Ex-Intel Officer Warns: Trump’s Iran Policy Risks Escalation

Intelligence Expert Criticizes Trump’s Rhetoric on Iran’s Leader

Former US Navy intelligence officer Malcolm Nance has strongly criticized President Donald Trump’s approach to Iran, warning that his rhetoric and policies could lead to dangerous escalation. Nance argued that Trump has inaccurately portrayed Iran’s Supreme Leader, shifting from viewing him as a mellowed 89-year-old to a “real radical.” This change, Nance explained, is based on a misunderstanding of the leader’s background and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Iran’s Leader: A Deeper Look

Nance, speaking on Times Radio, detailed the extensive military experience of Iran’s Supreme Leader. “As an intelligence professional, I would never discount” his capabilities, Nance stated. The leader began his military career at age 17, serving a year in combat during the Iran-Iraq War. He later led an IRGC combat team before commanding the entire IRGC, transforming it into what Nance described as a “lethal machine” and a “state-sponsored terrorist group.” Furthermore, he took control of the Basij, a volunteer force of 800,000 with 25 million supporters, and militarized it.

We turned over the government from an old 89-year-old model who had mellowed out in his age even though he was lethal when he was younger. And we upgraded Iran to a real radical. I mean, a guy that has experience. You killed his father, you killed his wife, and you killed one of his children. So, do you think he’s going to be reflecting mercy and compassion in getting the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps to engage the United States? We have another thing coming.

Concerns Over US Military Deployment

The interview touched upon the recent deployment of thousands of Marines to the Persian Gulf amidst rising tensions. Nance expressed serious concerns about the potential mission, particularly regarding the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. He questioned the preparedness and strategy behind such an operation, citing geographical challenges and the capabilities of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s naval forces.

Iranian Navy’s Capabilities Highlighted

Nance, drawing on his own experience in the Persian Gulf, including combat against the Iranian Navy in 1987-1988, detailed the threats posed by Iran. He warned that the IRGC’s navy is the real threat, not the conventional Iranian Navy. This force utilizes high-speed boats, suicide boats, suicide underwater torpedoes, suicide drones, and anti-ship missiles. Nance also mentioned the potential for sea mines and suicide attacks by small boats.

Amphibious Operation Risks

Discussing the possibility of an amphibious assault on Iranian islands, Nance highlighted significant logistical and strategic weaknesses. He noted that a key ship in the amphibious readiness group, the USS San Diego, was missing, leaving only a fraction of its landing capability. “That is not what you would need for an island like this chain of islands,” he stated. Nance believes the entire amphibious campaign is an “afterthought” and poorly planned, likening it to “malpractice.”

Civilian Leadership vs. Military Professionals

Nance distinguished between the civilian leadership and the military professionals within the US command structure. He suggested that while generals and commanders are aware of the risks, they are bound by orders from civilian leaders like President Trump. “If Donald Trump says, ‘I don’t care what your concerns are. Damn the torpedoes full speed ahead,’… then we’re going to do it because they’re orders,” Nance explained. He speculated that the current delay in operations might be the Joint Chiefs of Staff and service commanders trying to ensure all necessary resources are in place before acting on potentially impulsive orders.

A Call for Caution

The former intelligence officer emphasized that the US has studied options for dealing with Iran for decades, yet the current approach seems to be recreating strategies without full consideration. He urged caution, stating, “We’re just going to have to hope that the US military’s professionalism carries us through.” The interview concluded with listeners reacting strongly to Nance’s assessment, with one commenter noting, “Trump not listening to anyone not agreeing with him.”

Source: Trump Upgraded Iran From A Mellowing 89 Year Old Leader To A 'Real Radical' (YouTube)