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FISA and Iran

Two unrelated issues; the first is the passage (every two years) of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978.  Trump is against this law and said so clearly and eloquently on numerous occasions.   It is a fundamental tool of the US foreign spying operations, and Trump wanted it revoked.   Trump did not get his way, and in a non-partisan vote, the law passed by the House of Representatives and is on its way to the Senate, there is little doubt that the law will be approved there too.   A real blow to Trump, who had actively and strongly argued against the law.

The second is that this morning, Iran seized an Israeli-related ship in the Gulf of Hormuz.   This is the first direct confrontation between Israel and Iran in a few years, both nations have hated each other for nearly 70 years which presents Israel with an incredible opportunity to change the narrative.   Iran is actively attacking Israel, effectively declaring war (not exactly but close).  The current narrative is that Israel is the only bad guy in the region, why Egypt is getting a free pass in Gaza is unclear, but the 14 km border is still heavily fortified and closed by the Egyptian army.    

The attack against Israel's interests is an escalation, the Americans will try to stay away, but it may be difficult, especially after Biden's recent visit.  Still, America sees no value added to being dragged into this war, they will probably support Israel with military aid, but will certainly not join the fight if they can avoid it. Iran has been looking for a fight, and it dreads the idea of an alliance between Saudi Arabia and Israel.  For some unclear reason, Iran has decided that a preemptive strike against Israel is a good idea, probably because Saudi Arabia had finally decided to side with Israel.  

Just two bits of interesting news   

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