Allegations of Retaliatory Firings - Former DOJ official Michael Gordon alleges he was unjustly fired after prosecuting January 6th rioters, suggesting political retaliation [1][2] - Gordon's termination occurred despite consistently receiving "outstanding" performance reviews, the highest possible rating [3][4] - The termination letter cited Article 2 of the Constitution, raising concerns about the justification for the firing [2] Concerns within the Department of Justice - Gordon's former colleagues express fear that political considerations may influence prosecutorial decisions [10][11] - There is worry among DOJ staff about potential repercussions for handling politically sensitive cases [11] - A former colleague's email warns against fear influencing decisions and encourages upholding independent thought [10] Prosecutorial Discretion and Independence - Prosecutors are expected to follow evidence without fear or favor, but political influence could compromise this principle [11] - While some cases are assigned, prosecutors exercise discretion in pursuing cases, subject to supervisory approval [11] - The DOJ is described as an institution dedicated to justice and upholding the law, not merely securing convictions [11][12] Support and Motivation - Gordon has received overwhelming support from colleagues within the DOJ, FBI, DEA, and Homeland Security [9] - Individuals choose to work at the DOJ for a sense of mission and the importance of the work, despite potentially lower pay compared to private firms [11] - The DOJ emphasizes doing the right thing for the right reasons and maintaining integrity in all actions [12]

Geopolitical Assessment - The operation was successful in execution, with aircraft delivering GBU 57 and submarine-launched lambs offshore [1] - A good battle damage assessment is needed, but may be incomplete until inspectors are on the ground [3] - Potential Iranian responses include using Shia militia groups in Iraq, launching missiles against U S forces in the Middle East, targeting American officials globally, or disrupting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz [4][5] - Iran may calibrate its response to satisfy domestic needs without provoking a significant escalation from the US [7] - The effectiveness of Iran's chain of command is uncertain, potentially explaining the delay in response [9][10] Nuclear Concerns - There are concerns about Iran's potential to reignite efforts to achieve nuclear status, especially with 400 kilograms of enriched uranium missing [11] - Iran possesses approximately 900 pounds (转换后约 408 公斤) of 60% enriched uranium, close to the level needed for nuclear weapons, and its location is unknown [11][12] - Even if Iranian infrastructure is destroyed, it may be rebuilt over time, potentially energizing their nuclear ambitions [12][13] Deterrence and Regional Security - Deterrence is based on capability and willingness, with the US demonstrating its willingness to act [14][15] - A clear message is important for deterring disruption of waterways like the Strait of Hormuz [17] - Potential responses to Iranian aggression in the Strait of Hormuz include targeting the Iranian navy, mine layers, swarm boats, and missile batteries [17][18] - The US involvement is contingent on Iran's response, with a preference for negotiation between Iran and Israel, including a return to the nonproliferation regime [20][22]

RUSI director general Rachel Ellehuus tells Francine Lacqua Iran is "making calculations about how any retaliation plays on their economy and regime survival" following US strikes on its nuclear facilities over the weekend. ...

Geopolitical Concerns & Defense Stocks - Defense stocks are rallying due to rising geopolitical concerns [1] - The situation's containment depends on Iran's retaliation capabilities, specifically regarding ballistic missiles [2] - Israel's ongoing attacks face challenges in penetrating deep Iranian sites, raising questions about US assistance [2][3] Iran's Nuclear Program & Political Ramifications - The US administration previously offered Iran a deal to enrich uranium under Arab states' supervision, but talks collapsed due to Iran's refusal [7][8] - There's unified political support (excluding the far left) for Israel's defense against Iran and preventing Iran's nuclear weapon development [6][7] Potential Regime Change in Iran - Significant opposition exists against the current regime in Iran, which is already facing economic difficulties and isolation [9] - The possibility of regime change hinges on political support and encouragement from the US and Israel towards Iranian opposition groups [10]

Moments ago, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel's very survival. This operation will continue for as many days as it takes to remove this threat. Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu making good on his repeated threats to strike Iran and try to cripple its nuclear program.Israel is now bracing for retaliation after Iran's news agency said the attack killed several people, including the head of the country's Islamic Revolution G ...