Morning Joe Breaking: Four U.S. service members killed in air crash in Iraq
Mar 13, 2026
Hagar Shamali, former U.S. Mission to the UN spokesperson with Middle East expertise. Richard Haass, veteran foreign policy analyst. Jonathan Lemire, political reporter and commentator. Josh Einiger, Dubai-based on-the-ground correspondent. They discuss a deadly U.S. air crash in Iraq, shifting Iran strategy and regional risks, naval escort debates in the Strait, and local security impacts across the Gulf.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Military Damage Won't End Asymmetric Iranian Threats
- Military action has degraded much of Iran's conventional forces but cannot stop asymmetric attacks like drones, mines, and cyber strikes.
- Richard Haass argues continued operations alone won't secure oil infrastructure or achieve regime change.
New Supreme Leader Likely Hardline and Escalatory
- Iran's new supreme leader appears more hardline and tied to the IRGC, signaling a refusal to negotiate and likely escalation of proxy and regional attacks.
- Hagar Shamali warns this consolidation could push Gulf states closer to the U.S. for security despite initial pleas against war.
Escorting Tankers Through Hormuz Is Risky
- Treasury Secretary Scott Besant said the U.S. Navy may escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, but experts warn escorts would be difficult under swarm drone and mine attacks.
- Josh Einiger reports escorts could make military ships direct targets with limited deterrence.