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.

It’s a new day for Iran.  March 1, with the so-called Supreme Leader announced yesterday as killed.  Ali Khamenei was the second leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and had dicatated for over 35 years after the first ten years of rule by the first Great Ayatollah, Ruhollah Khomeini.  Here is obituary, prepared over the past several months by the NYT.  “Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Hard-Line Cleric Who Made Iran a Regional Power, Is Dead at 86,” NYT, 3-1-26.  The article includes a quote by Vali Nasr at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, “It’s really under him that the Islamic Republic took form.  Khomeini led a revolution.  Khamenei led a state.”  And this is the point of this blog.  The NYT, probably without realizing, uses the word “revolution” in its article, and I say without realizing because they don’t really delve into how radical Iran was compared to its neighbors.  The post-1979 Iran has been so dangerous because it tied state ideology to violence and attempts to grow its revolution across the Middle East.  This blog will continue to watch and see if any reform is taken, anything to show that Iran can take its place among the nations of the world.

“Trump says talks easier after Khamenei, Iran vows ‘devastating’ response,” Iran International, 3-1-26.  For those predicting a wider war across the region, I respond show us the evidence.  How many missiles has Iran actually shot.  How many have made it through missile defenses?  Closing the Dubai airport and having some residential buildings hit is nothing compared to June 2025 and what would have been feared before.

“‘Freedom, freedom!’: Jubilant crowds across Iran celebrate killing of Khamenei,” Times of Israel, 3-1-26.  “Iranian state television announced a 40-day mourning period and seven public holidays.”  I wonder what the odds are now at Polymarket whether the 7 holidays will be observed.

Apparently Larijani is alive.  “Ali Larijani, once seen as a pragmatist, steps into void left by Khamenei’s death,” Times of Israel, 3-1-26.

It appears that the great threat to shipping that Iran made is not materializing.  Few ships hit, minor damage.  Other ships waiting to pass through Hormuz.  “Two ships hit near Strait of Hormuz as fears grow of oil price rises,” BBC, 3-1-26.

“Nine dead in missile attack on Israel as Iran strikes region,” BBC, 3-1-26.  Low numbers of successful missiles and casualties across the Middle East.  Iran’s counterattack is falling flat so far.  “Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait – all home to US military bases – said they had intercepted missiles fired towards them, but falling debris appeared to have caused widespread damage.”

“The months of planning behind US-Israeli mission to target Iran’s supreme leader,” BBC, 3-1-26.  Pres. Pezeshkian is apparently alive.  “Three senior Iranian defence officials have been confirmed dead by Iran, including Defence Council secretary Ali Shamkhani, Defence Minister Brig Gen Aziz Nasirzadeh and IRGC commander Gen Mohammad Pakpour.”  Shamkhani was a real danger, and is a great loss to the Regime.

How to Make Friends and Influence People–Dale Carnegie would not be impressed by use of the Shahed-136 against civilians.  “Iran Fires Cheap Drones Into Arab Countries, Wreaking Havoc,” NYT, 3-1-26.

The best article yet detailing how the Leader was deposed.  “The C.I.A. Helped Pinpoint a Gathering of Iranian Leaders. Then Israel Struck.,” NYT, 3-1-26.

These types of statements are endangering the life of the country’s president.  “Iranian president appears on state TV, says country is ‘crushing enemy’s bases’,” BBC, 3-1-26.  Pezeshkian is in a three-person interim committee, with Mohseni Ejehei, head of the judiciary, and Ayatollah Ali Reza Arafi.  Also, the FM says a “new supreme leader may be selected in a day or two.”  Will the Assembly of Experts actually convene?

“Iran operations ‘ahead of schedule’, says Trump as Tehran hits back across region,” BBC, 3-1-26.

“Three US service members killed – Centcom,” BBC, 3-1-26.  We don’t know where or who yet.

The last time this happened, peaceful protesters were slaughtered.  Those celebrating the Ayatollah’s death should stay off the streets so the Regime can’t take revenge against them for the attacks by the U.S. and Israel.  The new three person council may have ordered more shootings.  They also don’t want regime change.  “Internet access remains severely restricted in Iran,” BBC Persian, 3-1-26.  “Data from Kentik, a company that monitors global internet traffic, indicates a sharp drop in connectivity across Iran following the attacks. The firm estimates that roughly 99% of the country’s access to the global internet has been cut. This is reflected on social media, where only a limited number of accounts – mostly belonging to Iranian officials or other trusted individuals – appear to remain active.”

