“Israel Eliminates Ali Larijani, Key Architect Behind Iranian Protest Massacres,” FDD, 3-17-26.

“Larijani’s death is more significant than that of supreme leader,” Telegraph, 3-17-26.

“Exclusive:  Iran’s New Supreme Leader rejects de-escalation proposals conveyed by intermediaries, Iran official says,” Reuters, 3-17-26.  Reuters does not attempt to confirm if the new Leader is injured or alive, it just passes through information from the Regime.  That is not reporting, that is almost just being a mouthpiece.  There is too much at stake to allow others to pretend to be in charge of the country.

“Israel targets Iranian intelligence minister overnight | LIVE BLOG,” i24, 3-17-26.

And Nowruz is coming up, a holiday the Regime has always had difficulty snuffing out or transforming to Shia beliefs and government control.  “’Celebrate, we are watching from the sky:’ Netanyahu aims to protect Iranians on Persian New Year,” i24, 3-17-26.

“300 IRGC Basij field agents killed in overnight strikes,” Iran International, 3-17-26.

“Son of FBI agent missing in Iran says US strikes are step toward justice,” Iran International, 3-17-26.  “Washington later concluded that Levinson likely died in Iranian custody, though his remains were never recovered. In 2020, the US Treasury Department sanctioned Iranian officials Mohammad Baseri and Ahmad Khazai for their roles in his disappearance.  Baseri’s name resurfaced this week when Iranian state media confirmed he was killed in the joint US‑Israeli airstrikes on Tehran that also hit Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) sites and intelligence facilities. Learning of Baseri’s death, Levinson said, felt [his son] like a long‑overdue turning point, matched in significance only by the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on first day of war. “Khamenei had the power to free my dad at any point and chose not to. He knew what was happening and did nothing, so for our family, it’s been an emotional moment — but not one of grief.” His father, he said, “was a patriotic American who always wanted to make sure justice was served — not just in the United States, but around the world.” The recent strikes, he believes, “may finally hold some of those responsible accountable.” Levinson has spent nearly twenty years seeking answers and helping other families do the same. He was instrumental in advancing the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage‑Taking Accountability Act, which strengthened US tools for responding to hostage situations abroad. From those efforts, he’s come to see patterns in how authoritarian states operate — and how they collapse. “There are people who know exactly what happened to my dad,” he said. As pressure mounts on the regime, “maybe some will defect or reveal the truth. … “There’s still a 25 multimillion‑dollar US reward for information about his case.” The strikes, he said, could finally create the conditions where long‑hidden information emerges. Although the family continues to grieve, Levinson said they also feel a renewed sense of purpose. “Justice is coming,” he said. “We’re not going to forget. Those involved still have the chance to do the right thing.” … “Now, with the regime shaken and the world watching, maybe it’s finally time for justice — and for freedom for the Iranian people.””

I am sorry that Joe Kent lost his wife in Syria.  He claims in his resignation letter that the Iraq War was “manufactured” by Israel, and that the current conflict in Iran (but not the June 2025 fighting?) was also manipulated by Israel.  I don’t have enough information from open sources nor over time to give more insight, but I will note that I’m not seeing much commentary or information in the press about Kent’s personal loss and Israel’s actions and how they are tied together.  Nor have I ever heard that Israel was responsible for Pres. Bush’s decision in 2003 in Iraq.  See “What we know about Joe Kent – the top US counterterrorism official who has resigned over Trump’s Iran war,” Sky News, 3-17-26.  For example, “The First Big Administration Defection Over Iran,” Atlantic, 3-17-26.  I’ve circled back to this post on 3-19 to include the only relevant piece I’ve seen so far, and it does not include any information regarding Kent’s claim regarding Israel.

“Gulf States Want the U.S. to Cripple Iran’s Regime Before Ending the War,” WSJ, 3-17-26.  In short, they want the head to be cut off the snake.  That is a quote that goes back to 2010 when King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia communicated this to the U.S. about Iran.

Significant in that Mossad assets not the key factor, but everyday people who want the Regime to fall.  “Israeli official says tip from Tehran residents helped enable Larijani strike,” Iran International, 3-17-26.

“Iran Launches Missile Attack on Tel Aviv in Retaliation for Latest Killings,” NYT, 3-17-26.  “Iranian state media confirmed the killings of Ali Larijani, who had served as Iran’s de facto leader.”

After Iran produced so many drones targeting Ukraine, now Ukraine is helping in the Middle East against Iran.  “Ukraine says has deployed 200 air defense experts to Mideast amid Iran war,” Iran International, 3-17-26.

“’Fall of Iranian regime real possibility,’ assessment in Israel and US ‘strengthening’,” i24, 3-17-26.

“Day 17 of Middle East conflict — Trump criticizes nations not committing to assist with Hormuz strait crisis,” CNN, 3-17-26.

“Gulf States Want the U.S. to Cripple Iran’s Regime Before Ending the War,” WSJ, 3-17-26.

“Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei survived Israeli-US strike by minutes – report,” I24, 3-16-26.  “The report says the new Iranian leader stepped outside moments before the attack that struck the supreme leader’s compound in Tehran. … This is “according to leaked audio obtained by The Telegraph. The recording reportedly captures remarks by Mazaher Hosseini, head of protocol for the office of former Iranian leader Ali Khamenei. Hosseini addressed senior clerics and commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps during a meeting on March 12 in Tehran’s Qolhak neighborhood. The audio, which the newspaper said it independently verified.”

Romania is near the limit of Iran’s missile range.  Iran would also have to shoot across Turkey, raising NATO alarms and possible shootdown from Patriot batteries near Incirlik AFB.  And Romania is in NATO, triggering a decision by NATO whether to fire back at Iran.  “Iran warns Romania against allowing US to use bases for operations,” Iran International, 3-16-26.

Checkpoints, apartment searches, menacing recorded phone calls.  “Iran taking steps to prevent anti-establishment protests, Tehran residents tell BBC,” BBC, 3-16-26.

“UN report says Iran crushed protests with force, arrests and digital curbs,” Iran International, 3-16-26.

“Iran hits key UAE oil port and Dubai airport,” BBC, 3-16-26.  “Iran has launched over 1,900 missiles and drones at the UAE.

“Saudi Arabia Says It Intercepted Nearly 100 Drones in 24 Hours,” WSJ, 3-16-26.  “Saudi Arabia’s forces have intercepted 98 drones in the last 24 hours, the largest single-day wave of attacks since the U.S.-led war on Iran began. Most of the attacks were concentrated in the eastern region where the majority of the kingdom’s oil is produced, according to statements by the defense ministry. Other drones were intercepted over the capital of Riyadh.”

“Arab states urge US not to stop short in war on Iran,” Iran International, 3-16-26.

“Iran’s Northern Neighbors Are Facing Fallout From the War, Too,” Carnegie, 3-16-26.

“Iran has not asked for ceasefire and sees no reason for talks with US, Iranian minister says,” BBC, 3-15-26.

“Trump’s Call for Countries to Help Secure Strait Yields No Immediate Promises,” WSJ, 3-15-26.  We need some George Washingtons, just like the protesters do also.

“Israel Says Michigan Synagogue Attacker’s Brother Was a Hezbollah Commander,” NYT, 3-15-26.

“12 arrested at Al-Quds Day rally, counterprotest in London, say police,” BBC, 3-15-26.

“Cheap drones transform global battlefield,” Axios, 3-15-26.

“Iran says Russia and China providing ‘military cooperation’,” Politico, 3-15-26.

“Iran war: What is happening on day 15 of US-Israel attacks?,” Al Jazeera, 3-14-26.

The threats to their family, etc. are real.  “Iran pressuring women footballers who defected in Australia to return,” Iran International, 3-14-26.

“Iranians are ‘hesitant’ to rise up against regime, an Israeli official tells i24NEWS,” i24-3-14-26.  “Sources say it is no coincidence that every statement by Netanyahu and Katz includes a call for the Iranian people to prepare to act and emphasizes their role in determining the regime’s fate.”

“Five US refuelling planes struck by Iran strikes at Saudi Arabia’s Prince Sultan Air Base:  Report,” Times of India, 3-14-26.  The WSJ carried the story I believe first, and said four had minor damage and one would need repairs.  We will see if The Statesman retracts or corrects their story.  See “Iran strikes widen: 5 US refuelling planes destroyed in Saudi Arabia, US embassy radar hit in Iraq,” Statesman, 3-14-26.  I don’t usually display news from The Statesman, this factually incorrect headline is one reason why.

“Day 15 of Middle East conflict — Trump urges countries to send warships to help secure Strait of Hormuz,” CNN, 3-14-26.

“U.S. Tells Citizens to Leave Iraq After Second Attack on Embassy,” NYT, 3-14-26.

“6 killed in U.S. refueling plane crash; Iran’s new supreme leader ‘likely disfigured,’ Hegseth says,” NBC, 3-14-26.

Perhaps the most bizarre story in the eight years I’ve been doing this blog.  The media and other countries need to be running with this story, it shows how radical and unnatural the Regime is.  And how much it dissembles.  “Reports: Iran’s new supreme leader is in a coma after Israeli airstrike,” Times of Israel, 3-13-26.  “Sources say the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is reportedly unaware of the ongoing war and his own appointment.”  This story does beg one important question—if MK is so injured, why did the Assembly of Experts vote him in?  Were they told of his disability?  Did they actually select him, or was this really the three-headed council’s decision?  With the input of the IRGC?  Fascinating.

“Ankara stresses Turkish ownership of key air base amid missile scare and Iran tensions,” Nordic Monitor, 3-13-26.

“BREAKING: US refuelling plane goes down over Iraq,” Sky News, 3-13-26.  Probably a tragic accident.

“Day 13 of Middle East conflict — global economy disruptions, Iranian attacks spread to sea,” CNN, 3-13-26.

