“Iran-Allied Syria on the Verge of Collapse or Defection,” Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, 12-3-24.

“US Deepens Sanctions on Iran’s ‘shadow’ Tankers,” Marine Link, 12-3-24.

“Who are Iran Quds Force officers deployed to Syria amid rebel offensive?,” Al Monitor, 12-3-24.

Hezbollah either refuses to participate, or Iran only willing to use Iraqi proxies.  Either way, bad news for Assad.  “Iraqi fighters head to Syria to battle rebels but Lebanon’s Hezbollah stays out, sources say,” Al Monitor, 12-3-24.

“Israel Fears Rebels, Iranian Militias Will Use Syria War to Get Assad’s Chemical Weapons,” Haaretz, 12-3-24.  Iran has allowed these to never be completely destroyed.

But will they?  “Iran says ready to deploy forces to Syria,” Iran International, 12-3-24.

This article is a reminder that deterrence is important.  When Pres. Obama agreed to not strike Syria because Russia promised to collect all of Syria’s chemical weapons, what did the U.S. do when Russia didn’t follow through?  “Israel’s chemical weapons stockpile is a global threat, Iran warns,” MROnline, 12-3-24.

“2024: The year of setbacks for Iran and its axis,” MEMO, 12-3-24.

Things may be falling apart.  “Iran expresses Syria frustration to Turkey in a tense visit,” MEE, 12-3-24.

Mismanagement and blame continue on for years.  “Iranian president sounds alarm on depleted foreign reserves,” Iran Internationa, 12-3-24.

“Pro-Iranian militias enter Syria from Iraq to aid beleaguered Syrian army,” Reuters, 12-2-24.  Several thousand will be called from Hashd al Shaabi, Katiab Hezbollah, and Fatemiyon.

The propaganda war.  “Iran Challenges Israel’s Messages of Victory over Hizbullah,” Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, 12-2-24.

Quote of the Day (how do you oppose yourself?) from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.  “[The] spread of insecurity and terrorism in the region is not in the interest of any country, emphasizing that all countries in the region must contribute to combating this ominous phenomenon.”  See “Iran reaches out to Qatar, Turkey amid Syria fighting – analysis,” JPost, 12-2-24.

“Russia and Iran Pledge Support for Syria’s al-Assad Against Advancing Rebels,” NYT, 12-2-24.

“US, UAE discussed lifting Assad sanctions to isolate Iran,” MEMO, 12-2-24.

The ISI seems incapable of reversal.  “Details of Iran’s new hijab law raise widespread concerns,” Iran International, 12-2-24.

“How Iran Sees the Path to Peace:  The Islamic Republic Is Open to Negotiations—Including With America,” Foreign Affairs, 12-2-24, by former Iran Ambassador to the UN Mohammad Javad Zarif.  Be very wary.  One thing he regularly speaks in English comments that are not expressed the same by Zarif in Farsi.  But to the point of this article and its title—open to negotiations?  How many times have they said that and followed through?  Zarif doesn’t mention support for Hezbollah and Nasrallah in the article, the proxies, terrorism, anti-Semitism, or ballistic missile attacks, or the Shia Crescent.  No.  In short, the most important thing to realize about this article (read it again) is that Kissinger was right—Iran must decide if it will be a normal country or a radical regime.  Zarif only offers concessions from the other side for Iran to stop terror or spinning centrifuges.  He does not speak of ordered society, non-discrimination, freedoms, trade, schools, health clinics, good relations with neighbors, highways, etc.

“Iran condemned 14 political prisoners to death last month, rights groups say,” Iran International, 12-2-24.

“Iran in crisis: Battling Israel left Tehran too weak to deal with Syria, researcher says,” JPost, 12-2-24.

