The hottest Military Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Iran War Open Thread and Subscriber Video (2026)

The Corbett Report • 8 implied HN points • 28 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. An open thread is soliciting crowd-sourced, boots-on-the-ground information and updates about the recent strike on Iran and the ongoing responses.
  2. Members are urged to share vetted local press reports, intelligence, and analysis about deep state roles and likely next moves, with top contributions possibly used in a podcast.
  3. There is a subscriber-only video featuring Chinese Lunar New Year in Vietnam and a membership call-to-action with help offered for signing in or subscribing.

A note on the ridiculous 2026 "National Defense Strategy"

Michael Tracey • 70 implied HN points • 24 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. It claims a pivot to "realism" but actually calls for expanding the U.S. military footprint worldwide — new bases near China, more access in Greenland and Panama, deeper Middle East involvement, and more presence in Europe and Africa.
  2. The rhetoric rejects past regime change and nation-building, yet the plan and recent actions empower allies, enable interventions (e.g., Venezuela and Gaza), and push a wartime-scale boost in military production.
  3. These strategy papers largely package presidential impulses as official doctrine, so U.S. priorities end up being whatever the president decides rather than a coherent, constrained strategy.

Tankers South

Irina Slav on energy • 982 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Tanker traffic in the Red Sea is being disrupted due to missile strikes between the Houthis and the Combined Military Forces, leading to rerouted vessels and rising prices.
  2. Container freight rates for vessels traveling to Europe from Asia have reached a 15-month high, with fears of the situation worsening.
  3. Higher shipping prices and emissions are a consequence of vessels avoiding the Red Sea route, affecting the cost of various goods and causing some companies to switch from ships to planes.

2025 Is Off To A Wild Start

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2393 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. Recent news events are raising suspicion, especially involving two military veterans committing violent acts. This has sparked discussion about the connection between military service and extremism.
  2. There are concerns about the current U.S. administration's approach to international conflicts, especially with talks of military action involving Iran. This raises questions about decision-making in leadership.
  3. The debate on immigration is highlighting the exploitation of workers, as both political sides have different reasons for their stance. It's important to consider the impact on all workers, not just the politics surrounding immigration.

Google-affiliated military AI expo cracks down on journalists amid Code Pink disruptions

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 1058 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. Journalists faced harassment at a military AI expo organized by Eric Schmidt, highlighting tensions between security and freedom of the press.
  2. Protests against U.S. and Israeli military actions gained attention at the event, revealing strong opposition to the narratives being presented.
  3. The expo focused on using AI for military and national security, with discussions around how technology can be used for 'regime change' and information control.
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Meditations On A Six Year-Old Amputee Crawling Through Gaza With The Help Of A Roller Skate

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2421 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. A six-year-old boy in Gaza, who lost his legs due to violence, uses a roller skate to help him move. His situation highlights the painful realities many children face in conflict zones.
  2. Many children in Gaza now feel that death is imminent, with a significant number wishing for it. This shows the deep emotional and psychological scars caused by ongoing violence.
  3. The author expresses deep sorrow for the plight of children like Mohammad. It’s important to acknowledge the sadness of such situations without trying to put a positive spin on them.

Comrade Musk

Diane Francis • 1179 implied HN points • 04 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. Elon Musk has significant power due to his wealth and technology, but this has raised concerns about his influence on global events. His actions, like limiting access to his satellite service, can have serious implications for security.
  2. Musk's past decisions have created tension and controversy, especially regarding his relations with Russia and Ukraine. His choices, such as withholding satellite support, have directly affected military operations.
  3. Many believe that Musk's actions, which intertwine technology with foreign policy, should be examined by government authorities to ensure proper oversight and prevent one person from having too much control over important matters.

After the Bombs: What Remains of Iran’s Nuclear Program?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 904 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. The U.S. military dropped large bombs on Iran's nuclear sites, marking a big moment for America and the Middle East. Many people are discussing the fallout of this action and what it means for the future.
  2. There are concerns about how effective the strikes were since reports suggest that Iran may have moved important equipment before the bombs fell. This raises questions about whether Iran's nuclear program is truly damaged.
  3. In Israel, there is a mix of hope and uncertainty following the strikes. Some are feeling optimistic about potential changes, while others worry about possible retaliation and the larger implications of the conflict.

Admiral Fabuloso Thumps His Tub

Spoils of War • 786 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. There is a push for action against Iran despite lack of evidence.
  2. Admiral Stavridis' rise in the military and political circles is characterized by toadying and political maneuvering.
  3. His involvement in conflicts like the Libya intervention and advocacy for aggressive actions in Russia and Syria raises concerns.

Bombs Not Bread

¡Do Not Panic! • 825 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. The US and UK have been bombing Yemen with expensive missiles, while millions are suffering from severe hunger.
  2. The UN's World Food Programme in Yemen lacks funding, despite the high military spending on bombs.
  3. Western countries, including the US and UK, have been complicit in the crisis in Yemen, leading to mass deaths and a man-made famine.

