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On The One Hand, Iran's Economy Is imploding...On The Other Hand, The Mullahs And IRGC Are Willing To Suffer A Lot!
We Need More Hands!
Every second that goes by weakens the Iranian attempts to control the Strait of Hormuz. There are multiple projects underway to create the infrastructure to bypass the chokepoint of Hormuz, and not just pipelines that bypass it. Shale oil, fracking, horizontal drilling, vast improvements in techniques to maximize production in existing wells, reopening huge oil fields like in the North Sea, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), and the Trump administration push to make America an energy exporter have all contributed to the decrease in the importance of Hormuz, and Iran's power over the world oil economy.
Guyana is becoming a serious producer, Venezuela's oil industry slide into unimportance has been stopped, even Canada is quietly producing for their customers in the Pacific. But...the Mullahs and the IRGC are willing to cause massive damage to the people and the economy of Iran to further their geopolitical goal of a religious armageddon. They will not surrender, and they will not relieve the pressure on the people...they simply don't care. Their goal is simple...survive to continue their quest for the destruction of Israel, America, and the West. But...their blockade, incomplete as it may be, is cementing their position as the enemy of the Gulf states, and it will have far-reaching consequences both diplomatically and economically for years to come. The massive American and Israeli military response to Iran has destroyed most of the military industrial capacity, has destroyed most of their missile stocks and anti-aircraft capability, and has killed a huge number of their senior leadership, which has created a massive power struggle across the Mullahcracy and the IRGC. But...American resolve has an expiration date. The United States is not in the business of colonialism, and when we tried it, we failed miserably, so "fixing" Iran is not and hopefully will not be a part of our geopolitical goals. The Mullahs and the IRGC believe that simply waiting us out will be a win. But...economic pressure, coupled with a Western naval presence in the Strait of Hormuz will gradually erode the ability of the Mullahs and the IRGC to control the Iranian people and to project power through their terrorist proxies. It will also take Iran and Hormuz off the front page, since economic warfare and boring escorting of commercial vessels is far less interesting for the hysterical media. But...President Trump is fanatical about the appearance of a deal, and perhaps he will settle for a public deal that sounds good but has no substance. But...it is entirely possible that Iran is on the brink. They do not have the foreign exchange to purchase enough gasoline to run their economy, their central planning has been destroyed, the death of Khamenei Senior has left a huge hole in the message being conveyed to the faithful. The Mullahcracy might just wither away. But...The IRGC is dug in like ticks, and getting rid of them will be a massive undertaking. Even if the Mullahs fade into nothing, the IRGC will be a danger, at least until they become a priority target of the American armed forces. Or even better: the Persian people! See my point? The perspective on the Iranian situation is complex, and there are rational arguments to be made from most sane sides. One reason stands out...we are dealing with a mindset that is completely foreign to Western culture. There is no risk/benefit calculation being made in Tehran. There is no sensitivity to civilian casualties. There is no sense of honor or respect during "negotiations." There is no cultural imperative for truth. There is one goal, and the means justifies the end to an extent that most westerners cannot comprehend. That of course supports one clear strategy...the total destruction of the Mullahs and the IRGC. Whether that happens economically or militarily remains to be seen, but there will be no end to the Iranian Problem until that occurs!Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
BOING!
Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at August 16, 2026 12:01 PM (MOPlc)
2
g'early afternoon, 'rons
g'early afternoon, 'rons
Posted by: AltonJackson at August 16, 2026 12:03 PM (AMvSw)
3
https://youtu.be/3iiFVpfOVr4
Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at August 16, 2026 12:04 PM (MOPlc)
4
I need more toys
Posted by: what the cat drug in at August 16, 2026 12:04 PM (jrgJz)
5
Good afternoon everyone
Posted by: Skip at August 16, 2026 12:04 PM (Ia/+0)
6
There are some rumors of arms making it to the "Iranian People", and I guess there is still the non-IRGC police/military force, as well? Seems the Iranian people would be ready to do more than act as sheep to the slaughter while they protest peacefully, and maybe a lot of them are more aggressively active than I/we can see.
Hard to say ... would be nice to hear of constant IRGC deaths, rather than IRGC killing of civilian protesters.
Hard to say ... would be nice to hear of constant IRGC deaths, rather than IRGC killing of civilian protesters.
Posted by: illiniwek at August 16, 2026 12:08 PM (vbXSk)
7
But...the Mullahs and the IRGC are willing to cause massive damage to the people and the economy of Iran to further their geopolitical goal of a religious armageddon.
Their "religion" requires them to do whatever they can to bring on the gotterdammerung, even if that means destroying themselves.
Their "religion" requires them to do whatever they can to bring on the gotterdammerung, even if that means destroying themselves.
Posted by: Mister Scott (Formerly GWS) at August 16, 2026 12:10 PM (cpFbA)
8
But...The IRGC is dug in like ticks, and getting rid of them will be a massive undertaking.
We are going to need a shitload of petroleum jelly and matches.
We are going to need a shitload of petroleum jelly and matches.
Posted by: Count de Monet, folklore healing while-u-wait at August 16, 2026 12:11 PM (wVcYX)
9
>>But...the Mullahs and the IRGC are willing to cause massive damage to the people and the economy of Iran to further their geopolitical goal of a religious armageddon.
Not my circus, not my clowns. The Iranian people will either grow a pair or they won't.
How's the rest working out for the diaper heads?
Anyone hear from Hamas recently? Hezbollah? The Houthis just got their shit pushed in and went back into their holes.
Pickaxe Mountain looks more like Pickaxe festering wound. And if the goat fuckers get frisky we can always send another message from Missouri. Air mail.
Hormuz will be a distant memory in a year.
I don't remember the day that al Qaeda ceased to be a threat but I do remember like it was 5 minutes ago, because it was, that I stopped thinking about al Qaeda. Take the win. Leave the cannoli.
Not my circus, not my clowns. The Iranian people will either grow a pair or they won't.
How's the rest working out for the diaper heads?
Anyone hear from Hamas recently? Hezbollah? The Houthis just got their shit pushed in and went back into their holes.
Pickaxe Mountain looks more like Pickaxe festering wound. And if the goat fuckers get frisky we can always send another message from Missouri. Air mail.
Hormuz will be a distant memory in a year.
I don't remember the day that al Qaeda ceased to be a threat but I do remember like it was 5 minutes ago, because it was, that I stopped thinking about al Qaeda. Take the win. Leave the cannoli.
Posted by: JackStraw at August 16, 2026 12:13 PM (viF8m)
10
The Iranian public demonstrated some cunning early in the conflict with their ability to take down some of the secret police and finger IRGC high value targets.
They're not helpless.
And for God's sake, don't try to funnel arms into the country with some sketchy 3rd party like the Kurds. Because, fuck them.
They're not helpless.
And for God's sake, don't try to funnel arms into the country with some sketchy 3rd party like the Kurds. Because, fuck them.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at August 16, 2026 12:14 PM (2Cry5)
11
I still hope that at some point, either soon or after the midterms, Trump will launch another massive bombing spree, at least to accelerate the deterioration of Iran's economy, and maybe conquer or demolish Kharg Island.
Posted by: PG at August 16, 2026 12:14 PM (qln0f)
12
7 But...the Mullahs and the IRGC are willing to cause massive damage to the people and the economy of Iran to further their geopolitical goal of a religious armageddon.
Their "religion" requires them to do whatever they can to bring on the gotterdammerung, even if that means destroying themselves.
Posted by: Mister Scott
I think it is beyond religion at this point--it is more to the point that those in power have done such unspeakable crimes that they cannot relinquish control or be killed by their own people.
I think like for the old Soviet Union, no one believes anything anymore at the top of the regime other than survival, saving as much of their wealth as they can, and staying in power precisely because they are cornered rats.
Late stage 3rd Reich was that way too--underlings believed in the bullshit, especially the kiddies, but the elite were busy making exit plans while the regime collapsed around them.
Their "religion" requires them to do whatever they can to bring on the gotterdammerung, even if that means destroying themselves.
Posted by: Mister Scott
I think it is beyond religion at this point--it is more to the point that those in power have done such unspeakable crimes that they cannot relinquish control or be killed by their own people.
I think like for the old Soviet Union, no one believes anything anymore at the top of the regime other than survival, saving as much of their wealth as they can, and staying in power precisely because they are cornered rats.