“Iran’s Parliament Passes Strict ‘Chastity and Hijab’ Law,” Iran Wire, 12-2-24.  On Dec. 13 the “Chastity and Hijab” law starts, “a complex system of fines and restrictions targeting what it defines as improper dress for both men and women. Under Article 49, individuals violating dress codes will face escalating financial penalties. Initial offenses will incur fines ranging from 20 million ($285) to 80 million ($1,140) tomans, while subsequent violations will attract higher fines, between 80 million and 165 million ($2,350) tomans. Those unable to pay these fines will encounter significant service restrictions, including impediments to passport renewal, vehicle registration, obtaining country exit permits, releasing impounded vehicles, and acquiring or renewing driving licenses. The law defines improper dress for women as clothing that exposes areas below the neck, above the ankles, or above the wrists, or clothing that “tempts” others. Citizens are encouraged to report violations through the police’s public reporting system. Business owners also face substantial penalties for promoting attire considered inappropriate by the law. A first offense could result in a maximum Grade 3 fine or the payment of two months’ business profit. A second offense escalates to a maximum Grade 2 fine or four months’ business profit. A third offense compounds these penalties with a Grade 5 imprisonment sentence, potentially accompanied by travel bans and advertising restrictions. The legislation mandates immediate detention for individuals deemed “nude” in public spaces. A controversial aspect of the law is its extensive surveillance provision, which allows footage from various government agencies, including the Ministry of Intelligence and the Ministry of Defense, to identify individuals opposing the mandatory hijab.”

“Reform” my foot.  The 2023 law was pushed by the Regime for control.  “Iranian official says government will take steps to reform new hijab restrictions,” UPI, 12-1-24.

A poor country Iran doesn’t have to be!  Wealth beyond measure from under the ground, and a capable people.  If only the country’s leadership would let citizens have freedom!  “Iran’s Per-Capita is Declining Rapidly,” Iran Focus, 12-1-24.

Embarrassment to Iran to loose Aleppo after helping Assad win it back.  “Iran’s top diplomat meets Syrian president in Damascus,” Al Arabiya, 12-1-24.  First step will be special forces and snipers and militia.  See “Iran FM arrives in Syria to deliver Tehran’s message of ‘firm support’ in battle against terrorism,” Press TV, 12-1-24.

This will be a fun project to watch never happen.  It would be longer than the Chunnel but not as deep.  But with so many of Iran’s proposed projects, they don’t set aside the needed funds or mismanage the project.  Just watch (this will take several years to watch, granted).  “Iran, Qatar pursue plans for world’s longest undersea tunnel,” IRNA, 12-1-24.

Talk about deceitful coloring.  Check out the gold color given to the dirt in this photo of the Zarshouran mine.  “Iran’s largest gold mine reports significant increase in proven reserves,” Tehran Times, 12-1-24.  But it’s not the first time.  For comparison, see other pictures on the internet, including this one.

“Report: Iran sees ceasefire as a chance to take stock, rebuild Hezbollah,” Times of Israel, 12-1-24.

“Iranian Dissident Rapper Toomaj Salehi Freed From Prison Months After Charges Were Dropped – Update,” Deadline, 12-1-24.

I have been watching over the several months for these types of stories.  “Israeli jets block Iranian plane suspected of ferrying arms to Hezbollah over Syria,” Times of Israel, 12-1-24.  “Israeli warplanes intercept flight, order it to turn around; incident comes amid efforts to prevent all weapons shipments to Lebanese terror group.  … “In recent months, the Israel Defense Forces has forced several Iranian flights to make U-turns over Syrian or Iraqi airspace, after they were suspected of carrying weapons to Hezbollah.”  Assad and Khamenei must hate not controlling the skies over Syria.

“Iran’s president appeals to people to help resolve energy crisis,” Iran International, 12-1-24.

“Assad’s downfall could trigger a crisis for Tehran,” Iran International, 12-1-24.

The Arrow system knocks down a ballistic sent by Iran’s proxy.  “IDF: Ballistic missile launched by Houthis from Yemen intercepted,” Times of Israel, 12-1-24.

