FDD Morning Brief Could the Maduro playbook work on Khamenei? | feat. Elliott Abrams
Jan 28, 2026
Elliott Abrams, a CFR senior fellow and former U.S. special representative on Iran and Venezuela, offers seasoned foreign policy perspective. He discusses U.S. force posture in the Gulf and deterrence logic. He weighs offensive options versus political costs and Israel’s concerns about Iranian responses. He compares lessons from Venezuela and explores shifting regional alignments.
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Three Clear Paths For U.S.-Iran Policy
- Jon Schanzer outlines three Iran options: diplomacy, regime degradation, or regime change.
- The choice hinges on President Trump and a closing window of opportunity.
Turkey's Hosting Of Hamas Is Problematic
- Jon Schanzer highlights Turkey's hosting of Hamas leaders as a provocative move.
- He labels Turkey a sponsor of Hamas and warns against its role in post-war Gaza governance.
Hamas Wants Institutional Roles In Gaza
- Hamas seeks roles within Gaza's proposed technocratic NCAG, offering police and civil servants.
- Schanzer views this as a dangerous bid to regain influence and legitimacy.
