Sat Jan 24 18:50:00 UTC 2026: # US Hybrid Warfare: A Pattern of Intervention in Venezuela and Iran

The Story:
An Al Jazeera article by Professor Jeffrey Sachs analyzes what he describes as the U.S. and Israel’s use of “hybrid warfare” tactics against Venezuela and Iran. The article contends that these tactics, involving economic sanctions, military strikes, cyber warfare, misinformation, and fomenting unrest, aim to control Venezuelan oil reserves and destabilize leftist governments, as well as economically weaken and diplomatically isolate Iran. The author highlights the historical precedent of U.S. intervention, citing the 1953 CIA-backed coup in Iran and continuous efforts to undermine the Iranian government since then. Sachs argues that this hybrid warfare serves the interests of the military-tech industrial complex in the U.S. and Israel, causing widespread suffering and undermining international law.

Key Points:

  • The U.S. is accused of waging hybrid wars against Venezuela and Iran through various means, including economic sanctions and cyber warfare.
  • The U.S. has allegedly sought to control Venezuela’s oil reserves since 2002 and overthrow its leftist government.
  • The U.S. and Israel are accused of escalating hybrid warfare against Iran, potentially leading to regional or global conflict.
  • The article references the 1953 CIA-orchestrated coup against Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh as historical precedent.
  • Donald Trump’s administration is criticized for undermining negotiations with Iran, specifically withdrawing from the 2016 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
  • The article claims that hybrid warfare benefits the U.S. and Israeli military-tech industrial complex.
  • The UN Charter is being undermined by hybrid warfare tactics because it violates the very basis of international law, which calls on countries to refrain from the use of force against other countries.

Critical Analysis:
The related historical context provides insights into the unfolding of events. The article focuses on hybrid war tactics with Venezuela and Iran while the context provides supporting information that Iran is rejecting UN resolutions and defending its position. The condemnation of protest killings is a reason for the unrest referred to in the article.

Key Takeaways:

  • The concept of “hybrid warfare” is used to describe a multifaceted approach to foreign policy involving economic, military, and informational tools.
  • The U.S.’s historical involvement in both Venezuela and Iran shapes its current policies and perceived intentions.
  • The article suggests a strong connection between U.S. foreign policy, Israeli interests, and the military-industrial complex.
  • The instability in Venezuela and Iran are presented as direct consequences of U.S. and Israeli actions.
  • The described tactics potentially violate international law and norms.

Impact Analysis:

The implications of this alleged hybrid warfare are far-reaching:

  • Regional Instability: Continued intervention could escalate conflicts and destabilize the Middle East and Latin America.
  • Erosion of International Norms: The disregard for international law weakens the UN and undermines global cooperation.
  • Humanitarian Crisis: Economic sanctions and military actions could exacerbate humanitarian crises, leading to mass displacement and suffering.
  • Geopolitical Realignment: Other nations may seek to counter U.S. influence, leading to a multipolar world order and new alliances.
  • Domestic Polarization: The debate over U.S. foreign policy will intensify, further dividing the American public.

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