Late stage 3rd Reich was that way too--underlings believed in the bullshit, especially the kiddies, but the elite were busy making exit plans while the regime collapsed around them.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:14 PM (E4rtv)
13
The far, far left is disappoint with the far, far, far left.
Former Bernie Sanders Operative Warns Radical Left Has “Overtaken” Democratic Party
Former Bernie Sanders Operative Warns Radical Left Has “Overtaken” Democratic Party
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Fear Me! at August 16, 2026 12:16 PM (ndZc7)
14
The mullets: "some of you will die, others hurt, but it's a risk we're willing to take"
Posted by: man at August 16, 2026 12:16 PM (cGjQu)
15
This war is STILL going on??
It's been MONTHS?!?!
I thought I did see someone on a news show talkihg about Iranians getting arms through the CIA.
But I could have been hallucinating.
It's been MONTHS?!?!
I thought I did see someone on a news show talkihg about Iranians getting arms through the CIA.
But I could have been hallucinating.
Posted by: Stateless - keeping 15 year Ralphy happy and alive. Puppy at heart at August 16, 2026 12:17 PM (Sco7b)
16
There is one goal, and the means justifies the end to an extent that most westerners cannot comprehend.
↑ Even that statement is Western oriented. ↑
You will get more mileage from:
I take from you, good. You take from me, bad.
Where Good and Bad are expressed in terms of emotion and pragmatics, not from a moral framework.
↑ Even that statement is Western oriented. ↑
You will get more mileage from:
I take from you, good. You take from me, bad.
Where Good and Bad are expressed in terms of emotion and pragmatics, not from a moral framework.
Posted by: Community Notes at August 16, 2026 12:18 PM (a4flb)
17
I predict pain.
Treasury Secretary Bessent Says U.S. Set to Deliver “Never Seen Before” Economic Pain on Iran
Treasury Secretary Bessent Says U.S. Set to Deliver “Never Seen Before” Economic Pain on Iran
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Fear Me! at August 16, 2026 12:19 PM (ndZc7)
18
I would take the guess like Nazi Germany or Soviet Russia or better Hungarian revolt , a revolt will be taken down hard and fast
Posted by: Skip at August 16, 2026 12:19 PM (Ia/+0)
19
CBD:
Did you see my comment the other day that Aldi's is selling "Frozen Ice Cubes" that are very large and clear. Something about reverse osmosis and slow-melting. $4.99 for four.
And I thought selling water in bottles was a rip off!
Did you see my comment the other day that Aldi's is selling "Frozen Ice Cubes" that are very large and clear. Something about reverse osmosis and slow-melting. $4.99 for four.
And I thought selling water in bottles was a rip off!
Posted by: IrishEi?! at August 16, 2026 12:19 PM (3ImbR)
20
Cut a deal let’s get the fuck out of there already. Maybe we can salvage some of the midterms. This war has 30% support. It’s a dead end.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:20 PM (hNsiU)
21
Muslim Iran is a cancer to civilization. There is no negotiating with cancer. It has to be killed. Period.
Posted by: Pip McGuigin at August 16, 2026 12:20 PM (6bKx+)
22
whig, I concur. I also think in Russia, Putin's crew (he's certainly not the only problem at the top) is getting out over their skis a bit but not yet direly, but economics inside Russia can't possibly be as healthy as they claim. Wouldn't be surprised if someone pulls a Yeltsin in the next few years, if it doesn't all collapse first.
Posted by: RandomDave (if you can spare a bit, please click) at August 16, 2026 12:21 PM (aJQbY)
23
Something about reverse osmosis and slow-melting. $4.99 for four.
And I thought selling water in bottles was a rip off!
Posted by: IrishEi?! at August 16, 2026 12:19 PM (3ImbR)
I can make 12 every 60 hours, plus awesome shards from the extra around the molds. It costs me about 10 cents in electricity.
Total expenditure is about $30 for the cooler, the molds, and the plastic test tube tray to keep the molds above the bottom of the cooler.
It's easy.
And I thought selling water in bottles was a rip off!
Posted by: IrishEi?! at August 16, 2026 12:19 PM (3ImbR)
I can make 12 every 60 hours, plus awesome shards from the extra around the molds. It costs me about 10 cents in electricity.
Total expenditure is about $30 for the cooler, the molds, and the plastic test tube tray to keep the molds above the bottom of the cooler.
It's easy.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (l4RKn)
Posted by: I am the Shadout Mapes, the Housekeeper at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (XE5AP)
25
11 I still hope that at some point, either soon or after the midterms, Trump will launch another massive bombing spree, at least to accelerate the deterioration of Iran's economy, and maybe conquer or demolish Kharg Island.
Posted by: PG
Not much reason to put US troops on an island so that they can be barraged by drones, missiles, etc. and you have to run a gauntlet to deliver supplies to them.
Easier to just prevent any ships from departing right now which we are doing. No ships carrying Iranian crude being able to leave Persian Gulf, no oil revenue.
Kharg is one of those targets we can hit if we want at any time but it won't hasten the end of the IRGC simply because the revenue from it is cut off anyway.
Better to cut off the Iranian islands around the Hormuz and let those troops on those islands rot from lack of supply. We did the same thing to Japanese in WWII, bypassed the strongholds but cut off the logistics for Japanese troops to be resupplied.
Posted by: PG
Not much reason to put US troops on an island so that they can be barraged by drones, missiles, etc. and you have to run a gauntlet to deliver supplies to them.
Easier to just prevent any ships from departing right now which we are doing. No ships carrying Iranian crude being able to leave Persian Gulf, no oil revenue.
Kharg is one of those targets we can hit if we want at any time but it won't hasten the end of the IRGC simply because the revenue from it is cut off anyway.
Better to cut off the Iranian islands around the Hormuz and let those troops on those islands rot from lack of supply. We did the same thing to Japanese in WWII, bypassed the strongholds but cut off the logistics for Japanese troops to be resupplied.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (E4rtv)
26
This war has 30% support. It’s a dead end.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:20 PM (hNsiU)
Go suck your mom's cock.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:20 PM (hNsiU)
Go suck your mom's cock.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (l4RKn)
27
> Anyone hear from Hamas recently? Hezbollah? The Houthis just got their shit pushed in and went back into their holes.
---------
Know who else we haven't heard from recently?
BLM, Antifa and the "free Palestine" nutjobs. It was supposed to be a violence filled summer, but those outfits apparently don't have access to the funds from SPLC, ActBlue and the other, leftist money laundering outfits being shutdown by the administration.
Lack of funds really puts a crimp in things, don't it?
---------
Know who else we haven't heard from recently?
BLM, Antifa and the "free Palestine" nutjobs. It was supposed to be a violence filled summer, but those outfits apparently don't have access to the funds from SPLC, ActBlue and the other, leftist money laundering outfits being shutdown by the administration.
Lack of funds really puts a crimp in things, don't it?
Posted by: Martini Farmer at August 16, 2026 12:23 PM (2Cry5)
28
Meanwhile, Trump is dropping bombs on the corrupt FBI under Wray on social media.
The sky is yellow and sun is blue and Elvis says I need to go for a walk in the park.
Jerry, Nicky Hopkins, Matt Kelly ... we was kings once.
https://tinyurl.com/3m3cacvx
The sky is yellow and sun is blue and Elvis says I need to go for a walk in the park.
Jerry, Nicky Hopkins, Matt Kelly ... we was kings once.
https://tinyurl.com/3m3cacvx
Posted by: JackStraw at August 16, 2026 12:23 PM (viF8m)
29
Afternoon everyone.
Would really love to see the Persian people rise up against the IRGC.
Kind of tough without being armed.
I do not want to see American troops on the ground in Iran, high time the countries in the region go in and take care of business.
I am excluding Israel from the countries that should have boots on the ground. To much back lash if they were involved in that sort of operation.
My 2 cents.
Would really love to see the Persian people rise up against the IRGC.
Kind of tough without being armed.
I do not want to see American troops on the ground in Iran, high time the countries in the region go in and take care of business.
I am excluding Israel from the countries that should have boots on the ground. To much back lash if they were involved in that sort of operation.
My 2 cents.
