Radio National Breakfast US deploys additional troops to Middle East
Mar 22, 2026
Mick Mulroy, retired CIA paramilitary officer and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Middle East, offers concise analysis of Iran’s threats and regional security. He discusses the risks of a 48‑hour ultimatum, Iran’s warning to close the Strait of Hormuz, demonstrations of long‑range missile capability, and the search for a diplomatic off‑ramp to avoid broader escalation.
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Strait Of Hormuz Shifted Conflict To Economics
- The Strait of Hormuz closures have shifted the conflict from purely military to economic pressure.
- Mick Mulroy says Iran has profited financially from previous closures and sanctions relief, making the economic impact global and hard to reverse.
Attacking Iranian Infrastructure Risks Major Escalation
- Direct attacks on Iranian energy or power plants risk major escalation and wider regional disruption.
- Mulroy warns targeting infrastructure would hurt Iranian civilians and could provoke irreversible responses like closing Hormuz until rebuilt.
Diego Garcia Strike Shows Range But Not ICBM Threat
- Iran demonstrated long-range strike capability by attempting a missile attack on Diego Garcia despite missing.
- Mulroy notes the attempt shows reach but says Iran remains years from ICBM capability to hit the U.S.