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вторник, 21 апреля 2026 г.

In the Same Trench: An American Reflection for Yom Hazikaron, 5786

By Winfield Myers ● Apr 21, 2026

Smart Brevity^® count: 7.5 mins...1981 words

Gregg Roman reflects on Yom HaZikaron, Israel Memorial Day, when Israelis commemorate those who have died in military service and in acts of terrorism. Since last year, 174 soldiers of the IDF and 79 Israeli civilians have been added to the roll of the murdered. But this year, he writes, the commemorative silence also marked the deaths of 13 American service members killed in action in Operation Epic Fury. While they did not die in Israel’s uniform, they died in Israel’s war, which had become, by February 28, America’s war too. We should not forget, he says, that Americans have always been in this fight, from the shores of Tripoli in 1805 to today.

Also in this issue: Erfan Fard, Khaled Alyemany, and Mardo Soghom on Iran; Giulio Meotti on the U.N.’s perfidy; Jonathan Spyer on the IDF in Lebanon; Aaron J. Shuster on disarming terrorist groups; and Michael Rubin on the U.S. Africa Command’s correct moves in Libya.

In the Same Trench: An American Reflection for Yom Hazikaron, 5786

Since last Yom HaZikaron, one hundred seventy-four soldiers of the IDF have been buried beneath the small flags at Mount Herzl and in cemeteries from Metula to Be’er Sheva. Seventy-nine civilians have...

By: Gregg Roman

Amidst the sirens of Yom HaZikaron, the shared sacrifices of Israeli and American soldiers reveal a poignant unity against common threats.

A year of profound loss: This year saw 174 IDF soldiers and 79 civilians lost, with sirens signaling real threats over Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa.

The silence now stretches across the Atlantic, mourning American servicemen who perished fighting in the same cause.

American lives intertwined: Thirteen U.S. service members were killed in Operation Epic Fury, cementing America’s involvement in Israel’s conflict.

From Des Moines to Sacramento, their sacrifices echo those of their Israeli counterparts, standing in the same trench.

Historical ties and new realities: They are in it together now. They have been in it together, in one form or another, since Tripoli.

In a few hours the flags at Mount Herzl will climb back up the poles, and the country will pivot into its independence, and another year will begin on the long clock that Yom HaZikaron keeps.
By the time that clock comes around again, the silence will have to be long enough to say so. One minute, once a year, is not much to ask.

To read the full article, click here.

The Revolutionary Guard Factions Now Competing to Rule Iran

Mohammad Baqer Zolghadr, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, headed the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ irregular warfare division. Tasnim News Agency, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Com...

By: Erfan Fard

The war involving the U.S. and Israel has left Iran’s leadership fragmented, with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei’s whereabouts and condition unknown.

Why it matters: The absence of clear leadership has plunged Iran into uncertainty, affecting both regional stability and global diplomatic efforts.

The regime’s communication, supposedly from Khamenei, raises questions about its authenticity and the true power dynamics within Iran.

Power dynamics within the Guard: Analysts mostly agree that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) now holds sway, but internal factions complicate their control.

Identifying the primary power centers is crucial to understanding which factions can effectively engage in negotiations or pose obstructions.

Factional rivalries intensify: As leadership uncertainty grows, factions vie for influence, impacting Iran’s strategic direction.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, leading one faction, positions himself as a key negotiator with the U.S., while others, like Zolghadr and Vahidi, lean towards hardline stances.

This raises doubt as to whether Washington’s partners in engagement can deliver and also should raise concerns about spoiler factions targeting the United States, Israel, and rival Iranians even if those regime officials negotiating with Trump are sincere.

To read the full article, click here.

Secure Your Spot: The 2026 Middle East Forum Policy Conference

Middle East Forum Washington, D.C., Conference May 19-21, 2026.

Join us in Washington, D.C., from May 19-21, 2026, for the Middle East Forum's exclusive Policy Conference as we navigate the turbulent aftermath of the Iran war and its regional shockwaves. This private gathering will tackle today's most pressing geopolitical challenges, featuring in-depth analyses of Turkey's shifting influence and the vital future of the U.S.-Israel relationship. We will also confront the rising threat of domestic Islamists, equipping attendees with the strategic insights needed to counter these interconnected issues.