“Rebels in Syria take advantage of Israel’s successes against a weakened Iran axis,” Times of Israel, 12-1-24.

Considering the “diplomatic” status of Iran’s former “consulate” in Damascus, it is unlikely the consulate in Aleppo is anything other than an IRGC/Quds Force facility.  “Iran Says ‘Terrorist Elements’ Attacked Its Consulate In Aleppo,” AFP, 11-30-24.

Remember, the Regime is not using this to boost agriculture or better plan water projects or anticipate where to build new highways.  This technology is instead dedicated to the expansion of the Shia Crescent.  “Iran achieves ‘super resolution’ satellite imaging technology,”  Mehr, 11-30-24.

“First two Su-35E fighters were delivered to Iran in pieces,” BulgarianMilitary.com, 11-30-24.  “Flugrevue also notes that while the initial IRIAF plan was to use the Su-35SE to replace its aging fleet of Grumman F-14A Tomcats stationed in Isfahan, the order for the Su-35SE has reportedly been expanded from 25 to 50 aircraft. This adjustment suggests a broader role for the Su-35SE in Iran’s air force, potentially supporting the phase-out of its aging McDonnell Douglas F-4E Phantom II fighters.”

“750,000 Students Out of School in Iran,” Iran Focus, 11-30-24.

“Iran, Russia foreign ministers say they support Syria in confronting rebels, Iran state media reports,” Reuters, 11-3-24.  “Iran’s Abbas Araqchi told Russia’s Sergei Lavrov in a phone call that the attacks were part of an Israeli-U.S. plan to destabilise the region, state media said.”  This is the type of statement that is blatantly false over the many years of U.S. and Israel presence in the entire Middle East.  Let’s see if Reuters or her news services has the courage to follow this line of statements over time.  It is part of accurate reporting and not passive regurgitation of what some FM spokesman says.

“Iran calls for expulsion of Israel from UN Commission on Status of Women,” IFP, 11-30-24.  Iran is such an authority on the treatment of women—the reporter should have delved into how Iran treats women.

“Assad’s humiliating retreat is a blow to Iran,” Telegraph, 11-30-24.

“Setbacks for Russia, Iran and Hezbollah Turn Into a Catastrophe for Syria’s Assad,” WSJ, 11-30-24.  “But, in October last year, Hezbollah’s leader Hassan Nasrallah made a strategic mistake, joining the war against Israel that was kicked off by Hamas. As the Lebanese militia redeployed its weapons and forces from Syria to fight Israel, in what it believed would be a carefully calibrated campaign, it suffered nothing short of a military catastrophe. … In recent months, Israel killed most of Hezbollah’s senior leadership, including Nasrallah himself, decimated the militia’s ranks and destroyed its weapons caches in southern Lebanon and south Beirut. Following a ground invasion, Israel has forced Hezbollah, which had pledged to keep fighting until a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, into a separate cease-fire. … Since the Gaza war began, Iran, too, has lost some of its top Revolutionary Guard commanders in Syria and Lebanon to Israeli airstrikes. Instead of projecting strength, Iran’s retaliation against Israel—the first direct missile exchange between the two countries—resulted in the Israeli bombing of Iranian air defenses and weapons-production facilities. This was a blow to Tehran’s military power and political prestige alike. … The current rebel offensive in Aleppo was led by the Hayat Tahrir al Sham, or HTS, an Islamist militia coalition that enjoys Turkish backing. Its key leaders include Islamist fighters once associated with the Nusra Front, a one-time Syrian affiliate of al Qaeda. Though the HTS leadership has publicly disavowed al Qaeda, the group remains classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S. government.”

“From VOA Persian: Aviation group asked to condemn Iran for downing Ukrainian flight,” VOA Persian, 11-29-24.

“Iran plans to install 6,000 centrifuges to enrich uranium, IAEA says,” Al Jazeera, 11-29-24.  Again, you don’t need this for a peaceful program.

