“Hamas Took More Than 200 Hostages From Israel. Here’s What We Know,” WSJ, 11-17-23.  What this story doesn’t say is that Hamas’ list of hostages is almost certainly held by Iran, now for several weeks.  Hamas’ negotiations are also almost likely being run through Iran’s approvals.  A sign of this is Iran’s active involvement in the Thai hostages (reported on a recent day on this blog).

It is not surprising that a revolutionary regime would not fully understand what a normal country is like.  “Hamas and Iran confused Israel’s democracy for dysfunction,” The Hill, 11-17-23.

“Iran’s Quds Force Commander Vows Support For Hamas,” Iran International, 11-17-23.

The A.P. doesn’t make the obvious point—the U.S. is not deterring Iran, because Iran continues the attacks.  “How the US strikes a delicate balance in responding to attacks on its forces by Iran-backed militias,” AP, 11-17-23.

You wouldn’t believe it unless they hadn’t said it.  ““Our plan in the future is to raise the proud flag of Iran in Antarctica,” Iran’s Navy Chief Shahram Irani said.  When asked if that meant establishing a permanent base, he replied, “God willing.”  See “Iran Has an Eye for Antarctica,” Dialogo Americas, 11-17-23.

Another Iran-sponsored terror group.  Instead of decreasing support for violence, the Regime is increasing.  “Terrorist Designations of Iran-aligned Militia Groups,” U.S. Department of State Press Statement, 11-17-23.

“The US is finally hitting back at Iran’s murderous proxies,” The Hill, 11-17-23.  Still, only four retaliatory strikes, against almost 70 attempts on our people.

Paying blackmails does not stop hostage taking.  “Belgium Dropped Qatar Arrest Warrant For Help Freeing Iran Hostage: Source,” AFP, 11-17-23.

The Regime, as explained in this interesting article on Khamenei’s wife’s (Jamileh Alam al-Hoda) position, holds itself out and the Supreme Leader as the supreme country of the world.  Others may have presidents and prime ministers and totalitarian leaders, but only one country—the Islamic Republic of Iran—has a Supreme Leader, and who subject only to Allah.  “Khamenei’s political position is unparalleled among all government systems. … [and Khamenei] has no counterpart in the world. The unlimited powers accumulated in the hands of Khamenei explains why refrains from calling herself the first lady.”  See “The Reasons Why Iran Has No “First Lady,” Iran Wire, 11-17-23.