt was taken to a dumping site or moved to the tunnel entrances to protect them from future strikes. Earlier this year, researchers at the Institute for Science and International Security also noticed increased activity on the road leading to the tunnel entrances. They suggested in a report that some tunnel entrances were being buried by soil as a possible preparation for strikes, similar to Iran’s activities ahead of the June 2025 strikes.”

“Breaking News: Jordan Armed Forces: Iran targeted Jordanian territory with 119 missiles and drones in 1 week,” Petra, 3-7-26.

“Recent U.S. Assessment Found an Attack on Iran Unlikely to Result in Regime Change,” NYC 3-7-26.  “A report by the National Intelligence Council completed before the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran assessed that even a large-scale military assault on the country would be unlikely to topple its theocratic government, according to U.S. officials briefed on the work. … The CIA “assessed that a complete change of government was unlikely even if Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader, was killed in a U.S.-led military operation. But the actual report was an independent product of the council, the officials said. Still, there seemed to be wide agreement that the theological government in Iran is deeply entrenched. Intelligence officials have been skeptical that a popular uprising could dislodge the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.”

What?!  An article from South America to lead today?  Granted, Venezuela did not have 45+ years of going off the rails, so it can more quickly become a normal country for its own people, neighbors, and the world.  And it can be brought out, we hope, from the dark orbit of Russia and China.  But the U.S. is trying.  “US and Venezuela agree to resume diplomatic ties after Maduro capture,” BBC, 3-6-26.  “The US state department said its engagement was focused on helping Venezuelan people move forward through a “phased process that creates the conditions for a peaceful transition to a democratically elected government”. After a visit to Venezuela, US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum told reporters on the runway in Caracas on Thursday on his way back to the US that it was a “brilliant strategic move” to intervene in Venezuela before Iran.”  And yes, there are minerals and oil and other resources, which are partly at the heart of how VE has acted under its past two leaders that led it to its downfall.

“Russia provided Iran with information that can help Tehran strike US military, sources say,” Military Times, 3-6-26.  “Russia has provided Iran with information that could help Tehran strike American warships, aircraft and other assets in the region, according to two officials familiar with U.S. intelligence on the matter.”  Russia relies on Iranian drones for its Ukraine war.  The U.S. has been trying to stop the flow.

Iran looking to terrorize or kill Jews in London.  “Four arrested on suspicion of assisting Iran’s intelligence service,” BBC, 3-6-26.

“Iran says it targets heart of Tel Aviv,” Reuters, 3-6-26.

“Iran’s Chokehold on Persian Gulf Waterway Strains Shipping,” NYT, 3-6-26.

The U.S. quickly needs help from Ukraine acquiring Octopus drones, etc.  “Iran adds new urgency to Pentagon’s Ukraine drone deal,” Politico, 3-6-26.  “Several U.S. allies have worked more quickly than the Trump administration to harness Ukraine’s stunning innovation in developing new drones.  The U.K. in particular has already invested in the Ukrainian drone industry and the Kyiv-based Ukrspecsystems is opening a factory in the U.K. to build new, cheap military drones that will create 500 jobs — a manufacturing boost that the Trump team has long said is a central component of its increased defense spending. The U.K. has also started to produce the Ukrainian-designed Octopus interceptor drones, which can target the Iranian/Russian Shahed drones. The Octopus costs about $3,000 to produce, a small slice of the $50,000 for a Shahed, and a fraction of the $3 million- plus for a PAC-2 or PAC-3 Patriot interceptor missiles which Gulf allies are currently using to shoot down the incoming Shaheds, according to a U.S. official. Often it takes several Patriot interceptor missiles to hit a single drone, an unsustainable proposition given the cost. The Israelis are also using their “Iron Beam” system – a directed energy weapon they have been developing for years. … But as Iranian drones have hammered hotels, military bases, oil and gas-producing facilities and embassies across the Gulf, Trump made it clear this week in an interview with Reuters that he’d accept “any assistance from any country” when it comes to fending them off. “The U.S. is years behind on tactical drone technology — the kind you see on the battlefield in Ukraine,” a former Pentagon official said, noting that the deficiency would be of greater concern in a ground war. “If the U.S. fought in Ukraine right now, for example, we would suffer mass casualties.” Facing the same threat and limited help from its allies, Ukraine developed expertise in shooting down drones with anti-aircraft guns, truck-mounted machine guns, cheap missiles as well as “interceptor” drones — fast-flying craft that can catch and destroy Shaheds. But Ukraine still relies on its allies, and especially the U.S., for systems like Patriots to protect against ballistic missiles. Kyiv has complained that shortages of interceptor missiles left Ukrainian cities vulnerable during this year’s freezing winter. … But despite any frustrations and even before an agreement on drones was finalized, Zelenskyy pledged Ukraine’s assistance. “There will be security support from Ukraine,” he said in a Thursday evening statement. “The main thing is that this will allow us to expand our security cooperation with partners. By protecting countries from the Iranian regime, we are adding to our defense capabilities.”