“Iran nuclear proliferation ‘critical threat’ in coming months, French spy chief says,” Reuters, 11-29-24.

“Iran Disrupts UN Session to Exclude Kurdish Human Rights Group,” Iran Wire, 11-29-24.

Notice the photo—she is at risk for arrest and her family harassed due to improper hijab.  “Iranian female athlete appears to seek asylum in Denmark,” Iran International, 11-29-24.

“Syria’s rebels exploit weaknesses in Iran’s proxies to launch surprise offensive,” CNN, 11-29-24.  A weakened Hezbollah and the fleeing of Syrian soldiers opened up Aleppo.

“[M]uch depends on how Hezbollah’s bosses in Tehran proceed.”  Correct.  Over and over we see the point of this news blog on Iran, that it is up to the country’s leaders to decide whether they wish to be a normal country or if they wish to be a revolutionary cause.  See “Trump’s effect on the Middle East,” Politico, 11-28-24.

“With Trump Returning and Hezbollah Weakened, Iran Strikes a Conciliatory Tone,” NYT, 11-28-24.

Interesting that OPCW decided to hold this meeting with Iran’s chemical weapons official and talk so much about it.  “Deputy Foreign Minister and the Director-General discussed a range of issues related to the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Both sides underscored the importance of upholding the global norm against chemical weapons and the role of multilateralism in addressing contemporary challenges in chemical disarmament and non-proliferation.”  Let’s hope that Iran complies.  See “OPCW Director-General meets Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs,” OPCW, 11-28-24.

“Israel warns Syria of ‘direct price’ to pay if it helps Hezbollah rearm,” Times of Israel, 11-28-24.  “A series of Israeli strikes on border crossings between Lebanon and Syria just before a ceasefire with Hezbollah took effect Wednesday morning were intended to set back the terror group’s smuggling efforts, while driving home as a stark warning to Damascus that Israel will take severe action to prevent attempts to rearm Hezbollah with Iranian weapons via Syrian territory. The Israel Defense Forces has said that amid the truce it would continue to act to prevent all weapon deliveries to the Lebanese terror group, including by striking shipments anywhere in Lebanon or Syria. “We struck on Syrian soil all attempts to transfer weapons to Hezbollah. If we detect intentions to transfer weapons to the organization — we will act,” IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said in a press conference Wednesday night.”  …  “According to the Israeli military, Unit 4400 was established in 2000 and built numerous “strategic routes” along the Syria-Lebanon border with Tehran’s support to deliver weapons from Iran and its proxies to the terror group in Lebanon. Thousands of trucks and hundreds of planes carrying missiles and other components for Hezbollah have traveled from Iran to Syria, and later to Lebanon, in recent years, the IDF said.”

“US bill aims to protect citizens from Iranian murder-for-hire plots,” Iran International, 11-27-24.  “The Deterrence Act is a response to Iran’s plot to kill President elect-Donald Trump and other Iran-led murder-for-hire attempts which US investigators have described in lengthy criminal complaints in recent months. The bill increases criminal penalties for those who commit or attempt certain crimes on behalf of foreign adversaries, which already come with increased prison sentences. “Foreign adversaries like Iran are working with criminal organizations in the United States to kill people on American soil,” co-sponsor Senator Maggie Hassan, a Democrat from New Hampshire, said in a statement. … Earlier this month, the Department of Justice (DOJ) disclosed an Iranian-led plot to assassinate Donald Trump, charging a man they said had been tasked by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to kill the Republican candidate on the campaign trail. Farhad Shakeri, an Afghan national was identified by the FBI as an Iranian government asset who moved to America as a young child but was deported after being imprisoned on robbery charges. He allegedly hired individuals he met while in prison for the alleged plots, according to a criminal complaint unsealed in federal court in Manhattan.”