Posted by: Scuba_Dude at August 16, 2026 12:23 PM (dZE4s)
30
Article at American Thinker that Islam is a cancer to the world
Posted by: Skip at August 16, 2026 12:23 PM (Ia/+0)
31
The Browns are stating they will win six games this year. The Dolphins haven’t spoken about their prospects yet. The Commanders tell me they have improved.
Posted by: Pudinhead at August 16, 2026 12:24 PM (KGj36)
32
Wouldn't be surprised if someone pulls a Yeltsin in the next few years, if it doesn't all collapse first.
Posted by: RandomDave (if you can spare a bit, please click) at August 16, 2026 12:21 PM (aJQbY)
Putin is being careful to insulate most Russians from the mess in Ukraine. I think he still has significant support.
Posted by: RandomDave (if you can spare a bit, please click) at August 16, 2026 12:21 PM (aJQbY)
Putin is being careful to insulate most Russians from the mess in Ukraine. I think he still has significant support.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:25 PM (l4RKn)
33
It is tragic to think that Michael Brown, if he had lived, might now be a Professor at Cambridge...
Posted by: I am the Shadout Mapes, the Housekeeper at August 16, 2026 12:25 PM (XE5AP)
34
Frozen Ice Cubes"
I bet they're right beside the Tunafish.
Posted by: I am the Shadout Mapes, the Housekeeper at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (XE5AP)
Neat the ATM machine.
I bet they're right beside the Tunafish.
Posted by: I am the Shadout Mapes, the Housekeeper at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (XE5AP)
Neat the ATM machine.
Posted by: Mr Aspirin Factory at August 16, 2026 12:25 PM (R5BEI)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Fear Me! at August 16, 2026 12:26 PM (ndZc7)
36
There are some rumors of arms making it to the "Iranian People", and I guess there is still the non-IRGC police/military force, as well?
One would think that the tens of billions of dollars worth of military surplus left literally next door in Afghanistan a few short years ago would be in country. Why in Hell is there a CIA if a simple arms transfer is beyond their capabilities? Maybe we should get Hillary in on the deal, she was able to arrange Libya/Syria arms transfers.
And a golden opportunity for the Viktor Bout types of this world is going untouched?
Apparently Freedom really is an "Exceptional" attribute.
One would think that the tens of billions of dollars worth of military surplus left literally next door in Afghanistan a few short years ago would be in country. Why in Hell is there a CIA if a simple arms transfer is beyond their capabilities? Maybe we should get Hillary in on the deal, she was able to arrange Libya/Syria arms transfers.
And a golden opportunity for the Viktor Bout types of this world is going untouched?
Apparently Freedom really is an "Exceptional" attribute.
Posted by: Community Notes at August 16, 2026 12:27 PM (a4flb)
37
Iran's economy is so far down in the toilet that this turned into a food thread inside of 20 comments.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at August 16, 2026 12:28 PM (FZ29D)
38
22 whig, I concur. I also think in Russia, Putin's crew (he's certainly not the only problem at the top) is getting out over their skis a bit but not yet direly, but economics inside Russia can't possibly be as healthy as they claim. Wouldn't be surprised if someone pulls a Yeltsin in the next few years, if it doesn't all collapse first.
Posted by: RandomDave
========
We are in a phase where Russia apparently has no answers to being droned and the Ukrainians have developed their own missiles. Neither apparently are doing much with manned aircraft nowadays. The weak point for Russian military has always been their logistics and that is what the Ukrainians are focused upon. The question is whether Putin orders general mobilization because sheer manpower is the traditional Russian strength--you throw away lives for gaining territory. Very Russian. I also expect more terror against Ukrainian cities by missiles and bombs.
Curious to see if Trans Dneister lasts in such a situation--Romania seems reluctant to poke the bear but Moldova and Romania are getting tired of the bear poking them.
Posted by: RandomDave
========
We are in a phase where Russia apparently has no answers to being droned and the Ukrainians have developed their own missiles. Neither apparently are doing much with manned aircraft nowadays. The weak point for Russian military has always been their logistics and that is what the Ukrainians are focused upon. The question is whether Putin orders general mobilization because sheer manpower is the traditional Russian strength--you throw away lives for gaining territory. Very Russian. I also expect more terror against Ukrainian cities by missiles and bombs.
Curious to see if Trans Dneister lasts in such a situation--Romania seems reluctant to poke the bear but Moldova and Romania are getting tired of the bear poking them.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:28 PM (E4rtv)
39
The Browns are stating they will win six games this year. The Dolphins haven’t spoken about their prospects yet. The Commanders tell me they have improved.
Posted by: Pudinhead
I call those bold moves, Cotton. Let's see how they work out for them.
The Browns are stating they will win six games this year. The Dolphins haven’t spoken about their prospects yet. The Commanders tell me they have improved.
Posted by: Pudinhead
I call those bold moves, Cotton. Let's see how they work out for them.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) at August 16, 2026 12:28 PM (ixS3i)
40
Trump will launch another massive bombing spree, at least to accelerate the deterioration of Iran's economy, and maybe conquer or demolish Kharg Island.
Posted by: PG at August 16, 2026 12:14 PM (qln0f)
I agree in principle, but disagree on the targets.
I think that we should go after the IRGC hammer and tongs. Anyone affiliated with them too. That is a low cost target. A-10s and Apache's and F-16s shooting cheap guns and missiles.
As for Kharg? No reason to destroy it, and maybe if the Persian people rise up they could use the almost instant revenue from that facility.
Posted by: PG at August 16, 2026 12:14 PM (qln0f)
I agree in principle, but disagree on the targets.
I think that we should go after the IRGC hammer and tongs. Anyone affiliated with them too. That is a low cost target. A-10s and Apache's and F-16s shooting cheap guns and missiles.
As for Kharg? No reason to destroy it, and maybe if the Persian people rise up they could use the almost instant revenue from that facility.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:29 PM (l4RKn)
41
Curious to see if Trans Dneister lasts in such a situation--Romania seems reluctant to poke the bear but Moldova and Romania are getting tired of the bear poking them.
Posted by: whig
They ignore the malevolent intentiobs of Cis Dneister at their peril!
Curious to see if Trans Dneister lasts in such a situation--Romania seems reluctant to poke the bear but Moldova and Romania are getting tired of the bear poking them.
Posted by: whig
They ignore the malevolent intentiobs of Cis Dneister at their peril!
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) at August 16, 2026 12:30 PM (ixS3i)
42
It's easy.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (l4RKn)
~~~~~
Aha!
I knew you were interested in them but didn't know you had invested in the equipment to make them.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (l4RKn)
~~~~~
Aha!
I knew you were interested in them but didn't know you had invested in the equipment to make them.
Posted by: IrishEi?! at August 16, 2026 12:30 PM (3ImbR)
43
One would think that the tens of billions of dollars worth of military surplus left literally next door in Afghanistan a few short years ago would be in country. Why in Hell is there a CIA if a simple arms transfer is beyond their capabilities? Maybe we should get Hillary in on the deal, she was able to arrange Libya/Syria arms transfers.
And a golden opportunity for the Viktor Bout types of this world is going untouched?
Apparently Freedom really is an "Exceptional" attribute.
Posted by: Community Notes
=======
Taliban and Pakistan are pro IRGC for different reasons. Pakistani generals like the double game where they get paid by both sides--mullahs and the Saudis so they win with open trade with mullahs as a portal and they win Saudi money trying to woo them away. Taliban has few friends but can serve as a trade route for Chicom goods and supply while getting a taste of it. They have no love for the US either.
And a golden opportunity for the Viktor Bout types of this world is going untouched?
Apparently Freedom really is an "Exceptional" attribute.
Posted by: Community Notes
=======
Taliban and Pakistan are pro IRGC for different reasons. Pakistani generals like the double game where they get paid by both sides--mullahs and the Saudis so they win with open trade with mullahs as a portal and they win Saudi money trying to woo them away. Taliban has few friends but can serve as a trade route for Chicom goods and supply while getting a taste of it. They have no love for the US either.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:30 PM (E4rtv)
44
Browns, Dolphins and Commanders, had to think whete have I heard those names before?
Posted by: Skip at August 16, 2026 12:30 PM (Ia/+0)
45
Anyone hear from Hamas recently? Hezbollah? The Houthis just got their shit pushed in and went back into their holes.
Hezbollah just attacked Israel again, as I understand it, but they immediately got their shit pushed in. The IDF is very efficient at that sort of thing.