“Strikes Batter Iran’s Storied Azadi Stadium Complex,” NYT, 3-6-26.  With the Regime having troops quartering in the stadium, and with the IRGC using the stadium interior to shoot ballistic missiles skyward, is it any doubt this was a military target?  Nowhere in the story is this mentioned.  Frustrating.  I don’t like to have to factcheck the NYT.  See “Iranian Stadiums Used as Military Deployment Sites,” Iran Wire, 3-6-26.

“Guards push fast Mojtaba Khamenei announcement amid dissent over hereditary rule,” Iran International, 3-5-26.  I will include most of this story below because this is a key moment when a new leader is selected (imposed).  “Iran’s Assembly of Experts is set to hold an emergency session on Thursday to formally announce Mojtaba Khamenei, a son of the late Supreme Leader, as the next leader, despite opposition from some members who warn against “hereditary leadership.”  …  Two sources from the offices of Assembly of Experts representatives told Iran International that at least eight members will not attend the emergency session on Thursday in protest at what they described as “heavy pressure” from the Revolutionary Guards to impose Mojtaba Khamenei. The first emergency meeting of the clerical body to choose a successor to Ali Khamenei was held on Tuesday, but ended prematurely after Israeli airstrikes targeted the Assembly building in the city of Qom. According to sources, Thursday’s meeting will be held online and managed from a building near the shrine of Fatima Masumeh in Qom. Some representatives and members of the Assembly’s leadership board who live in Qom may attend in person.” Sources told Iran International that a group of opponents contacted the Assembly’s chairman and members of its leadership board on Wednesday, warning that declaring Mojtaba Khamenei leader could raise public concerns about the leadership becoming hereditary and the Islamic Republic resembling a monarchy. … Another member argued that Mojtaba Khamenei “does not have an established, public clerical and jurisprudential standing,” and for that reason his selection as the state’s Supreme Jurist (Vali-ye Faqih) would lack religious legitimacy, the sources added. These representatives called for Mojtaba Khamenei to withdraw and for a new vote to be held at Thursday’s session. Some opponents also signaled that if Mojtaba Khamenei does not withdraw, they may consider the selection process “invalid,” a step that could deepen divisions within the ruling establishment and intensify the Islamic Republic’s legitimacy crisis. After the historic National Assembly building in Tehran –where the clerical body traditionally meets – was bombed on Monday, the first session to select Ali Khamenei’s successor was held online on Tuesday without public announcement. Information sent to Iran International indicates that from early Tuesday, Revolutionary Guard commanders across different cities pressured Assembly members to vote for Mojtaba Khamenei through in-person meetings and phone calls. Sources said repeated contacts and psychological and political pressure on representatives continued until minutes before the online meeting began, creating what they described as an “unnatural” atmosphere inside the session. The Assembly leadership board insisted the vote be held quickly due to the country’s security situation. Several members opposed to Mojtaba Khamenei were given limited time to present their arguments, but the leadership board moved forward with the vote, cutting short further discussion. … Sources said that after the vote and shortly before the count was completed, the Assembly building in Qom – where the online session was being managed – was struck in Israeli airstrikes and communications were cut. Hours later, members of the Assembly were informed in phone calls that Mojtaba Khamenei had been selected as Supreme Leader by a majority of votes. … Information received by Iran International also indicates that threatening pressure from the Revolutionary Guards to persuade opposing representatives has continued. According to the sources, Guards commanders have been contacting and lobbying members directly to discourage them from boycotting the meeting or expressing public opposition.”