“Iran reserves right to react to Israeli strikes, welcomes Lebanon ceasefire, foreign minister says,” Reuters, 11-27-24.

“Rage Against the Regime: Iran review – these stories of resistance are utterly astonishing,” Guardian, 11-27-24.

Again, Iran is not leveling with the world.  You don’t need “advanced” centrifuges for ordinary electricity production.  “Why is Iran’s FM talking about ‘advanced centrifuges’? – analysis,” JPost, 11-27-24.

“Iran’s navy commander reveals new threats, including military, submarine capabilities,” JPost, 11-27-24.  “In addition to heavy submarines, the Iranian Navy is also developing special logistics drones that can carry equipment and even people.”

Notice the specificity of unit number and commander names.  “IDF seizes strategic Iranian weapons bound for West Bank terrorists,” Ynet, 11-27-24.

Countries that try to be normal countries don’t have military strategies for controlling others.  “The ceasefire in Lebanon has dealt a huge blow to Iran’s regional strategy,” Chatham House, 11-27-24.

“What Russia, Iran, and the Houthis get out of Moscow recruiting Yemeni mercenaries,” Atlantic Council, 11-27-24.

“Mohammad Rasoulof left Iran after making his most daring film,” NPR, 11-26-24.  “These videos were truly shocking, at least in two ways. On the one hand, they showed you what oppressive and savage regime is ruling the country.  And on the other hand, they showed you this incredibly courageous young generation that knows how to express its wants.”

There is no response from Iran-backed Hezbollah yet.  “Israel Hezbollah ceasefire deal agreed, confirms Biden,” BBC, 11-26-24.  See also “Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire to start Wednesday morning,” The Hill, 11-26-24.

“Iran wants to assert dominance over Lebanon amid talks on ceasefire deal,” JPost, 11-26-24.

“ICC arrest warrants: Iran’s hidden hand in targeting Israel – opinion,” JPost 11-26-24.

A two-mile tunnel from Syria into Lebanon.  And not used by travelers or cargo trucks.  Wonder what it is for?!  “Israeli airstrikes hit Iran’s alleged Syria-Lebanon arms route,” Iran International, 11-25-24.

The Israeli rabbi in UAE was tracked by Iranian intelligence.  “UAE arrests three over death of rabbi Israel says was murdered in ‘antisemitic act of terror’,” CNN, 11-25-24.

“Iran’s supreme leader says Netanyahu should be given death sentence,” I24, 11-25-24.  “The ICC arrest warrant against the Israeli prime minister is not enough, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said.”  See also, “Iran’s Khamenei calls for death sentence for Israeli leaders, not arrest warrants,” Times of Israel, 11-25-24.  “Ayatollah says International Criminal Court warrants are not enough, ‘criminal leaders’ Netanyahu and Gallant should face capital punishment.”  …  “They issued an arrest warrant, that’s not enough… Death sentence must be issued for these criminal leaders,” Khamenei said, referring to the Israeli leaders.”

“An Iranian Ballistic Missile Hit Israel. We Got a Peek Inside Its ‘Brain’,” Haaertz, 11-25-24.

“Iran ‘categorically rejects’ allegations of involvement in murder of Abu Dhabi rabbi,” Reuters, Times of Israel, 11-24-24.

“No ‘peaceful rationale’: US, UK, France, Germany back resolution against Iran’s nuclear program,” JPost, 11-24-24.  The countries raised their concern with the Islamic Republic’s announcement of its further nuclear program expansion, which they explained has “no credible, peaceful rationale.”

“Air Pollution in Iran Causes 50,000 Deaths Per Year,” Iran Focus, 11-24-24.  This issue is at the bottom priority for the Leader.

“Iranian involvement in rabbi’s murder in Dubai: a new step in IRGC terror,” I24, 11-24-24.

“Iran to hold nuclear talks with Britain, France, Germany on Nov. 29,” Kyodo News, 11-24-24.