Hezbollah just attacked Israel again, as I understand it, but they immediately got their shit pushed in. The IDF is very efficient at that sort of thing.
Posted by: Ian S. at August 16, 2026 12:31 PM (QZThv)
46
They ignore the malevolent intentiobs of Cis Dneister at their peril!
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot:
=====
Heh.
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot:
=====
Heh.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:31 PM (E4rtv)
47
Treasury Secretary Bessent Says U.S. Set to Deliver “Never Seen Before” Economic Pain on Iran
How much are they paying for burritos?
Treasury Secretary Bessent Says U.S. Set to Deliver “Never Seen Before” Economic Pain on Iran
How much are they paying for burritos?
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at August 16, 2026 12:32 PM (Cqx++)
48
Did you see my comment the other day that Aldi's is selling "Frozen Ice Cubes" that are very large and clear.
The baleful glare from Big Marshmallows is terrible to behold!
Did you see my comment the other day that Aldi's is selling "Frozen Ice Cubes" that are very large and clear.
The baleful glare from Big Marshmallows is terrible to behold!
Posted by: Krebs v Carnot: Epic Battle of the Cycling Stars (TM) at August 16, 2026 12:34 PM (ixS3i)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Fear Me! at August 16, 2026 12:36 PM (ndZc7)
50
>>>It will also take Iran and Hormuz off the front page, since economic warfare and boring escorting of commercial vessels is far less interesting for the hysterical media.
Has the Navy resumed escorting commercial ships through the strait? If so, I missed it.
Project Freedom lasted only one day, I think, before it was halted due to one of the now dozen of times Iran agreed to bargain in good faith, or something like that.
Has the Navy resumed escorting commercial ships through the strait? If so, I missed it.
Project Freedom lasted only one day, I think, before it was halted due to one of the now dozen of times Iran agreed to bargain in good faith, or something like that.
Posted by: one hour sober at August 16, 2026 12:36 PM (J4Dwc)
51
The baleful glare from Big Marshmallows is terrible to behold!
Is there a convention for all the Bigs? Like where Big Otter and Big Anus and Big Marshmallow get together and cackle while rubbing their hands together like George Soros?
Is there a convention for all the Bigs? Like where Big Otter and Big Anus and Big Marshmallow get together and cackle while rubbing their hands together like George Soros?
Posted by: Ian S. at August 16, 2026 12:36 PM (QZThv)
52
***the Mullahs and the IRGC are willing to cause massive damage to the people and the economy of Iran to further their geopolitical goal
---
They are a serious, willing and committed people. The same will is necessary to defeat them. Their un-serious cohorts, also our enemy, will not wise up. We must also deal with them in a serious manner.
---
They are a serious, willing and committed people. The same will is necessary to defeat them. Their un-serious cohorts, also our enemy, will not wise up. We must also deal with them in a serious manner.
Posted by: Braenyard - some Absent Friends are more equal than others _ at August 16, 2026 12:37 PM (C0oZI)
53
With the benefit of 50 years hindsight, from out here in the cheap seats the “Energy Crisis” of the 1970s seems a little bit or even a lot of bit contrived.
The oil shocks, embargos, dollar devaluations really did a number on the American economy and hollowed out the middle class. Never recovered in a lot of ways. Financial arrangements, largely revolving around the US dollar as the world reserve currency and certain defense obligations with respect to the Saudis were not necessarily going to work in the long run.
Crippling our own petroleum industry , coal, gas, and oil was so stupid I can’t help but believe it was deliberate. The U.S.A. has proven reserves enough to last for hundreds of years, and that isn’t even counting Alaska. Careful Surveys were performed in the 1960s. Paired with sensible nuclear, wind, solar, hydroelectric, etc., there is absolutely no reason to GAF about the Strait of Hormuz, get right down to it. Not from an US energy perspective
It is painfully obvious our energy troubles are “self inflicted”. Fucking Congress, EPA, and saboteurs speinkled around in the various bureacracies. The “Global Warming” scam is intended to be the Kill Shot.
The oil shocks, embargos, dollar devaluations really did a number on the American economy and hollowed out the middle class. Never recovered in a lot of ways. Financial arrangements, largely revolving around the US dollar as the world reserve currency and certain defense obligations with respect to the Saudis were not necessarily going to work in the long run.
Crippling our own petroleum industry , coal, gas, and oil was so stupid I can’t help but believe it was deliberate. The U.S.A. has proven reserves enough to last for hundreds of years, and that isn’t even counting Alaska. Careful Surveys were performed in the 1960s. Paired with sensible nuclear, wind, solar, hydroelectric, etc., there is absolutely no reason to GAF about the Strait of Hormuz, get right down to it. Not from an US energy perspective
It is painfully obvious our energy troubles are “self inflicted”. Fucking Congress, EPA, and saboteurs speinkled around in the various bureacracies. The “Global Warming” scam is intended to be the Kill Shot.
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 12:39 PM (oEXy7)
54
Has the Navy resumed escorting commercial ships through the strait? If so, I missed it.
Project Freedom lasted only one day, I think, before it was halted due to one of the now dozen of times Iran agreed to bargain in good faith, or something like that.
Posted by: one hour sober at August 16, 2026 12:36 PM
We did escort duty during the tanker wars in 87-88. IIRC we escorted tankers through the straits for about 12-14 months or so.
Project Freedom lasted only one day, I think, before it was halted due to one of the now dozen of times Iran agreed to bargain in good faith, or something like that.
Posted by: one hour sober at August 16, 2026 12:36 PM
We did escort duty during the tanker wars in 87-88. IIRC we escorted tankers through the straits for about 12-14 months or so.
Posted by: Mister Scott (Formerly GWS) at August 16, 2026 12:39 PM (cpFbA)
55
There are multiple projects underway to create the infrastructure to bypass the chokepoint of Hormuz, and not just pipelines that bypass it.
-
Okay, I read it all this week, and I just want to observe that it's good that production elsewhere is being pursued. It seems to me that it would be easier for Iran to hit pipelines in the region than it is to harass ships since the pipelines are stationary. And eventually, they'll rebuild enough to do that unless we're going to commit to bombing them indefinitely (though that's going to look a lot like the decade of Iraqi no fly zones).
-
Okay, I read it all this week, and I just want to observe that it's good that production elsewhere is being pursued. It seems to me that it would be easier for Iran to hit pipelines in the region than it is to harass ships since the pipelines are stationary. And eventually, they'll rebuild enough to do that unless we're going to commit to bombing them indefinitely (though that's going to look a lot like the decade of Iraqi no fly zones).
Posted by: Methos, inauthentic X-bot account at August 16, 2026 12:40 PM (vSvIl)
56
It is painfully obvious our energy troubles are “self inflicted”. Fucking Congress, EPA, and saboteurs speinkled around in the various bureacracies. The “Global Warming” scam is intended to be the Kill Shot.
Richard Nixon (yes, that one) issued a plan to have the US power grid 100% nuclear by 1990. That would have strangled the global warming panic in its crib, so of course it was quickly killed.
Richard Nixon (yes, that one) issued a plan to have the US power grid 100% nuclear by 1990. That would have strangled the global warming panic in its crib, so of course it was quickly killed.
Posted by: Ian S. at August 16, 2026 12:41 PM (QZThv)
57
I'll be out any day now.
Posted by: 12th Imam In The Well at August 16, 2026 12:41 PM (JM9I6)
58
***There is one goal, and the means justifies the end to an extent that most westerners cannot comprehend.
---
Betting that the Marines understand.
---
Betting that the Marines understand.
Posted by: Braenyard - some Absent Friends are more equal than others _ at August 16, 2026 12:41 PM (C0oZI)
59
Where did the Baby Shah go? Someone go drag him out of whatever casino or brothel he is holed up in and tell him to put down the coke spoon, zip his fly and get to work.
Posted by: Iranians Are Worthless and Weak at August 16, 2026 12:41 PM (/2Ls3)
60
It seems to me that it would be easier for Iran to hit pipelines in the region than it is to harass ships since the pipelines are stationary.
Yes and no - it seems like when they don't have aiming help from the Russians, the IRGC aims about as well as the Palestinians. Which is to say they pretty much don't aim and just yell "Allahu Ackbar!" as a substitute.