“Iran targets headquarters of Iranian Kurdish forces in Iraq,” BBC, 3-5-26.

“Shipping giant suspends Gulf shipping bookings until further notice,” Roya News, 3-5-26.

“Kurds backed by Mossad, CIA could lead next phase of war in Iran,” Axios, 3-5-26.

When I saw the news today calling Sri Lanka “neutral,” I thought “I don’t think so.”  For example, see “Sri Lanka-Iran Foreign Relations,” Critical Threats, 7-6-10.  SL and Iran are close.  So the following from the NYT I think could be challenged.  It’s headline is “Sri Lanka Is Caught in the Middle as Second Iranian Vessel Seeks Safe Haven,” NYT, 3-5-26, and it’s post-title runner is “A day after rescuing Iranian sailors from the wreckage of a warship sunk by a U.S. submarine, Sri Lanka’s neutrality is being tested.”  What neutrality?  It later goes on to state, “Sri Lanka, which has taken a neutral position on the conflict, …”  That’s right, a non-neutral, even an ally of Iran, can’t claim to be neutral on the current conflict.  Convenient.  “A day after an Iranian ship was torpedoed by the U.S. in the waters near Sri Lanka, the country’s president said his government has allowed a second Iranian ship [the IRINS Bushehr] to dock in one of its ports and allowed its crew into the country.”  The NYT reports “Sri Lanka and Iran have solid political and economic ties. The former bought $250 million worth of crude oil shipments from Iran before sanctions on the Middle Eastern country kicked in over its nuclear program. The two sides agreed to an oil-for-tea” barter deal, which allows Sri Lanka to pay Iran in monthly installments of tea, a top export to Iran.”  For the several who have said everyone must follow international law, remember the EEZ where Sri Lanka is not protected like territorial waters.  And President Dissanayake has put the second Iranian naval vessel after it unloaded its crew not in territorial waters but in the EEZ.  The Iran ship Dena was in Sri Lanka’s EEZ yesterday when a U.S. submarine torpedoed it.  I predict since Sri Lanka is harboring (excuse the pun) the sailors and the boat is in the EEZ, it will soon be at the bottom of the EEZ.

One of the most biased or misleading headlines, by PBS.  “Iranian warship was sailing home from India exhibition when U.S. sank it,” PBS, 3-5-26.  What does that make you think?  This ship was in a parade in another country, just minding its own business and blowing its horn and displaying flags, before it was ruthlessly attacked?  Or here’s another thought you might have, at the other end of the spectrum.  It is a warship, returning to the theater of battle—what are its opponent’s supposed to do?  They take it out.  It was poor decision-making by the captains (both, there are two ships).  At the least they should have asked to stay in India.  The next step was to surrender to the U.S., their ships might have been spared but their sailors certainly would have.  Shouldn’t PBS pick a title like “Captains endanger their crew by returning to war zone” or “Inexperience of Iran Navy on display off Sri Lanka.”

