Staff Reports
In Washington, the political drama is unfolding as President Trump keeps a close eye on the turmoil in Iran. With protests rocking the nation and the Iranian regime’s futile attempts to silence dissidents by literally shutting down the internet, it is safe to say things are far from “under control,” despite what Iranian officials might claim. It’s almost laughable how the regime thinks they can just toggle the internet like a light switch without dire consequences. Given the economic strain such an action places on Iran, something tells us the regime’s overconfidence might just backfire spectacularly.
As Iran struggles, President Trump’s administration is preparing to make its move. The President has promised a forceful response if violence crosses a “red line.” You would think 500 lives lost would have done that already. Regardless, the U.S. administration is ready to roll out a strategy that includes everything from military measures to secretive cyber attacks. Military might isn’t the only card up Trump’s sleeve, and the Pentagon isn’t leaping into action without a clear directive. It’s the calculated patience that any seasoned leader would appreciate, or at least a former reality TV star who knows how to build suspense.
Interestingly, the Iranian regime seems eager to sit at the negotiating table. Perhaps the pressure from the protests or the dwindling economy has them reconsidering their stance. While there’s chatter about potential military targets, the administration has far more up its sleeve than Iran might expect. President Trump may have perfected the art of the deal, but he’s also well-versed in the art of ambiguity—keeping them guessing without showing all of his cards. After all, a magician never reveals his tricks, and neither does a President contemplating geopolitical chess.
While talks of a meeting continue, the administration is transparently serious. There are whispers of covert technological options to restore internet access for Iranian protesters—an idea that might make the regime’s skin crawl. These measures have been publicly discussed, sending a clear signal to Iran that America means business. Perhaps such openness makes the regime squirm, knowing they are under the global radar and underestimating the resolve of a nation famous for firing warning shots across the bow.
And as if this geopolitical soap opera weren’t enough, the President is also casting his eyes toward Cuba, no stranger to anti-American sentiment. While the Cuban leadership tries to sound tough and self-reliant, the reality is that their economy is hanging by a thread. The administration sees an opportunity to forge a new path, one where Cuba could potentially transform from foe to ally. If there’s anything to be learned from the administration’s handling of Iran, Cuba should certainly take heed: when Trump says he wants to make a deal, you’d best be ready to grab the pen.