Did you order your PLARF from Wish.com?

CDR Salamander • 904 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Military organizations can face dysfunction due to moral weaknesses and hierarchical structures.
  2. Corruption in military contracts is a longstanding issue that attracts unethical individuals.
  3. High-functioning militaries have cultures and leaders in place to address problems before they escalate.

Drill at the drop of a hat

Taipology • 83 implied HN points • 30 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Nancy Pelosi’s 2022 visit changed the operational environment around Taiwan and led to regular PLA drills that have become a steady salami‑slicing pressure.
  2. China’s surprise “Justice Mission” drills came extremely close to the island, including inside the 12‑nautical‑mile line, creating a horrible double‑bind for Taiwan’s forces: shoot and risk escalation, or hold fire and set a precedent of tolerated intrusions.
  3. Beijing amplified the pressure with a mocking vlog while Taiwan showed logistical hiccups and international backing looked shaky, especially with U.S. leadership taking a hands‑off tone, raising the risk that any future invasion would aim to exploit surprise and limited diplomatic time.

Gaza update: October 7 2023

Foreign Exchanges • 1474 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Hamas launched a significant attack on Israeli settlements and military outposts, leading to casualties on both sides.
  2. The possibility of a new Gaza war is looming, as indicated by Israeli rhetoric and actions.
  3. Immediate concerns include potential hostage situations and international reactions to the conflict.

Fullbore Friday

CDR Salamander • 845 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
💾 History Military
  1. The importance of responsibility and trust in wartime scenarios.
  2. The story of the SMS Dresden and its fate during WWI.
  3. Highlighting the decision-making process of a German Commanding Officer during a crucial moment.

Mutiny in Russia [i]

Black Mountain Analysis • 1434 implied HN points • 24 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Dissatisfaction among military and intelligence leaders in Russia with the format of the war in Ukraine.
  2. The importance of espionage and recruiting dissatisfied high-level individuals, as discussed in Sun Tzu's 'Art of War'.
  3. Speculation and analysis surrounding the mutiny in Russia, including potential consequences on geopolitical, military, and economic fronts.

'You know we are in the final stages of an invasion when even the corporate media is reporting on the thousands of Chinese nationals streaming across the U.S. southern border.' Biden is and has

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 668 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. Some believe that there is a stealth invasion happening at the U.S. southern border with the influx of Chinese nationals, and this issue is gaining mainstream media attention.
  2. There are concerns about the potential threat posed by individuals entering the U.S., especially if they are of military age and come from regions with anti-American sentiments.
  3. There are warnings and calls for preparation for potential conflict from national leaders across the globe, but a lack of such alerts in the U.S. prompts questions about readiness in the face of perceived threats.

Human Shields

Yasha Levine • 845 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich proposes reducing Gaza population by 90% as a solution to conflict.
  2. Israeli settlements near Gaza were strategically placed as human shields for protection.
  3. The historical military roots of Nahal brigades led to the development of armed pioneer settler communities in Israel.

United Russia

Black Mountain Analysis • 1395 implied HN points • 25 Jun 23
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. A deal has been reached between Prigozhin and President Lukashenko of Belarus
  2. Prigozhin goes to exile to Belarus with his Wagner fighters
  3. Possible scenarios include cooperation with the West, Russian intelligence, or Prigozhin acting alone

Washington War Games: How the U.S. Prepared for an Iran Strike

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 848 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. The Trump administration prepared for military action against Iran starting in February. They wanted to be more involved in the conflict.
  2. In a private dinner, U.S. officials and Iranian dissidents discussed how to attack Iran. They talked about strategies that were very similar to Israel's recent military actions.
  3. Key military moves like targeting Iran's leadership and nuclear program have happened, but certain planned actions were still not carried out at the time of the discussion.

Gaza checkpoint shell company outs itself as led by former CIA paramilitary chief

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 1709 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. A shell company called Safe Reach Solutions is led by a former CIA paramilitary chief, Philip F. Reilly. This company is involved in operating a vehicle checkpoint in Gaza.
  2. Reilly has a strong background in intelligence and military operations, having held various significant roles, including leading controversial drone strike programs.
  3. The article suggests that the U.S. intelligence community uses access journalism to manage and divert attention from their covert activities in conflict zones.

Drones

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1988 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Military
  1. Drones are increasingly present in our lives, taking over both our skies and our privacy. It's unsettling how they surveil us and even interfere with our daily routines.
  2. Drones are being used in war zones in disturbing ways, like using sound to draw civilians out of hiding. This raises concerns about ethics and humanity in warfare.
  3. The rise of drones signifies a shift from nature to technology in our environment. This change is affecting our connection to the natural world and what it means to be human.