“Exclusive: Trump says he must be involved in picking Iran’s next leader,” Politico, 3-5-26.  “President Trump told Axios in an interview Thursday that he needs to be personally involved in selecting Iran’s next leader — just as he was in Venezuela. … Why it matters: Trump acknowledged that Mojtaba Khamenei, son of assassinated supreme leader Ali Khamenei, is the most likely successor — while making clear he finds that outcome unacceptable. For several days, the Iranian regime has postponed the announcement of the new supreme leader. But statements by Iranian politicians on Thursday suggested an announcement could be imminent. What he’s saying: “They are wasting their time. Khamenei’s son is a lightweight. I have to be involved in the appointment, like with Delcy [Rodriguez] in Venezuela,” Trump said. He added that he refuses to accept a new Iranian leader who would continue Khamenei’s policies, which he said would force the U.S. back to war “in five years.” “Khamenei’s son is unacceptable to me. We want someone that will bring harmony and peace to Iran,” Trump said.”

I don’t make these things up.  Both of these are real, stories in today’s news, and are connected.  First, the news many of us expected, that the Guardian Council would not follow Shia law and earlier pronouncements for several years by the Leader himself that his successor would be of Grand Ayatollah religious status.  Instead, his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, may be chosen, creating a monarchy.  “Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s Son Emerges as Leading Choice to Be His Successor,” NYT, 3-4-26.  “Khamenei is known for having close ties to the Revolutionary Guards. The Guards, according to the three officials, pushed for his appointment, arguing that he had the qualifications needed to steer Iran in this time of crisis.  “Mojtaba is the wisest pick right now because he is intimately familiar with running and coordinating security and military apparatuses,” said Mehdi Rahmati, an analyst in Tehran. “He was in charge of this already.””  BTW, when the Leader was killed Saturday, the Regime has announced that his wife and another son were killed in the same strike, along with the wife of Mojtaba.  Second, what an ironic headline and story, which the critics will run with, the privileges of the wealthy, but also a symbol of what is wrong in Iran.  See “Mojtaba Khamenei, set to lead Iran, underwent months of medical treatment for impotence in UK,” i24, 3-4-26.  “Despite these personal health struggles, he has long wielded influence within the Supreme Leader’s office, maintaining close ties with the IRGC and managing access to his father.”  There will be questions today by reporters for London’s Wellington and Cromwell hospitals, why they allowed the son of a dictator to not only receive medical treatment, but which could result (as it did) to continue the bloodline (no pun intended) of the next Ali, named after his grandfather.

“Video of moment US torpedo hits Iranian warship released by Pentagon,” BBC, 3-4-26.

“Iranian missile intercepted by NATO air defenses before entering Turkish airspace | LIVE BLOG,” i24, 3-4-26.  This is a story worth following.

Big news.  “EXCLUSIVE: Thousands of Kurdish fighters launch ground offensive into Iran against regime, official says,” i24, 3-4-26.

“Day 5: Israel vows to eliminate Khamenei’s successor,” Jewish Insider, 3-4-26

“Qatar PM calls for immediate halt to Iranian attacks,” Iran International 3-4-26.  “Qatar’s prime minister has called for an immediate halt to Iranian attacks on countries in the region, accusing Tehran of striking civilian areas inside the Gulf state. In a statement posted on X, Qatar’s foreign ministry said Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani made the remarks during a phone call with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. According to the statement, Araghchi said Iranian missile strikes were aimed at US interests and did not target Qatar. Al Thani rejected the claim, saying the attacks hit civilian and residential areas, including near Hamad International Airport and industrial zones that house liquefied natural gas production facilities. The prime minister said such attacks violate Qatari sovereignty and warned that they “cannot go unanswered,” citing the country’s right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.”

Iran is using schools and clinics as military outposts.  (sounds like Hamas, right?  Hamas was only copying what Iran was already doing).  “Video: Iran’s armed forces based in a civilian sport center,” Iran International, 3-4-26.