“Counter Extremism Project Condemns Antisemitic Islamic Republic of Iran Regime-inspired Al-Quds Day Marches Around the World, Calls to Ban Marches and Demonstrations Outright,” Counter Extremism Project, 3-13-26.  Remember that Quds Day at its inception and even its claims now has nothing to do with Palestinians.  It is for the slaughter of all Israelis (even those not Jews).  London and other cities should ban this annual call to genocide.

Perhaps the Regime thinks that if Israel will hit the protesters in the streets, it won’t have to.  “Iran raises ‘human shield’ fears by rallying supporters to the streets,” Iran International, 3-13-26.

And you ask why hasn’t the Lebanese government disarmed Hezbollah yet?  Here’s an additional reason.  “Iran pays Lebanon parliament speaker $500,000 a month to maintain influence,” Iran International, 3-13-26.  “Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri receives more than $500,000 per month from the Islamic Republic in order to support Tehran’s interests and those of its allied group Hezbollah in Lebanon, informed sources told Iran International. Officials in Tehran say the sums are meant to “buy” unity among Lebanon’s Shiite leadership to ensure that they “act in accordance with Iran’s interests, not Lebanon’s interests.”  I would imagine he uses that money to buy other persons’ loyalty also. … The sources said Berri has been unwilling to support efforts by the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah because, in exchange for receiving large sums from Tehran, he must “advance measures in the Lebanese parliament that align with Tehran’s interests.”  …  In recent months, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam have tried to pressure Hezbollah to disarm in order to reduce tensions with Israel and the international community.”

Sounds like the U.S. needs to file these cases before the same court.  This also begs the question about seizing the Iranian ships leaving Hormuz.  “The Oil Tankers Trump Seized Are Costing the U.S. Millions of Dollars,” NYT, 3-13-26.

To possibly seize Kharg Island.  “More Marines and Warships Being Sent to Middle East, U.S. Officials Say,” NYT, 3-13-26.

Unless the Crown Prince and the NCRI and others hold outside conferences, along with Kurds and Azeris, there will not be the movement toward a new Iran.  They have the opportunity but have to be willing to do what it takes to win independence.  The Regime knows this too, they can see like the rest of us.  The protesters have to be willing to protest, to organize, to rally.  They have to distinguish themselves from Venezuela.  So, two weeks in, this is an important news story.  See “Despite intense US–Israel strikes, Iran’s regime shows no signs of falling – report,” i24, 3-12-26.  “American intelligence says Iran’s leadership remains intact and is not at immediate risk of collapse despite nearly two weeks of US-Israeli strikes, according to sources cited by Reuters. … The resilience of the regime could complicate efforts to reach a diplomatic or military conclusion to the conflict. Officials in Israel have reportedly acknowledged in closed discussions that the ongoing conflict does not guarantee the collapse of Iran’s religious leadership. A senior Israeli official told Reuters that while the campaign has weakened key elements of Iran’s military and political apparatus, there is no certainty it will lead to regime change.”

Well argued by Yaroslav Trofimov.  Iran not deterred, Hormuz becomes biggest hostage in the world, Gulf allies endangered, U.S. standing damaged, uranium stockpile remains, Russia oil richer, China stronger and threatens its neighbors.  “Ending Iran War Quickly Carries Big Risks for the U.S. and Allies,” WSJ, 3-12-26.

“Saudi Arabia intercepts 18 drones targeting country’s eastern region,” AA, 3-12-26.

Both of these from Iran International, 3-12-26.  “Khamenei Jr calls for continued Hormuz pressure as shipping crisis deepens,” and “No appearance, no voice: Iran’s new leader issues first message in writing.”  Two weeks in, and his only appearance is a placard.

“Israel is relying on information from Iranians on the ground for strike targets – report,” i24, 3-12-26.  “Security official says tips from civilians helped guide drone strike on Basij checkpoints in Tehran.”  A sign.

“16 and Counting: Oil and Cargo Ships Are Growing Targets in War With Iran,” NYT, 3-12-26.

“U.N. Security Council Condemns Iran’s Retaliatory Strikes in the Middle East,” NYT, 3-12-26.  “The United Nations Security Council on Wednesday decisively adopted a Bahraini-led resolution condemning Iran’s regional attacks and rejected a Russian proposal seeking an end to the conflict in the Mideast. … Thirteen out of the 15 member countries of the Security Council, including the United States, Britain and France, supported Bahrain’s resolution, proposed on behalf of six Gulf nations and Jordan. China and Russia abstained.”

“The two oil pipelines helping Saudi Arabia and UAE bypass the Strait of Hormuz,” CNBC, 3-12-26.

“Tracking the wave of ship attacks that has choked off Strait of Hormuz,” BBC, 3-12-26.

“Iran’s new supreme leader vows continued retaliation across Gulf and oil routes,” PBS, 3-12-26.  PBS needs to explore whether Mojtaba Khamenei is alive if they are going to run statements from him such as “You can see for yourself, everything is damaged. The bathroom wall has fallen apart, the ceiling, the cabinets as well. Thank God we are safe ourselves.”  But he hasn’t made any statement about his family being killed.

“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.