Elaine

The United States of America must always be prepared to use overwhelming military force when necessary to defend our national security interests and protect Americans at home and abroad. And, a President should have the latitude to make decisions to that end, but only to the extent that those decisions are also consistent with the inherent authority of a Commander-in-Chief under the U. S. Constitution and the provisions of the War Powers Resolution. To date, I have supported the President’s decisions relating to the Iranian conflict because they were consistent with these authorities and the ultimate goal of protecting national security interests. At the same time, what sets America apart is not only our strength, but how we use it. Our nation has always conducted military operations for just causes and through just and moral means. This must continue in the future; otherwise we forfeit our legitimacy to lead the world. So, let me be clear: I do not support the destruction of a "whole civilization." That is not who we are, and it is not consistent with the principles that have long guided America.  I have and will continue to support a strong national defense—one that is focused, disciplined, and firmly rooted in protecting the safety and security of the American people. But, how we protect the lives of the innocent is just as important as how we engage the enemy. America is great because America is good.

Being the PR person for Peltola's team would be a great gig, because you can literally just post the word "Fish." and get a million likes. She has it in the bag.

The President’s defenders are fond of saying his unhinged statements on the war are all about keeping the enemy guessing. But anyone paying any attention knows exactly what’s going to happen tomorrow: he’s going to claim that a new deal was made just in the nick of time. And he’s going to claim it was because of his “tough” threats. But, given that he’s already done this several times now, the world will have to assume he’s lying until either the Strait opens or the attacks stop. So, the real-world consequence of his announcement tomorrow is zero—but it will be enough to move markets briefly. Then, he will continue to post his way through it because he believes he can say whatever he needs to say to paint his actions as effective, without ever acknowledging reality. Throwing things at the wall to see if anything will stick. It’s a stupid and dangerous game, but the President’s defenders should stop insulting Americans by claiming this is about deception. It’s the transparently self-serving storytelling of a child—and the whole world sees it for what it is.

Trump says he agreed to hold off bombing of Iran for two weeks at the urging of Pakistani prime minister and army chief.

Some kind of “deal” between Iran and the United States is expected to be closed by midnight tonight, regional sources tell CNN, with the source stating that “some good news is expected from both sides soon” and that discussions were steered directly by Pakistan’s Chief of the Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir.

6 weeks from today we find out if we get affordable groceries or WW3

NEW: US and Gulf officials are now focusing on reaching deadline extension rather than peace deal, Pakistani mediator indicates progress. -WSJ