“Larijani says Trump will pay a ‘heavy price’ for killing Khamenei’,” Iran International, 3-4-26.  Sounds like Larijani must be speaking from underground, as he is a target for not surrendering and continuing to direct affairs for the state (not the president).  “Killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei will carry a heavy price for Donald Trump, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani said in a message he posted on X.  “Mr. Trump, with Netanyahu’s clownish games you dragged the American nation into an unjust war with Iran,” Larijani wrote.  Larijani also claimed that more than 500 US troops had been killed in the conflict, a figure far higher than the US military says. The US military has reported six American service members killed so far.  “Now calculate whether, with more than 500 American troops killed in these past few days, it is still America First or Israel First?,” he said.  “The story is not over,” he added. “The martyrdom of Imam Khamenei will have a heavy price for you.””

“Security forces shoot at people chanting behind windows,” Iran International 3-4-26.  Larijani already knows it, but these orders to the military will be his downfall.

“Iran postpones Khamenei funeral as US-Israeli bombardment continues,” BBC, 3-4-26.

“Iran war: Trump says U.S. to offer insurance for Gulf shipping and escort tankers,” CNBC, 3-4-26.

Reality hurts Iran.  But what hurts Al Jazeera is the opportunity for an easy story, as it so simple to confirm what Iran claims.  Wonder why AJ won’t?  “IRGC says Iran in ‘complete control’ of Strait of Hormuz amid Trump threats,” Al Jazeera, 3-4-26.

“Hundreds of drones target Kuwait, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, UAE amid Iran war,” Al Jazeera, 3-4-26.

“From shadow to power: who is Mojtaba Khamenei?,” Iran International, 3-4-26.

“Iran’s Secret Outreach Highlights Trump’s Challenge,” NYT, 3-4-26.

“Israel says it knocked out Iran’s cyber warfare headquarters,” Politico, 3-4-26.

Don’t worry that it is one of “ours” that is reporting about the other side.  The Times is trusted enough or at the same sort of level by international readers to trust this story.  “Iranian TV and Social Media Project Defiant and Distorted View of the War,” NYT, 3-4-26.  “On Iran’s official television networks and through a network of affiliated or sympathetic social media accounts, the country is striving to present a resolute image despite thousands of strikes from Israel and the United States that have hammered its cities, military bases and political leadership. It is waging an information war parallel to the real-world fighting, blending fact and fiction, often using unproven claims and fake videos generated using artificial intelligence. In Tehran’s telling, Iranian missiles have ravaged Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities, its jets have decimated an American aircraft carrier, and hundreds of Americans have been killed at bases and embassies around the region. The messages convey resilience, presenting the country as not only fighting back but winning. … [O]ne senior official saying in a statement aired on state television that its “extensive and successful operation” against Israel and other countries had “left all military experts in awe.”  … PressTV, one of Iran’s state broadcasters that airs in English and French, posted a video on X that seemed generated by A.I., describing a high-rise building in Bahrain aflame after Iranian airstrikes. (The post was later removed.)”  When you look at the fairly high-quality image of the hotel, you can see why some people would be fooled.  But once you hear that PressTV is doing such (they’ve been telling mistruths for years), you should move away from them.  Many of us did years ago.

“We Are Finally Free From Khamenei’s Suffocating Gaze,” NYT, 3-4-26.  “In the middle of a summer night, plainclothes police officers and militiamen raided a dormitory at the University of Tehran. Students earlier that day protested the closure of a reformist newspaper, and for that they were punished. The militiamen broke into their rooms, set their beds and belongings on fire and threw several of the students out of windows. Four were killed, and hundreds were wounded or detained.”  It goes on, describing several events over the years involving the Leader’s framed picture on the wall.

“Israel Is Blowing Up Iran’s Police State to Clear the Way for a Revolt,” NYT, 3-4-26.  “Airstrikes have targeted organizations responsible for suppressing protests and cracking down on separatists.”

“The Iran war has been a stunning aerial success,” Economist, 3-4-26.

“US air defenses may not be able to intercept many of Iran’s one-way drones,” CNN, 3-4-26.