Yes and no - it seems like when they don't have aiming help from the Russians, the IRGC aims about as well as the Palestinians. Which is to say they pretty much don't aim and just yell "Allahu Ackbar!" as a substitute.
Posted by: Ian S. at August 16, 2026 12:42 PM (QZThv)
61
I don't remember the day that al Qaeda ceased to be a threat
-
I think that was around the time that "we" decided that they should be running Syria.
-
I think that was around the time that "we" decided that they should be running Syria.
Posted by: Methos, inauthentic X-bot account at August 16, 2026 12:43 PM (vSvIl)
62
26 This war has 30% support. It’s a dead end.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:20 PM (hNsiU)
Go suck your mom's cock.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (l4RKn)
lol ok.
Still doesn’t change the fact this war is yuuugely unpopular and we are going to get killed in November over it. $4+ gas doesn’t play well and you know this.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:20 PM (hNsiU)
Go suck your mom's cock.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo at August 16, 2026 12:22 PM (l4RKn)
lol ok.
Still doesn’t change the fact this war is yuuugely unpopular and we are going to get killed in November over it. $4+ gas doesn’t play well and you know this.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:43 PM (hNsiU)
63
But...it is entirely possible that Iran is on the brink. They do not have the foreign exchange to purchase enough gasoline to run their economy
It has been forgotten in the era of bombs exploding, but Tehran was virtually out of water, and the water table is collapsing because they recklessly pumped all of the water out of the aquifer. Perhaps they were looking for the 13th Iman, IDK. In any case, Iran has enormous, potentially insoluble problems. The fact that they're having to import gas now is just the *chef's kiss*.
It has been forgotten in the era of bombs exploding, but Tehran was virtually out of water, and the water table is collapsing because they recklessly pumped all of the water out of the aquifer. Perhaps they were looking for the 13th Iman, IDK. In any case, Iran has enormous, potentially insoluble problems. The fact that they're having to import gas now is just the *chef's kiss*.
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 12:43 PM (Riz8t)
64
> It is painfully obvious our energy troubles are “self inflicted”. Fucking Congress, EPA, and saboteurs speinkled around in the various bureacracies. The “Global Warming” scam is intended to be the Kill Shot.
Posted by: Common Tater
--
You omitted Jimmy Carter
Posted by: Common Tater
--
You omitted Jimmy Carter
Posted by: Braenyard - some Absent Friends are more equal than others _ at August 16, 2026 12:43 PM (C0oZI)
65
>>We did escort duty during the tanker wars in 87-88. IIRC we escorted tankers through the straits for about 12-14 months or so.
Yes. I flew out of Masirah, Oman in support of escort duty during Operation Earnest Will in 1987.
Yes. I flew out of Masirah, Oman in support of escort duty during Operation Earnest Will in 1987.
Posted by: one hour sober at August 16, 2026 12:44 PM (J4Dwc)
66
I want audio tape of carrion men* groaning for burial.
*woman and children too. Not just Iran, Qatar too.
*woman and children too. Not just Iran, Qatar too.
Posted by: Field Marshal Zhukov at August 16, 2026 12:45 PM (bX16E)
67
"Not much reason to put US troops on an island so that they can be barraged by drones, missiles, etc. and you have to run a gauntlet to deliver supplies to them."
Maybe the US can do it all from the air or using only drones. Or maybe Israeli or Saudi etc. forces can be the ground troops. Even the Ukrainians should agree to such an arrangement, considering how much Russia and Iran helped each other.
Hopefully Trump can outlast the Iranian government and having something that looks like a victory to point at would help with morale (for that portion of the public that is not rooting for a US defeat).
I am not particular about what "victory" looks like, but don't like seeing that the US are losing the propaganda war. Perhaps it can't be helped: if the US had a clear and overwhelming victory, the story would be about the US brutality.
However, you can tell from many previous incidents that a certain part of the public opinion would call the US troops baby killers no matter what happened on the ground.
Maybe the US can do it all from the air or using only drones. Or maybe Israeli or Saudi etc. forces can be the ground troops. Even the Ukrainians should agree to such an arrangement, considering how much Russia and Iran helped each other.
Hopefully Trump can outlast the Iranian government and having something that looks like a victory to point at would help with morale (for that portion of the public that is not rooting for a US defeat).
I am not particular about what "victory" looks like, but don't like seeing that the US are losing the propaganda war. Perhaps it can't be helped: if the US had a clear and overwhelming victory, the story would be about the US brutality.
However, you can tell from many previous incidents that a certain part of the public opinion would call the US troops baby killers no matter what happened on the ground.
Posted by: PG at August 16, 2026 12:46 PM (qln0f)
68
Still doesn’t change the fact this war is yuuugely unpopular and we are going to get killed in November over it.
Ah, it's "we" now. Scogg, you are NOT one of us.
Ah, it's "we" now. Scogg, you are NOT one of us.
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 12:46 PM (Riz8t)
69
It has been forgotten in the era of bombs exploding, but Tehran was virtually out of water, and the water table is collapsing because they recklessly pumped all of the water out of the aquifer. Perhaps they were looking for the 13th Iman, IDK.
There's only 1 Iman and she was with Captain Kirk. The mullahs are gonna be *pissed*.
There's only 1 Iman and she was with Captain Kirk. The mullahs are gonna be *pissed*.
Posted by: Ian S. at August 16, 2026 12:48 PM (QZThv)
70
However, you can tell from many previous incidents that a certain part of the public opinion would call the US troops baby killers no matter what happened on the ground.
Yup. They'd condemn the candy bombers of WWII and the Berlin Airlift.
Yup. They'd condemn the candy bombers of WWII and the Berlin Airlift.
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 12:49 PM (Riz8t)
71
Two contradictory ideas can both be true at the same time:
1. We’ve already won the war
2. They haven’t given up / surrendered (and will never do so)
So what you have here is a political stalemate, not a military situation. The current status quo is likely to last a long time. Gas prices are not particularly high now and maybe the war as an idea is unpopular but it won’t drive a large number of votes in either direction. It’s old news forgotten news for most LIVs
1. We’ve already won the war
2. They haven’t given up / surrendered (and will never do so)
So what you have here is a political stalemate, not a military situation. The current status quo is likely to last a long time. Gas prices are not particularly high now and maybe the war as an idea is unpopular but it won’t drive a large number of votes in either direction. It’s old news forgotten news for most LIVs
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at August 16, 2026 12:49 PM (M+uMR)
72
>>> .... , but don't like seeing that the US are losing the propaganda war. Perhaps it can't be helped: if the US had a clear and overwhelming victory, the story would be about the US brutality.
---
You and your bunk buddies keep on talking to each other.
---
You and your bunk buddies keep on talking to each other.
Posted by: Braenyard - some Absent Friends are more equal than others _ at August 16, 2026 12:50 PM (C0oZI)
73
Mea Culpa. Yes, James Earl Carter, the “Nuclear expert” so conveniently positioned to end nuclear power as a going concern, for all practical purposes. I’m sure it was just a coincidence. Could happen to anyone, really.
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 12:50 PM (oEXy7)
74
>>>Why in Hell is there a CIA if a simple arms transfer is beyond their capabilities?
~~~~~
More than likely they are unwilling. Lots of speculation online that the CIA is being "unhelpful" in arming the Iranian people. Ratcliffe is only one man, and the CIA is filled with dishonorable and self-serving people.
~~~~~
More than likely they are unwilling. Lots of speculation online that the CIA is being "unhelpful" in arming the Iranian people. Ratcliffe is only one man, and the CIA is filled with dishonorable and self-serving people.
Posted by: IrishEi?! at August 16, 2026 12:50 PM (3ImbR)
75
I've been thinking quite about the psychology of the IRGC - what drives them - and I believe we are pushing them into a major missile attack on everything they can hit, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. With time, they could probably get off a pretty good one time shot, although it would bring about their quick destruction as the war would go into maximum overdrive. I'll even say that I think we know exactly what we're pushing them to do.
The situation for the IRGC is intolerable at the moment. The US has finally settled into a low risk strategy that can continue indefinitely at not a great cost to us. Iran, as noted above, is being continually degraded, and while they are itching for something to fight, we aren't giving them anything easy. All of their history leads one to conclude that when they are angry and hurting, they lash out in as big a way as they can.
The only real limitation with what they can do will be how much they actually have left to fight with.