Finally.  The newspaper admits “[a] badly weakened Iran will no longer intimidate or threaten its neighbors in the same way. The regional impact could be comparable to the collapse of the Soviet Union.”  See “Iran’s Regime May Survive, but the Middle East Will Be Changed,” NYT, 3-1-26.  And then “Iran’s decline began two years ago, with Israel’s tough and sustained response to an invasion by Hamas from Gaza.”  There is a new wind in the Middle East.

Yep, my thoughts about predictions markets were accurate.  Somebody is making a killing.  See “Bets on Fate of Iran’s Khamenei Spark Uproar at Leading Prediction Markets,” WSJ, 3-1-26.

Worth putting all this—I’ve predicted the IRGC would create a military narco-state and use Shia clerics as symbols of authority.  “Iran’s Guards push to name next leader outside legal procedures,” Iran International, 3-1-26.  “The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is insisting on the swift appointment of the next leader of the Islamic Republic after Ali Khamenei’s death, sources with knowledge of the matter told Iran International. According to the sources speaking on condition of anonymity, the remaining IRGC command structure is seeking to finalize the decision within the coming hours, specifically by dawn on Sunday, March 1. The sources said with airstrikes ongoing, it is not feasible to convene a session of the Assembly of Experts, the constitutional body responsible for selecting the Supreme Leader. As a result, the IRGC is pushing for the appointment of the next leader to take place outside the legally prescribed procedures. Reports received by Iran International also indicate that following the killing of Khamenei in joint US-Israeli strikes, disarray and confusion have intensified within the Islamic Republic’s security and military structures. Sources say parts of the chain of command have been disrupted, with the transmission of orders and operational coordination facing difficulties. This could further complicate field decision-making and crisis management in the hours and days ahead.”

“Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Iran’s ex-president who said ‘Israel must be wiped off the map,’ killed in Israeli airstrikes,” NYPost, 3-1-26.  There are many reasons Ahmadinejad would have been on a target list, even if he was not favored currently by the (former) Leader.  He represents much of what was bad about the Regime including Mahdi worship and massive anti-Semitism.  “Ahmadinejad became especially notorious in the West for his rhetoric toward Israel and his comments about the Holocaust.”  He was so controversial (including that the Second Coming and the Mahdi were about to occur) that the Leader side-lined his power when he was president.  It’s pretty bad when you make Ali Khamenei look moderate.

“Exiled Shah Reza Pahlavi: “I Am Leading This Transition,” “The Military Will Side With Us, And We Have A Plan,” RealClearPolitics, 3-1-26.  Key quotes.  “REZA PAHLAVI — FORMER CROWN PRINCE OF IRAN: Well, Maria, to be realistic, from the time that we start until the day we can have the final referendum, I anticipate a period that should not be longer than a couple of years at most. What’s critical is the first 100 days — to immediately stabilize the country and the Iranian economic situation, and to ensure that the apparatus of government remains as intact as possible so the functioning of the country continues to be in place while we bring all the components together. At the very end, the people will have a choice, and various plans will be proposed in the Constitutional Assembly, which is the entity that will, of course, debate all these issues.”

A tortured understanding of international law by UK PM Starmer.  He seems to be ignoring 45+ years and current threats, looking at this strictly as “who shoots first on a particular day” equals what is offensive/illegal IL, and a similar definition for self-defense.  Well, he has missed opportunity to help lead in the world in a better direction, and keeps himself (along with France and Germany) in a Maginot Line mindset.  At least the U.S. will now have access to Fairford and Diego Garcia.

“Starmer says he will give US permission to use UK bases for Iran missions,” Politico, 3-1-26.  So he waited until the UK was attacked by an Iranian drone at its Cypress air base.  That’s not leadership when a long-term threat continues.  Wait until the next hit!  Wait until the next British tourist hostage is taken!

“Western officials reportedly estimate Iran to run out of ballistic missiles in days | LIVE BLOG,” i24, 3-1-26.