CBS is actually not one of the best regular sources of wide coverage in the Middle East, but it popped up and has a decently accurate set of stories today from which to start.  “Live Updates: U.S.-Israeli war with Iran spreads, as Iran’s neighbors warn strikes won’t “go unanswered,” CBS, 3-3-26.

“Britain, France, and Greece reinforce Cyprus amid Iranian threats,” i24, 3-3-26.  “Britain reportedly plans to send warship HMS Duncan to Cyprus to protect RAF Akrotiri from potential Iranian attacks.”

This blog has regularly called out enablers, Russia and China.  Now we notice what happens when the kitchen gets hot.  See “Why China Is Doing So Little to Help a Friend Under Fire,” WSJ, 3-3-26.  And see “Putin’s friendship has limits — as Iran just found out,” Politico, 2-28-26.  You have to hope that Brics and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization are seeing the writing on the wall.

I’ve noticed my seemingly regular criticism of the New York Times, while I hope readers see that it is one of many open sources on which I rely.  The NYT just gets a number of things wrong while also giving breadth of news that compliments much of the data I collect.  In this story they make Israel out to be the greedy land grabbing country that wants to bend the Middle East to its will.  That is an absolute wrong reading of the present and of history.  Maybe even anti-Semitic.  Instead, since 1979 Iran has been bent on surrounding and defeating Israel (while also opposing the U.S., Saudi Arabia, etc.) by the creation of Hezbollah, terrorism, opposition through international organizations, proxies, direction of Syria against Israel, hijackings, Munich (I’m not doing these in order, and they overlap anyway), assassinations worldwide, Argentina, up to the present support of the Hamas 2023 attack.  It is now Israel that is freeing itself of 45 years of oppression.  Isn’t that what we want?  Will the NYT support Syria and its unyoking from Iran?  Will the NYT support Lebanon and its attempts to rid itself of the Iran-controlling Hezbollah?  What is the purpose of the NYT one has to ask?  See “An Emboldened Israel Is Seizing Opportunities to Remake Region,” NYT, 3-3-26.

An aside.  Some have, with quantitative data in hand, including Freedom House, showed that authoritarianism is on the rise over the past 10 years, and that these dictators support each other, from China’s buying Iran oil, to Iran selling drones to Russia, to Venezuela supporting Iran and Cuba, etc.  Putting apart the threats against Greenland, the U.S. moves against Maduro and Khamenei are from a different playbook.  We have a different foreign policy going on here.  “The credibility of the anti-interventionist faction took another hit following Trump’s successful operation to capture Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro, which did not devolve into the sort of regime-change quagmire that some conservative restrainers feared.”  See “‘Pretty Bad for Vance’: The VP’s Silence on Iran Peeves Allies,” Politico, 3-3-26.

In case you don’t know of the MEK, around since 1979.  This is the other option besides Pahlavi.  “The Iranian exile group that played Washington for this moment,” Politico, 3-3-26.

“Why Europe’s leaders have struggled to speak as one on Iran,” BBC, 3-3-26.

“Missile shrapnel falls in central Israel, 12 wounded as Iran continues barrage,” JPost, 3-3-26.

Deceiving headline.  “Markets Fall and Oil Surges as U.S. Warns of Extended War” in NYT, 3-3-26.  But when you click on it you read “Live Updates: Global Markets Tumble After U.S. Warns War Could Last Weeks.”  That my friends is not an extended war.  Remember the 12 day hostilities in June 2025?  You can call it a war if you want, there was certainly force and violence.  And much of the anti-air and nuclear sites were targeted.  But we didn’t know how long it would take, nor how violent.  Open hostilities that last weeks are not long.  Look at the history of warfare.  Look at how the West has had to deal with Iran in the past.

