In recent developments, tensions continue to rise as Houthi militants target cargo ships in the Middle East. Adding to the growing concerns, an Iranian commander has reportedly threatened to shut down the Mediterranean Sea. Moreover, over 100 U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria have come under attack by Iranian-backed militias.
Former Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, expressed his thoughts on the situation, stating that the Iranian regime often employs this kind of fighting strategy. Pompeo highlighted how the Iranians go after Americans while the U.S. responds to their proxy forces, allowing them to fight without putting themselves at risk. He emphasized that a weak administration like the Biden administration increases the risk of such attacks.
Regarding the threat of shutting down the Red Sea, Pompeo recognized the difficulty of accomplishing this task through proxies. However, he pointed out that by making the risk of traveling through the Red Sea high enough, commercial ships may choose to divert their routes, resulting in increased costs for the United States. Pompeo emphasized that if the United States fails to effectively push back against Iranian aggression by not responding to attacks and taking defensive measures, the risk will only escalate.
Switching gears, a recent report revealed a secret U.S. effort to track, hide, and surveil a Chinese spy balloon. The report stated that initially, the intention was to study the balloon and let it pass over without disclosing its existence to the public. It also suggested that the Biden administration either wanted to limit the amount of intelligence the balloon could gather or was embarrassed by the entire situation.
Pompeo weighed in, acknowledging that there are legitimate reasons for intelligence agencies not to disclose certain information to the public in order to ensure national security. However, he expressed doubts regarding their specific reasons in this case. Pompeo believed that the decision to withhold information about the spy balloon was more likely due to embarrassment, as the authorities allowed this potentially dangerous activity to occur over U.S. airspace. He criticized the lack of action taken since the incident, highlighting the failure to address the violation of American sovereignty.
These recent events highlight the ongoing challenges faced in the Middle East and the complex dynamics between Iran, its proxies, and the United States. As tensions escalate, it remains crucial for the U.S. to adopt a strong and proactive stance to protect its interests and maintain regional stability.
