Brian M Downing and the world at war. Timely, thoughtful, and nonpartisan analysis of military matters. @BrianMDowning1.
Brian M Downing The Trump administration and its Saudi allies were relieved as US interest in the Khashoggi assassination receded. The passage of time and midterm elections saw to that. Riyadh, Washington, and Jerusalem breathed easier as their hardline Iran policy seemed back on track. The issue returned to the Read More …
Brian M Downing The apparent murder of Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi at the direction of the crown prince has been disastrous for the kingdom. Western publics are horrified and voicing their concern to elected officials. Members of the US congress are calling for sanctions. Senator Lindsey Graham (SC) wants Mohammed Read More …
Brian M Downing Mohammed bin Salman, the 33-year-old heir apparent to the Saudi throne, has been aggressively consolidating his power. Though initiating welcome reforms, he has come down hard on dissent and continued wars in Syria and Yemen. Neither conflict is going well, but the prince has skillfully maneuvered other Read More …