The story is so surprising to some (that Israel would join in from the first), and the media need to move quickly to understand what is happening, that even I24 gets the headline wrong.  “Israel, U.S. launch preemptive military operation against Israel, emergency situation declared in Israel | LIVE BLOG,” I24, 2-28-26.

“US, Israel attack Iran live: Trump announces ‘major combat operations’,” Al Jazeera, 2-28-26.

“US UN Ambassador Tells Off Iran To His Face at Tense UN Meeting,” New York Post, 2-28-26.  Statement (video in the UNSC) by the U.S. at the United Nations of its rationale based on the actions of Iran, including the global security declaration as long as 20 years ago that Iran give up its enrichment activities.  Here in the past three weeks, Iran continues to refuse to give up its program.  The Ayatollah has lost his chance.

A word about the NYT and those who don’t understand the Regime.  See “Why Have You Started This War, Mr. President?,” NYT, 2-28-26.  The premise is flawed.  The U.S. didn’t start this war, it is decades and years and issues and threats and deaths long.  Iran started it with the founding mantra “Death to America.”  It is how the country is founded and run.  There is also Death to Israel and Death to Saudi Arabia.  They are Little Satans.  This is not what a normal country does and is why Henry Kissinger’s statement about the ISI started this blog.  All American presidents since Jimmy Carter have had to deal with this Shia Crescent Mahdi Death Cult.  All regional presidents and monarchs and countries of the Middle East but really around the world because of the long arm of Iran and its Quds Force and IRGC have had to deal with the two Supreme Leaders and their twisted view of Islam.  There have been proxies, the long war with Iraq, hostages, missile strikes, the largest state-sponsor of terror, the nuclear weapons program, the list of negatives is so long.  And the list of brutality and human rights denials and corruption against common Iranians are too numerous to count.  Well, more than 30,000 is the latest number to count, those killed in the Jan. 8-9 military-grade weapons murders of their countrymen and women.  Why doesn’t the NYT ask which countries or international organizations are holding Iran to account for that most recent event, which is the largest government mass killing at one time of a country’s people?

Israel will forever have the credit for removing this Haman.  “Israel kills Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei in Saturday strikes | LIVE BLOG,” I24, 2-28-26.  Khamenei will never order another person dead.  Or an entire nation.  I wonder if Quds Day is no officially over?  I wonder if the Doomsday clock in Tehran will ever be reconstituted?  I wonder if the new head of government in Iran will make predictions of how long will Israel will exist?

“Israel, US timed Iran strikes to Khamenei meeting with inner circle – report,” I24, 2-28-26.  “Israeli officials said Khamenei was killed along with key lieutenants, including Ali Shamkhani, the powerful former secretary of Iran’s National Security Council, and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Mohammad Pakpour. Two Iranian sources told Reuters that Khamenei met on Saturday with Shamkhani and Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani at a secure location shortly before the strikes began. A senior Israeli official told Reuters that Khamenei’s body had been found.”  [was Larijani killed?]  Two US sources and a US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said confirmation that Khamenei was meeting his top aides triggered the joint Israeli-US operation. The US official said the attack needed to hit Khamenei first to maintain the element of surprise, suggesting concerns that the Iranian leader would go into hiding if he had advance warning. One US source said Khamenei had originally been expected to hold the meeting on Saturday evening in Tehran, but Israeli intelligence detected a meeting on Saturday morning, and the strikes were moved forward.  The precise location of the meeting was not immediately clear, the sources said. However, Khamenei’s high‑security compound in Tehran was struck at the beginning of the operation, and satellite imagery reviewed by Reuters confirmed that the site was destroyed. … After Khamenei’s death, Head of Iran’s National Security Council said a temporary Leadership Council will be formed today. According to a report by Iran International, Iran’s president, judiciary chief, Guardian Council jurist will assume the supreme leader’s duties.  The impact of Khamenei’s death on Iran’s internal power structure and regional policy remains uncertain. In a pre‑attack assessment, the US Central Intelligence Agency concluded that he could be replaced by hardliners from within the IRGC [this is what I think, that Iran becomes a military dictatorship or junta for the moment], according to two sources briefed on the intelligence. Officials and analysts warn that the killing of Iran’s supreme leader, combined with ongoing military exchanges, could further destabilize the region and complicate efforts to contain wider escalation.”