The situation for the IRGC is intolerable at the moment. The US has finally settled into a low risk strategy that can continue indefinitely at not a great cost to us. Iran, as noted above, is being continually degraded, and while they are itching for something to fight, we aren't giving them anything easy. All of their history leads one to conclude that when they are angry and hurting, they lash out in as big a way as they can.
The only real limitation with what they can do will be how much they actually have left to fight with.
Posted by: Tom Servo at August 16, 2026 12:51 PM (edUvp)
76
So what you have here is a political stalemate, not a military situation.
It was mentioned earlier that it would be difficult to protect a pipeline, but I think the era of drones means that it will be relatively easy to guard them, in the sense that we will have overhead munitions loitering 24/7 over Iran, and any aggressive act will result in immediate destruction of the site, and anywhere else we choose as a punishment.
It was mentioned earlier that it would be difficult to protect a pipeline, but I think the era of drones means that it will be relatively easy to guard them, in the sense that we will have overhead munitions loitering 24/7 over Iran, and any aggressive act will result in immediate destruction of the site, and anywhere else we choose as a punishment.
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 12:52 PM (Riz8t)
77
So what you have here is a political stalemate, not a military situation. The current status quo is likely to last a long time.
I don't think it *can* last a long time.
Iran has no economy, no gas, and no water. At some point even if we don't just do the smart thing and start airdropping pallets of guns and ammo things are going to get sporty there.
I don't think it *can* last a long time.
Iran has no economy, no gas, and no water. At some point even if we don't just do the smart thing and start airdropping pallets of guns and ammo things are going to get sporty there.
Posted by: Ian S. at August 16, 2026 12:52 PM (QZThv)
Posted by: MkY at August 16, 2026 12:53 PM (q6tQZ)
79
I am not particular about what "victory" looks like, but don't like seeing that the US are losing the propaganda war.
Posted by: PG
=====
Trump is fighting asymmetric war, not one for public approval fortunately or he would have done a Clinton, sent a few cruise missiles to hit a camel in the butt as they said, and call it victory. Clinton was not around for 9/11 notably as GWB took the blame because Clinton did not end that miserable Bin Ladin's time on earth earlier.
Kharg Island is as useless as tits on a boar hog without tankers going there--it is an export facility. So no tankers, Kharg is a cost, not revenue for the regime. It can be wiped out in a matter of a day or so if needed but it won't cause the IRGC to fall-they have lost that revenue anyway. Same for putting US troops at Qeshm Island or other small islands around the strait of Hormuz. All they become are targets.
War has changed, the US has no need to put boots on the ground to impress people and suffer casualties when you make the entire country of Iran, an open prison for the IRGC. Same as Israel and Gaza--containment is not glorious but it works. See Soviet Union as example.
Posted by: PG
=====
Trump is fighting asymmetric war, not one for public approval fortunately or he would have done a Clinton, sent a few cruise missiles to hit a camel in the butt as they said, and call it victory. Clinton was not around for 9/11 notably as GWB took the blame because Clinton did not end that miserable Bin Ladin's time on earth earlier.
Kharg Island is as useless as tits on a boar hog without tankers going there--it is an export facility. So no tankers, Kharg is a cost, not revenue for the regime. It can be wiped out in a matter of a day or so if needed but it won't cause the IRGC to fall-they have lost that revenue anyway. Same for putting US troops at Qeshm Island or other small islands around the strait of Hormuz. All they become are targets.
War has changed, the US has no need to put boots on the ground to impress people and suffer casualties when you make the entire country of Iran, an open prison for the IRGC. Same as Israel and Gaza--containment is not glorious but it works. See Soviet Union as example.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:53 PM (E4rtv)
80
On the gripping hand, Baby Shah has not called for the uprising yet. I won't give up hope until that is tried and suppressed.
Posted by: toby928(c) at August 16, 2026 12:54 PM (4NO2D)
81
headin' over for a bloody. all caught up.
Posted by: cmeat at August 16, 2026 12:54 PM (Bep7s)
82
The situation for the IRGC is intolerable at the moment. The US has finally settled into a low risk strategy that can continue indefinitely at not a great cost to us. Iran, as noted above, is being continually degraded, and while they are itching for something to fight, we aren't giving them anything easy.
This sums it up neatly. The only way we are defeated is if we defeat ourselves. Unfortunately, the entire left wants exactly that.
This sums it up neatly. The only way we are defeated is if we defeat ourselves. Unfortunately, the entire left wants exactly that.
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 12:54 PM (Riz8t)
83
He isn't terribly wrong CBD with that %30 support, the Marxists are not for it
Posted by: Skip at August 16, 2026 12:54 PM (Ia/+0)
84
Why in Hell is there a CIA if a simple arms transfer is beyond their capabilities?
The CIA, like the FBI, the ATF and their ME counterparts are only good at terrorizing their own civilians and bullying normal people who believe in law and order, even as their domicile is filled with gas and set on fire.
The CIA, like the FBI, the ATF and their ME counterparts are only good at terrorizing their own civilians and bullying normal people who believe in law and order, even as their domicile is filled with gas and set on fire.
Posted by: Zombie David Koresh at August 16, 2026 12:54 PM (/2Ls3)
85
The IRGC has been paying off operatives to sell oil and avoid sanctions through shell companies. One problem, these operative are keeping the money. Billions of dollars have been lost to the IRGC. One guy made off with 11 billion.
Posted by: Ben Had at August 16, 2026 12:55 PM (skcH5)
86
Trump is fighting asymmetric war, not one for public approval fortunately or he would have done a Clinton, sent a few cruise missiles to hit a camel in the butt as they said, and call it victory.
I dunno, it seemed pretty victorious to me.
*adjusts cushions*
I dunno, it seemed pretty victorious to me.
*adjusts cushions*
Posted by: The camel at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM (Riz8t)
87
It was mentioned earlier that it would be difficult to protect a pipeline, but I think the era of drones means that it will be relatively easy to guard them, in the sense that we will have overhead munitions loitering 24/7 over Iran, and any aggressive act will result in immediate destruction of the site, and anywhere else we choose as a punishment.
Posted by: Archimedes
From reports, they are burying them which makes it a helluva lot harder to hit with drones--sand and rock cover can absorb a helluva lot of punishment from what the Iranians are able to do plus it simply pisses of the Gulf nations even more to want the IRGC dead. There is no Arab street uprising for the Persians to their chagrin--turns out Arabs still hate Persians regardless of religion.
Posted by: Archimedes
From reports, they are burying them which makes it a helluva lot harder to hit with drones--sand and rock cover can absorb a helluva lot of punishment from what the Iranians are able to do plus it simply pisses of the Gulf nations even more to want the IRGC dead. There is no Arab street uprising for the Persians to their chagrin--turns out Arabs still hate Persians regardless of religion.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM (E4rtv)
88
Y’all are delusional if you do t think this war is a political death knell for Trump and Republicans in general. Get out of the bubble.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM (hNsiU)
89
One guy made off with 11 billion.
Posted by: Ben Had
No he lives his life looking over his shoulder for "No-neck" Muhammed
Posted by: Ben Had
No he lives his life looking over his shoulder for "No-neck" Muhammed
Posted by: MkY at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM (q6tQZ)
90
85 The IRGC has been paying off operatives to sell oil and avoid sanctions through shell companies. One problem, these operative are keeping the money. Billions of dollars have been lost to the IRGC. One guy made off with 11 billion.
Posted by: Ben Had
=====
No honor among thieves.
Posted by: Ben Had
=====
No honor among thieves.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 12:57 PM (E4rtv)
Posted by: Zombie George Kennan at August 16, 2026 12:57 PM (Riz8t)
92
Ain’t it “interesting” that say, oil and gas development of public lands can be halted indefinitely over a supposedly endangered “rare” cockroach, and requiring endless “Environmental Impact Statements” and lawfare.
But a politician can wipe out thousands of jobs, say construction of a pipeline, with the stroke of a pen.
Where’s the “Human Impact Statement” on that sort of thing? They seem to care more about baitfish or rodents than they do about humanity. Truth be told, of course, they don’t care too much about baitfish or vermin either, they just hate you a whole lot.
But a politician can wipe out thousands of jobs, say construction of a pipeline, with the stroke of a pen.
Where’s the “Human Impact Statement” on that sort of thing? They seem to care more about baitfish or rodents than they do about humanity. Truth be told, of course, they don’t care too much about baitfish or vermin either, they just hate you a whole lot.
