Sometimes force has to be a part of diplomacy, and here it is being used against Hezbollah in Lebanon and its master, Iran, at Hormuz.  But that force can be a good is not how the NYT will put it.  BTW, the public and Congress didn’t like Pres. Jefferson’s fight against the Barbary Pirates, either.  See “10-Day Cease-Fire Between Israel and Lebanon Goes Into Effect,” NYT, 4-16-26.  “The pause in the fighting between Israeli forces and Iranian-allied Hezbollah militants may help smooth the way to a peace deal between the U.S. and Iran.”

All vessels have been stopped.  Textbook operations.  Set up outside the strait, just like I and others have advised.  “Why a U.S. blockade on Iran seems to be working,” PBS, 4-16-26.  Note also that PBS was not in favor of a blockade.

Scrapping the bottom of the barrel, they are running out.  “Pete Hegseth says Iran is digging out missiles and launchers,” NBC, 4-16-26.

A great sign that the blockade strategy is working.  “Iran halts petrochemical exports until further notice,” Reuters, 4-16-26.

This is actually an interesting question, to ask the Pope if Iran can have nuclear weapons.  I hope he will say no, and that he will propose the best way to keep this from happening.  “WATCH: Trump says the pope has to understand that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” PBS, 4-16-26.

“Trump Says Iran Has Agreed to Turn Over Uranium,” 4-16-26.  We will be hearing more about this.