“Live Updates: U.S. and Israel Strike Iran as Trump Calls for Overthrow of Government,” NYT, 2-28-26.  First, the Supreme Leader is now a marked man the rest of his life, much more so than by his own persons.  I don’t know if he will ever go outside again.  Another comment–Classless by the NYT.  It complains that “This is the second time President Trump has attacked Iran during ongoing negotiations on its nuclear program.  Already, Iranian officials were doubtful they could trust Trump to negotiate seriously or if he intended to reach a lasting agreement. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, has an abiding mistrust of the United States, which was reinforced in 2018 when Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal and reimposed harsh economic sanctions on Iran.”  This is distorting history and reality.  We have been negotiating for years.  And the NYT ignores the many reports in the last few days that Iran was not negotiating in good faith, was not offering much, and certainly wasn’t giving up its nuclear program.  Why should anyone continue so-called negotiating or diplomacy that is not going anywhere?  Here’s another point–“In a letter to the U.N. Security Council, Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, asked for the council to intervene and said Israel and the United States had violated international law in attacking Iran. “The United States and the Israeli regime shall bear full and direct responsibility for all ensuing consequences, including any escalation arising from their unlawful actions,” Mr. Araghchi said in the letter. “All bases, facilities and assets of the hostile forces in the region shall be regarded as legitimate military objectives within the framework of Iran’s lawful exercise of self-defense.”  Good luck on whether the world defends this interpretation of IL.  As an example of my point, “Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Union’s executive arm, announced on social media that she would convene a special security update meeting on Monday on the situation in Iran. She said that it is “of the utmost importance that there is no further escalation through Iran’s unjustified attacks on partners in the region.”  And “Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry said that there had been “blatant and cowardly Iranian attacks” on its capital Riyadh and in the country’s oil-rich eastern province. The statement said the attacks came even after Saudi Arabia had said it would not allow its airspace or territory to be used to target Iran.”  Also, the NYT is reporting that “Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian foreign minister, said there were currently no backchannel negotiations taking place in an effort to end the war with the United States and Israel. “If the Americans want to talk to us, they know how they can contact me,” Araghchi said in an interview on NBC News.”  Note that Araghchi didn’t say he was trying to contact the U.S. or Israel.  The next comment I have is what is important now is will the Iranian people step up, and will the Army and Basij step down.  It will be interesting to learn more about the contacts between Western intelligence and freedom advocates.  Here’s another point—only Iran brings its rivals together so well.  “Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the president of the United Arab Emirates, spoke with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia by phone on Saturday, according to U.A.E. state media, after the Emirates came under retaliatory Iranian strikes. Prince Mohammed told the Emirati leader that Saudi Arabia would be “placing all its capabilities at its disposal,” to support the Emirates. Relations between the two Gulf neighbors have been strained in recent months.  Finally, “Iran’s semiofficial news agency Fars reported that Iranian missile attacks had targeted U.S. military facilities including the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates and the U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain.”  Apparently, though, little damage as the missiles are being shot out of the sky.

Where is Esmail Qaani, leader of the Quds Force?  I guess he survived June 25, and now March 26.  But why no public appearances if he is alive?  Not even a mention of him in the Regime news sources.  “Diagramming the Blows to Iran’s Leadership,” NYT, 2-28-26.

This is from the man who hardly ever criticizes the largest state-sponsor of terror.  “UN chief condemns U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran during emergency Security Council meeting,” PBS, 2-28-26.

“What It Will Take to Change the Regime in Iran,” Foreign Affairs, 2-27-26.  “The U.S. Military Must Go Big—and Then Let Iranians Do the Rest.”  Because the Regime will never reform nor change on its own.

“Iran Update, February 27, 2026,” Institute for the Study of War, 2-27-26.

“Iran Update, February 27, 2026,” Critical Threats, 2-27-26.  Another good regular overview, from where the university protests are occurring, to the continuing fact that the IAEA can’t confirm whether Iran has suspended all enrichment-related activities.

“U.S. authorizes nonessential staff, family members to leave Israel ‘while commercial flight are available’ | LIVE BLOG,” i24, 2-27-26.