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 12:57 PM (oEXy7)
93
Two contradictory ideas can both be true at the same time:
1. We’ve already won the war
2. They haven’t given up / surrendered (and will never do so)
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at August 16, 2026 12:49 PM
We've taken the Marianas and their homeland is naked to our bombers.
1. We’ve already won the war
2. They haven’t given up / surrendered (and will never do so)
Posted by: LinusVanPelt at August 16, 2026 12:49 PM
We've taken the Marianas and their homeland is naked to our bombers.
Posted by: toby928(c) at August 16, 2026 12:57 PM (4NO2D)
94
We have learned recently the Eff Bee Eye abd See Eye A are not for what President Trump wants to do.
Posted by: Skip at August 16, 2026 12:58 PM (Ia/+0)
95
From reports, they are burying them which makes it a helluva lot harder to hit with drones--sand and rock cover can absorb a helluva lot of punishment from what the Iranians are able to do
Sounds like Elon is on to something with The Boring Company.
Sounds like Elon is on to something with The Boring Company.
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 12:58 PM (Riz8t)
96
I think it's quite difficult to figure out how to distribute arms inside Iran without the Basj, the internal security forces, getting their hands on most of them. There's just no organized internal opposition to speak, in large part because the Iranian Regime has been quite efficient at executing anyone who expresses an interest in such a thing. You cannot distribute weapons without a network of people on the ground that you trust, and there is no evidence that such a network exists.
Two high level Israelis in the Shin Bet (iirc) were recently relieved because they were blamed for the failure of a plot to overthrow the Iranian Government quickly. There's a lot of rumors about what this plot might have been, and most sound pretty nuts. If any of those stories were true, then it was the right call to fire them.
Two high level Israelis in the Shin Bet (iirc) were recently relieved because they were blamed for the failure of a plot to overthrow the Iranian Government quickly. There's a lot of rumors about what this plot might have been, and most sound pretty nuts. If any of those stories were true, then it was the right call to fire them.
Posted by: Tom Servo at August 16, 2026 12:58 PM (edUvp)
97
I'm not sure a disinterested CIA is necessarily a bad thing. I'm conflicted as to whether they'd arm the IRGC or the public... if given a chance.
Or arm some other, disinterested 3rd party to further muddy the situation.
Keep them sidelined or task them with disinfo type operations that don't include weapons. Can't trust 'em.
Or arm some other, disinterested 3rd party to further muddy the situation.
Keep them sidelined or task them with disinfo type operations that don't include weapons. Can't trust 'em.
Posted by: Martini Farmer at August 16, 2026 12:59 PM (2Cry5)
98
Y’all are delusional if you do t think this war is a political death knell for Trump and Republicans in general. Get out of the bubble.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM
I'm betting that we increase our advantage in the Senate and hold the House.
We will know in three months.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM
I'm betting that we increase our advantage in the Senate and hold the House.
We will know in three months.
Posted by: toby928(c) at August 16, 2026 12:59 PM (4NO2D)
99
I've been thinking quite about the psychology of the IRGC - what drives them - and I believe we are pushing them into a major missile attack on everything they can hit, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
-
That will be the least surprising October Surprise ever.
-
That will be the least surprising October Surprise ever.
Posted by: Methos, inauthentic X-bot account at August 16, 2026 12:59 PM (vSvIl)
100
I like the idea of airdropping small parcels that contain a Glock, a couple of magazines, and a box of ammo so the oppressed masses can have a way of striking back against tyranny.
Then, after we finish with England, we can send some to the Iranians.
Then, after we finish with England, we can send some to the Iranians.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at August 16, 2026 01:00 PM (0vB2I)
101
Where’s the “Human Impact Statement” on that sort of thing? They seem to care more about baitfish or rodents than they do about humanity. Truth be told, of course, they don’t care too much about baitfish or vermin either, they just hate you a whole lot.
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 12:57 PM (oEXy7)
This is radio clash tearing up the seven veils
This is radio clash please save us, not the whales...
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 12:57 PM (oEXy7)
This is radio clash tearing up the seven veils
This is radio clash please save us, not the whales...
Posted by: Same As It Ever Was at August 16, 2026 01:00 PM (/2Ls3)
102
whig:
Same with Pickaxe Mountain. It can be isolated without having to demolish it completely, even if that were possible.
Air supremacy is a wonderful thing.
Same with Pickaxe Mountain. It can be isolated without having to demolish it completely, even if that were possible.
Air supremacy is a wonderful thing.
Posted by: one hour sober at August 16, 2026 01:00 PM (J4Dwc)
103
Then, after we finish with England, we can send some to the Iranians.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy
Heh
Nice
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy
Heh
Nice
Posted by: MkY at August 16, 2026 01:00 PM (q6tQZ)
104
Then, after we finish with England, we can send some to the Iranians.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at August 16, 2026 01:00 PM
Heyoh!
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at August 16, 2026 01:00 PM
Heyoh!
Posted by: toby928(c) at August 16, 2026 01:01 PM (4NO2D)
105
Tehran Tim is in full force. Ghalibaf is assuring the masses that they have won the war both militarily and diplomatically. The amount of trade with all partners, even China, has fallen off over 30%.
Posted by: Ben Had at August 16, 2026 01:03 PM (skcH5)
106
Is the price of pistachios on the rise?
Posted by: toby928(c) at August 16, 2026 01:04 PM (4NO2D)
107
Same with Pickaxe Mountain. It can be isolated without having to demolish it completely, even if that were possible.
Air supremacy is a wonderful thing.
I've been thinking about that. Why couldn't we just put MOABs connected to motion sensors outside the entrances to PM. Anyone tries to enter or leave, or monkey with the bomb, and kablooie!
Air supremacy is a wonderful thing.
I've been thinking about that. Why couldn't we just put MOABs connected to motion sensors outside the entrances to PM. Anyone tries to enter or leave, or monkey with the bomb, and kablooie!
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 01:04 PM (Riz8t)
108
Y’all are delusional if you do t think this war is a political death knell for Trump and Republicans in general. Get out of the bubble.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM
If folks want to vote for the Iranian nuclear program, I suppose they can do that, but I will be less sympathetic when it's used against you.
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 12:56 PM
If folks want to vote for the Iranian nuclear program, I suppose they can do that, but I will be less sympathetic when it's used against you.
Posted by: Methos, inauthentic X-bot account at August 16, 2026 01:05 PM (vSvIl)
109
Any word on Cuba?
Posted by: Pudinhead at August 16, 2026 01:06 PM (KGj36)
110
>>>when you make the entire country of Iran, an open prison for the IRGC. ... --containment is not glorious but it works. ...
Posted by: whig
---
I read the word blockade yesterday.
The old time word, siege, is so romantic.
Posted by: whig
---
I read the word blockade yesterday.
The old time word, siege, is so romantic.
Posted by: Braenyard - some Absent Friends are more equal than others _ at August 16, 2026 01:06 PM (C0oZI)
111
That of course supports one clear strategy...the total destruction of the Mullahs and the IRGC.
====
The Bottom Line
====
The Bottom Line
Posted by: San Franpsycho at August 16, 2026 01:06 PM (JvZF+)
112
99 I've been thinking quite about the psychology of the IRGC - what drives them - and I believe we are pushing them into a major missile attack on everything they can hit, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
That will be the last thing they ever hit....
That will be the last thing they ever hit....
Posted by: It's me donna at August 16, 2026 01:06 PM (FtULh)
113
It will be fascination to find out one day what the truth was about the story of the Kurds and weapons for Iran. I have no doubt that the claim that we gave some Kurdish arms dealers weapons and they ran off with them is a false cover story, because our people would need to have been the biggest idiots in the world to just hand weapons to some shadowy middle easter arms merchants with no down payment.
Putting together fragments of stories, it seems likely that what really happened is that the US and Israel were working to put together a Kurdish force that would invade northwest Iran and link up with local Kurdish forces and cause great trouble for the IRGC. But Erdogan found about it, and pitched a behind the scenes shit fit about any attempt to create a united Kurdish Army, so Trump dropped those plans to appease him, and no other plans were ever put in its place.
This could be what Trump was alluding to when he said at the Ankara summit, "Erdogan could have joined this war, but thanks to my personal talks with him, he chose to stay out of it." That statement is hard to explain any other way, since Erdogan was never a great ally of the Iranians.
