Iran deal...

Iran deal...  I'm not entirely sure what to think about this deal, though I'm inclined to think that it's a really bad idea.  With That One leading the Brigade of Bozos, I'm automatically suspicious – all the more so when I read it's his personal initiative and that he personally signed off on the final terms.  A strong argument against any weak deal like this, in my book, is the effectiveness of the Iran sanctions – by all accounts, they were squeezing the Mad Mullahs very hard.  Some observers are talking of this in apocalyptic terms, and they make some good points.  Israel, in particular, is hung out to dry on this – and I think it's telling that they weren't involved in the negotiations, and that they vehemently object.  On the other hand, reading the Joint Plan of Action, I see that (unsurprisingly) some of the objections appear to be overblown and overstated.  If the P5+1 actually designs and executes an effective verification regime, there's some hope of pulling a peaceful solution out of the hat.  That's a mighty big if, though, given the long list of self-absorbed players, some of whom bear a distinct resemblance to Neville Chamberlain.  So I'm reading and learning before I reach a final conclusion.  Here are some of the things I've been reading:

Israelis inspect potential forward bases in Saudi Arabia.  Zowies!

Inside the deal.

The text of the Joint Plan of Action.

Our new ally Iran, and our new enemy, Israel.

At least Syria is happy.  Ace says: well, isn't that precious...

Arab states mostly silent.  These countries, in general, are terrified of the idea that Iran might get nuclear weapons.  With very good reason.

Iran's nuclear triumph.  The Wall Street Journal's editorial board is not with That One on this one.

A bad agreement likely to get worse.  How's that for optimism?

Speaking to a nearly empty room.  That One addresses the Iranian deal.

Obama faces skeptics in Congress.  Well, not just in Congress...

Iran pact faces stiff opposition from Congress.  Since when does that count for anything?

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei claims victory for nuclear program.  Well, of course he does.  He's a politician!  But maybe he's right...