Click here to secure your spot for America the Unpredictable and access our special hotel block before the May 1st RSVP deadline.

ICYMI: Iran’s Decentralized Military Doctrine with Alexander Greenberg

MEF Podcasat with Alexander Greenberg: Iran's Decentralized Military Doctrine

Iran’s “mosaic defense” doctrine disperses authority across autonomous units that can continue operating and launching attacks even if central command collapses, prioritizing endurance over decisive victory. This decentralization complicates coordination, weakens overall effectiveness, and creates persistent but limited threats, including missile strikes, regional instability, and proxy or terrorist activity. Leadership fragmentation, operational improvisation, and lack of strategic coherence further undermine the regime, while sustained military pressure combined with other tools offers the most viable path to degrading its capabilities.

Alexander Greenberg is a historian of Iran and a geopolitical and intelligence analyst who served in the research department of the IDF intelligence branch (Aman) between 2005 and 2010 and remains a major in the IDF reserves. He is a research fellow at the Jerusalem Institute for Security and Strategy, where he manages the research program on Iran’s regional policies. He holds a B.A. and an M.A. in Arabic language and literature & Middle East and Islamic studies from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

To watch the full podcast, click here.

How Iran Remapped the Arab Political Mind

A Palestinian man holds an RPG in Tehran, Iran, on International Quds Day on April 5, 2024. Shutterstock

By: Khaled Alyemany

For decades, the Palestinian cause has served as Iran’s tool to spread influence, positioning itself as a defender while undermining Arab sovereignty.

Hezbollah’s grip on Lebanon: Iran has equipped Hezbollah to act as a state within a state, manipulating Lebanon’s political framework.

The group has blocked presidential candidates not aligned with its interests, exemplifying Tehran’s reach.

Militia power in Iraq and Yemen: Iran-trained militias like Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq and the Houthis destabilize governments, loyal to Tehran’s directives.

These factions thwart peace efforts, aligning with Iranian policies and obstructing independent governance.

Shifting allegiances in the Gulf: Gulf nations, tired of Iran’s ideological façade, are forging new paths to protect their sovereignty.

By engaging in diplomatic normalization, countries like the UAE and Bahrain strengthen their influence while countering Iran’s ambitions.

To read the full article, click here.

Iran Warns on Hormuz as Ghalibaf Says Major Gaps Remain

Mohammad Bagher-Ghalbaf in a file photo. Hamed Malekpour, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

By: Mardo Soghom

Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf highlighted ongoing divisions with the U.S., citing “significant gaps” as negotiations continue amidst heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Negotiation hurdles: Ghalibaf admits to persisting disagreements on nuclear issues and regional security, maintaining Iran’s firm stance.

The talks aim for mutual understanding, yet Iran’s principles remain non-negotiable.

Domestic reactions: Hardliners criticize the negotiating team, accusing them of treason, while factions within Iran’s leadership show varied responses.

Pro-Revolutionary Guard media supports Ghalibaf’s tough negotiation style, reflecting internal power dynamics.

Tactical posturing: Ghalibaf’s comments signal readiness to confront U.S. actions, including naval maneuvers, as part of a broader strategic narrative.

His assertive approach, praised by Iranian outlets, aims to bolster Iran’s negotiating position while acknowledging U.S. military power.

To read the full article, click here.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions Escalate Despite Trump’s Upbeat Tone

President Donald Trump in a file photo. Shutterstock

By: Mardo Soghom

President Trump’s optimistic remarks about Iran contrasted sharply with tensions when merchant vessels came under fire in the Strait of Hormuz.

Ceasefire collapse: Iran reinstated military control over the Strait, reversing an earlier reopening amidst U.S. blockades.

This response highlights the fragility of negotiations and the potential diplomatic embarrassment for Iran.

Uranium deal backlash: Trump’s hint at Iran surrendering enriched uranium sparked outrage among Iranian hardliners.

The internal backlash includes calls for arrest and execution of negotiators, highlighting political tensions.

Strategic messaging tactics: Iran’s familiar “good cop/bad cop” approach balances diplomacy with hardliner posturing.

Trump’s strategy may have been to put Ghalibaf in an embarrassing position by claiming what amounted to be an almost complete Iranian surrender.