Putting together fragments of stories, it seems likely that what really happened is that the US and Israel were working to put together a Kurdish force that would invade northwest Iran and link up with local Kurdish forces and cause great trouble for the IRGC. But Erdogan found about it, and pitched a behind the scenes shit fit about any attempt to create a united Kurdish Army, so Trump dropped those plans to appease him, and no other plans were ever put in its place.
This could be what Trump was alluding to when he said at the Ankara summit, "Erdogan could have joined this war, but thanks to my personal talks with him, he chose to stay out of it." That statement is hard to explain any other way, since Erdogan was never a great ally of the Iranians.
Posted by: Tom Servo at August 16, 2026 01:08 PM (edUvp)
114
Let us remember that on July 4, 1863, The South lost the Civil War when Vicksburg surrendered. The Confederacy was now split in two; the Union now had complete logistics superiority with the Mississippi blockade removed.
There was still much unpleasantness to come.
There was still much unpleasantness to come.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at August 16, 2026 01:08 PM (0vB2I)
Posted by: Archimedes at August 16, 2026 01:09 PM (Riz8t)
116
I read the word blockade yesterday.
The old time word, siege, is so romantic.
Posted by: Braenyard
=======
Blockade has naval connotations which is what this is primarily whereas siege is normally land based. But I get your meaning.
The old time word, siege, is so romantic.
Posted by: Braenyard
=======
Blockade has naval connotations which is what this is primarily whereas siege is normally land based. But I get your meaning.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 01:12 PM (E4rtv)
117
JFK famously characterized it as a “Quarantine” during his prime time October ‘62 address to the American people revealing the (Soviet) Cuban missile debacle, in lieu of using “Blockade”, because the latter has a specific legal meaning, considered an act of War by international law. So “Quarantine” it was.
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 01:12 PM (oEXy7)
118
Afternoon all, thx CBD.
The IRGC is as CBD said, dug in like ticks. Only action against them by both us (bombing and special forces) and the Iranian people will get rid of them. The CIA, one would think, should have a strategy in a folder somewhere to help the Iranian people in such a situation. Of course success for America and/or Trump might not be in the CIA 's interests
The IRGC is as CBD said, dug in like ticks. Only action against them by both us (bombing and special forces) and the Iranian people will get rid of them. The CIA, one would think, should have a strategy in a folder somewhere to help the Iranian people in such a situation. Of course success for America and/or Trump might not be in the CIA 's interests
Posted by: Smell the Glove at August 16, 2026 01:13 PM (xCuiu)
119
Remember, this is all a massive distraction from the UAP files.
Posted by: Duncanthrax at August 16, 2026 01:13 PM (0sNs1)
120
There was still much unpleasantness to come.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at August 16, 2026 01:08 PM (0vB2I)
in the US Civil War, WW1, and WW2, the greatest number of casualties came in the last years of those wars, after the overall outcome was already decided.
There gets to be kind of a "fuck it, I'm all in now" attitude that sets in to both sides, and the carnage becomes epic.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at August 16, 2026 01:08 PM (0vB2I)
in the US Civil War, WW1, and WW2, the greatest number of casualties came in the last years of those wars, after the overall outcome was already decided.
There gets to be kind of a "fuck it, I'm all in now" attitude that sets in to both sides, and the carnage becomes epic.
Posted by: Tom Servo at August 16, 2026 01:13 PM (edUvp)
121
OT- Obama to tell the "brothers" to vote for Muslim and DSA radical El-Sayed in MI. From "Hot Air" site:
https://tinyurl.com/ypykmn3d
https://tinyurl.com/ypykmn3d
Posted by: FenelonSpoke at August 16, 2026 01:15 PM (y8wRt)
122
114 Let us remember that on July 4, 1863, The South lost the Civil War when Vicksburg surrendered. The Confederacy was now split in two; the Union now had complete logistics superiority with the Mississippi blockade removed.
There was still much unpleasantness to come.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy
Not really the same thing. North could have slowly strangled the South via a blockade as the South could not eat cotton like Iranians cannot eat oil but chose the the faster way of invasion.
You invade on the ground, the enemy always has its say--but at sea or in the air they have been shut up. On the ground, Iran is pretty much an open air prison with increasingly restive inmates guarded by a relatively few prison guards and the wardens are not popular.
There was still much unpleasantness to come.
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy
Not really the same thing. North could have slowly strangled the South via a blockade as the South could not eat cotton like Iranians cannot eat oil but chose the the faster way of invasion.
You invade on the ground, the enemy always has its say--but at sea or in the air they have been shut up. On the ground, Iran is pretty much an open air prison with increasingly restive inmates guarded by a relatively few prison guards and the wardens are not popular.
Posted by: whig at August 16, 2026 01:16 PM (E4rtv)
123
The first thing Bruce Catton seems to convey to the reader in his books on the Civil War, everyone expected it to be a short conflict. Why, those Rebs will get put down at Manassas and the boys will be home by Christmas. Well, OK, maybe not but by the Spring for sure. Well Fall at the earliest, then.
Okay, by 1862 for certain. And it just kept going and going. Year after year.
Okay, by 1862 for certain. And it just kept going and going. Year after year.
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 01:16 PM (oEXy7)
124
OT: one of the things I like about this site is the language. The other day someone said "malarkey" and I think I used it every other sentence the rest of the day.
Up above, I think at 76, Archimedes said "loitering" and that will definitely be my word for today.
Up above, I think at 76, Archimedes said "loitering" and that will definitely be my word for today.
Posted by: Wenda at August 16, 2026 01:17 PM (NSpAF)
125
Aid from the Persian people would follow our pin-point drop of armaments. Very hard to believe we can surgically take out hostile leadership but not accurately arm friendlies. We will pay dearly for this cowardly fear of arming a new hostile regime. Any resistance will be anti-shia, and that's better than that death cult.
Posted by: Pascal at August 16, 2026 01:17 PM (IPQ9m)
126
Anyone hear from Hamas recently? Hezbollah? The Houthis just got their shit pushed in and went back into their holes.
=====
Yes, both Hamas and Hezbollah have launched recent attacks in Lebanon and Gaza.
=====
Yes, both Hamas and Hezbollah have launched recent attacks in Lebanon and Gaza.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at August 16, 2026 01:18 PM (JvZF+)
127
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 01:12 PM (oEXy7)
==================
FDR used that term, too. In 1937.
Posted by: Common Tater at August 16, 2026 01:12 PM (oEXy7)
==================
FDR used that term, too. In 1937.
Posted by: Blonde Morticia at August 16, 2026 01:18 PM (XJ22o)
128
folks want to vote for the Iranian nuclear program, I suppose they can do that, but I will be less sympathetic when it's used against you.
Posted by: Methos, inauthentic X-bot account at August 16, 2026 01:05 PM (vSvIl)
The nuclear program that Trump assured us all was destroyed in 2025?
How do people still fall for this shit?
Posted by: Methos, inauthentic X-bot account at August 16, 2026 01:05 PM (vSvIl)
The nuclear program that Trump assured us all was destroyed in 2025?
How do people still fall for this shit?
Posted by: Reality Check at August 16, 2026 01:18 PM (hNsiU)
129
Yes, both Hamas and Hezbollah have launched recent attacks in Lebanon and Gaza.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at August 16, 2026 01:18 PM (JvZF+
And they both paid for it...
Yes, both Hamas and Hezbollah have launched recent attacks in Lebanon and Gaza.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at August 16, 2026 01:18 PM (JvZF+
And they both paid for it...
Posted by: It's me donna at August 16, 2026 01:18 PM (FtULh)
130
=======
Blockade has naval connotations which is what this is primarily whereas siege is normally land based. But I get your meaning.
Posted by: whig
---
Blowing up rail bridges and other land lines to China and parts north brings it in line with the definition.
Blockade has naval connotations which is what this is primarily whereas siege is normally land based. But I get your meaning.
Posted by: whig
---
Blowing up rail bridges and other land lines to China and parts north brings it in line with the definition.
Posted by: Braenyard - some Absent Friends are more equal than others _ at August 16, 2026 01:19 PM (C0oZI)
131
The troll is seriously wishcasting.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at August 16, 2026 01:19 PM (JvZF+)
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