Updates
Iran
Lincoln Strike Group passed thru the Suez canal overnight. Should be in strike range within a day. B52 deployed to Qatar overnight as well. Additional sanctions have been announced by the WH to start ‘very soon’.
Iran has threatened to go full bore on its nuclear program if Europe doesn’t protect Iran from US sanctions within the next 60 days. So far the EU has rejected any such demands.
As reported by NBC news, Iran has ordered/given permission to its proxy terror groups to attack US interests at will throughout the world. This will develop into a dangerous game of chicken.
In addition to terror and regular military activities - this my be the time Iran pulls out the cyber attack genie. It is relatively common knowledge that Iran has been aggressively probing US internet infrastructure seeking signs of weakness that they could exploit as necessary. If things go kinetic in the M.E, better be alert to the cyber attack threat.
N Korea
Overnight Kim launched two short ranged missiles. Seems that since he had his confab with Putin, he’s gotten more froggy.
Also overnight, the US seized a N K coal ship for violating sanctions. First action of this nature.
Venezuela
Maduro arrested first Vice President of the National Assembly in Venezuela overnight.
I’ll be on the road for the next week plus - here are some things to watch for.
Iran
US Maritime Administration issued a warning that Iran may attack civilian commercial shipping vessels. Shades of the 1980’s.
The Iranian Ambassador to the UN denies Iran has given the ‘green light’ to proxy elements throughout the world. The US has stated that any attack by a proxy would be considered the same as an attack by Iran.
Overall assessment - US and Iran both putting their pieces in place for the next incident. Iran is weakened in many ways due to its efforts in Syria both in material, men and money. Given its strategic importance, the US (I would certainly hope) has maintained close watch over Iranian assets and capabilities to close the gulf. Probably a dozen or more OPLANS taken off the shelf and being updated as you read.
Venezuela
Lots of action when the USCG James was reported by Venezuela as having entered territorial waters. The Venezuelan navy reportedly sent ships to intercept. Later, they stated that it actually was in the contiguous zone of Venezuela. Still international waters, but an area of interest with some rights under maritime law.
Power woes continue to plague the nation as large portions of Caracas go black
N Korea
Discussion of a second NK cargo ship used to illicitly carry coal being seized.
Meanwhile, follow on analysis of the short range missile shot recently reflect even more on the Russian Iskander design. This model is nuclear capable. So far those Kim has stayed back from crossing the red line by launching longer ranged weapons.