To read the full article, click here.

The United Nations and Western Relativists Are Natural Allies of Iran’s Executioners

In 2025, Iran officially carried out 1,630 death sentences, the highest number ever. Shutterstock

By: Giulio Meotti

The United Nation’s decision to appoint Iran, a regime notorious for human rights violations, to committees on human rights and counter-terrorism is nothing short of scandalous.

Iran’s shocking influence: A regime that brutally oppresses dissidents and finances terrorism now has a say in global human rights policies.

This appointment makes a mockery of the U.N.’s supposed commitment to human rights.

Western hypocrisy exposed: While the U.S. called out Iran’s atrocities, countries like Canada and the U.K. shamefully backed its appointment, ignoring Tehran’s blood-stained record.

This is a betrayal of universal human rights principles in favor of appeasing tyrannical regimes.

Silencing dissent at the U.N.: Authoritarian regimes now control the U.N.‘s Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO), threatening to stifle voices that expose abuses.

Genuine human rights organizations risk being sidelined in favor of regime-backed puppets.

To read the full article, click here.

In Lebanon, Israel Defense Forces Set Position in Ait a Shaab

An Israeli airstrike on a village in South Lebanon; April 06, 2026. Shutterstock

By: Jonathan Spyer

The IDF’s 162nd Division is actively engaged in a newly established buffer zone in southern Lebanon, aiming to protect Israeli border communities from Hezbollah threats.

Buffer zone dynamics: Positioned 15 kilometers north of Israel’s border, the zone seeks to prevent Hezbollah’s anti-tank missile attacks.

Despite initial fierce resistance, the IDF has secured the area, though strategic challenges remain unresolved.

Historical echoes and new tactics: The buffer zone recalls Israel’s previous “security zone” but employs depopulation and lighter military presence to deter guerrilla warfare.

Pro-Hezbollah villages are depopulated, contrasting with intact Christian areas, aiming to cut insurgent-civilian ties.

Ongoing tactical race: Few believe that the fighting in March and April will be the last round.

The tactical race for advantage between the sides continues in the rubble-strewn border villages and further north.
The larger strategic issue, meanwhile, remains far from resolution.

To read the full article, click here.

Disarmament Without Enforcement

Palestinian Hamas militants take part in an anti-Israel demonstration. Shutterstock

By: Aaron J. Shuster

Recent proposals for Gaza demand Hamas disarmament, yet the group refuses to comply, questioning to whom they should surrender weapons.

Hamas’s firm refusal: Despite formal demands, Hamas openly rejects disarmament, maintaining its military capabilities without enforcement.

The lack of a compliance mechanism leaves the demand as mere rhetoric, not action.

Lebanon’s disarmament dilemma: U.N. Resolution 1701 calls for Hezbollah’s disarmament, yet the group remains a powerful non-state actor.

Regional support for disarmament remains symbolic, lacking the will or means to enforce it.

Policy of wishful thinking: International disarmament demands survive on paper, but armed groups retain power, increasing conflict risk.

Without enforcement, these demands offer a false sense of progress while ignoring on-the-ground realities.

To read the full article, click here.

Africa Command Shows the Way in Libya

Libyan joint forces soldiers march across the parade grounds at the opening ceremony of Flintlock 2026 in Sirte, Libya on April 14, 2026. Since 2005, Flintlock has served as U.S. Africa Command’s prem...

By: Michael Rubin

While headlines focus on diplomatic stumbles, the Pentagon quietly advances global military collaboration through exercises like Flintlock in Africa.

Flintlock in Ivory Coast and Libya: This year’s Flintlock exercise highlights Ivory Coast’s stability and Libya’s shift from chaos to opportunity.

Sirte, Libya, symbolizes a new reality, contrary to past propaganda, showcasing a balanced alignment away from Russian influence.

The Haftar dilemma: While the U.S. State Department supports the Tripoli government, Flintlock’s inclusion of both Libyan militaries suggests a more pragmatic approach.

Cooperation between Benghazi and Tripoli militaries can outpace ideological agendas that hinder unity.

A call for strategic alignment: Trump envoy Massad Boulos is urged to engage both Libyan military chiefs, moving beyond expired political mandates.