Don’t be surprised.  Since assisting the people to step forward and not have the IRGC or the Regime trying to kill them, it is only natural that the U.S. and Israel (and the UK we can now add because these are defensive strikes!) would act to stop the Assembly of Experts (meeting in the city of Qom) from appointing a new Supreme Leader.  This is a legitimate target of war, not simply a religious body meeting for a religious purpose.  This model of government has already been tried and has been found wanting.  “IDF flattens building in Qom as Iranian leadership reportedly met to choose a Supreme Leader | LIVE BLOG,” i24, 3-3-26.

“Trump open to backing armed Iranian militia groups – WSJ,” Iran International, 3-3-26.  “President Donald Trump is open to supporting groups in Iran willing to take up arms to dislodge the regime, an idea that could turn Iranian factions into ground forces at least rhetorically backed by Washington, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials. The officials said Trump has spoken with Kurdish leaders and is engaging other local figures who could seek to exploit Tehran’s weakness, though no final decision has been made on whether the United States would provide arms, training or intelligence support.”

“Ex-CIA director says Iran erred by expanding attacks to Persian Gulf states,” Iran International, 3-3-26.

This is big news.  “CIA working to arm Kurdish forces to spark uprising in Iran, sources say,” CNN, 3-3-26.

“Iran Strikes U.S. Military Communication Infrastructure in Mideast,” NYT, 3-3-26.  From where did Iran get this intelligence?

“Qatar announces arrest of Iran’s IRGC sleeper cells,” Al Jazeera, 3-3-26.

“IAEA confirms buildings damaged at Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility,” Al Jazeera, 3-3-26.

“IDF eliminates top Iran Quds Force Lebanon commander in Tehran,” i24, 3-3-26.

“U.S. and Israel Striking Iran Security Agencies That Helped Crush Protests,” NYT, 3-3-26.

“Why China Is Doing So Little to Help a Friend Under Fire,” WSJ, 3-3-26.

The consequence of yesterday’s news prompted it to be the largest number of news items and comments I’ve put on this blog for any one day I believe over these past 8 years.  Here goes with more.  “Live Updates: Mideast Conflict Widens Across Multiple Fronts,” NYT, 3-2-26.  “Iran and allied militias, including Hezbollah, attacked Israel and U.S. targets in the Gulf in retaliation for Ayatollah Khamenei’s death. Israel struck in Lebanon as President Trump said that the U.S. assault on Iran would last “four or five weeks.”

Politico should ask if it wants op-eds like this one to speak for it, or if it will run another op-ed about the evidence of threat from Iran, let alone the reasons the U.S. acted within international law.  See “There Is No Legal Argument for Trump’s War With Iran,” Politico, 3-2-26.  Likewise see “Pentagon offers no evidence to support claim it attacked Iran in defense,” Politico, 3-2-26.  They could consider Iran’s refusal to give up its nuclear weapons program, that seems a threat enough.  Protecting the protestors, as Trump promised?  Refusal of Iran to back down its proxies?  Not disarming Hezbollah and Hamas?  How about the Houthis and the strait they threaten?  What about Iran’s navy in the Persian Gulf and Hormuz?  And don’t forget the Quds Force around the world.  Oh wait, the missiles used in the Middle East.  And the terrorism.  My fingers are getting tired typing.  This is similar to PM Starmer’s weak arguments—let them come at you again to justify another response.  Politico could wait for the testimony of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chair Gen. Dan Caine and CIA Director John Ratcliffe when they give an Iran briefing to House members on Tuesday.  Or Politico could read FDD’s Long War Journal.

An important reason Iran’s citizens don’t like the Regime, and its neighbors either.  Disregard for the common man.  “Military briefing: Iran’s new retaliation strategy,” Financial Times, 3-2-26.  “Islamic republic launches constant barrages at Israel while targeting civilian sites around the Gulf.”

“’Too risky’ for Iran to hit Turkey over US assets: analysts,” France24, 3-2-26.

“U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia Struck by Drones,” WSJ, 3-2-26.  But it was empty.

“Quds Force threatens Israel, US: ‘Gates of Hell will remain open’,” Israel Hayom, 3-2-26.