If there is any slightly good news, but also proof that Iran can act rationally, the five Iranians who released were nothing like the recent swap with Russia involving Viktor Bout.  These five men were for the most part involved with unlawful exporting.  “Who is being freed in the Iran prisoner swap?,” BBC, 9-19-23.

Is there a country in the world that agrees with Raisi?  “Iran’s President denies sending drones and other weapons to Russia, decries U.S. meddling,” The Hindu, 9-19-23.

“Russia Defense Chief Shoigu Makes Iran Visit,” The Moscow Times, 9-19-23.

Raisi threatens countries who establish relations with Israel.  Other countries shouldn’t put up with these threats of terrorism and internal political pressure.  “Iran’s president warns against normalization with Israel,” Times of Israel, 9-19-23.

“Daughter of Abandoned Hostage Says Prisoner Deal Was Timed for Iran President’s ‘Horrific’ NYC Trip,” National Review, 9-19-23.

“Iran Update,” Institute for the Study of War, 10-19-23.  See the Iran Update which aims to inform national security policy by providing timely, relevant, and independent open-source analysis of developments pertaining to Iran and its Axis of Resistance.  This update covers political, military, and economic events and trends that affect the stability and decision-making of the Iranian regime.  It also provides insights into Iranian and Iranian-sponsored activities abroad that undermine regional stability and threaten US forces and interests.  The Critical Threats Project at the American Enterprise Institute with support from the Institute for the Study of War provides these updates Monday through Friday.