Speaking of the Russian Navy

CDR Salamander • 1336 implied HN points • 23 May 23
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. High profile alliance units like SNMG2 are important for refining cooperation and professionalism among nations.
  2. The condition of warships like USS James E. Williams reflects on the nation's Navy and impacts perceptions of health, morale, and respect.
  3. Proper maintenance and stewardship of warships are crucial for representing the nation well and maintaining credibility with allies and competitors.

The Iran War: Power and Blowback

Charles Eisenstein • 11 implied HN points • 28 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. War inflicts real human suffering and should be judged by who it harms, not just by strategic or economic costs.
  2. A foreign policy that acts on "do what benefits us if we can get away with it" is the same logic as other abuses of power and corrodes diplomacy, law, and moral standing.
  3. True peace must come from compassion and the sense that we are interconnected, not merely self-interest, and building that peace could transform society even as old normalities fall apart.

Trump, the Troops, and the Law

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 788 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. The Posse Comitatus Act limits the use of U.S. military troops for enforcing laws on home soil, which many believe Trump violated by deploying National Guard troops in response to protests.
  2. A federal judge recently ruled that Trump's deployment of the National Guard was illegal, but this decision is currently on hold as it is being appealed.
  3. The ongoing debate highlights the legal complexities and differing opinions on the military's role in domestic issues, especially during times of civil unrest.

Guest, Host, Ghost

Thinking about... • 614 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. Hospitality goes beyond just inviting someone over; it creates a sense of belonging and connection, especially in tough times like war. In Ukraine, even amidst conflict, the spirit of generosity remains strong.
  2. The impact of war extends beyond the battlefield and affects communities globally. When one country fights for its sovereignty, like Ukraine, it helps defend the principles of freedom and peace for everyone.
  3. We should acknowledge the courage of those who fight for their country and understand that their struggles impact us all. Honoring their bravery is crucial for maintaining our own moral integrity.

The U.S. Government silently disabled anonymous public access to billions of dollars of military AI contracts

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 1546 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. The U.S. Government has made it harder for the public to access information about military AI contracts by requiring a Login.gov account and surveillance consent.
  2. Anonymous access to contract details was shut down, impacting transparency on billions in military spending, especially for contracts known as Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs).
  3. Despite these changes, access to the data was briefly restored, and there are ongoing discussions about improving transparency and reporting for OTAs.

U.S. helped Pakistan cancel elections with a controversial IMF bailout--funded by a secret Ukraine weapons program

Bad News • 1218 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. The U.S. helped Pakistan cancel elections by providing an IMF bailout funded by a secret Ukraine weapons program.
  2. The IMF bailout demanded harsh structural policy reforms in Pakistan, leading to protests against soaring gas and electricity prices.
  3. The arms sales from Pakistan to the U.S. for Ukraine played a critical role in securing the IMF loan that allowed Pakistan to delay elections and deepen a crackdown on dissenters.

Demonstrator ejected from Palantir's talk at DC AI expo

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 793 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. A protestor was removed from an AI Expo in Washington, D.C. for chanting against Palantir's role in military surveillance and actions in Gaza.
  2. The protest highlighted concerns about the impact of AI and technology on warfare, especially regarding innocent civilians.
  3. The protestor aimed to raise awareness among attendees about the consequences of Palantir's business practices.

Why is Russia winning?

kamilkazani • 864 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Quantity of weaponry is a major factor in military victory
  2. Russian air defense production plays a crucial role in their military superiority
  3. Russian machining heavily relies on imported tools from Western countries

Code Pink disrupts former Google CEO's interview at his DC AI expo

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 773 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. Code Pink, a protest group, interrupted an interview with former Google CEO Eric Schmidt to speak out against technology being used in warfare. They chanted phrases like 'No Tech for Genocide' to draw attention to the issue.
  2. The protests were fueled by ongoing violence in Gaza, with activists condemning companies like Google for their role in supporting military actions. They highlighted the toll of the conflict, citing thousands of civilian casualties.
  3. This was one of multiple protests by Code Pink during an AI expo, where they aimed to raise awareness about the impact of military contracts on innocent lives. Their actions have sparked conversations about ethics in technology and military partnerships.

Why Kupyansk Matters

Comment is Freed • 102 implied HN points • 18 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Military
  1. Russia pushes a story that its bigger forces and readiness to take heavy losses make victory inevitable, and that idea encourages fatalism about Ukraine’s chances.
  2. Western media and some policymakers repeat this framing, which creates pressure to accept deals that would hand over Ukrainian territory.
  3. Ukrainian resistance at places like Kupyansk shows the picture isn’t so clear, and those defensive successes weaken Moscow’s claim of inevitable victory and change the political calculations.

Taliban In Afghanistan Bad, Al-Qaeda In Syria Good

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1769 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military
  1. The West often views military actions differently based on who is doing them. For example, invading a country for security reasons is seen as wrong for Russia but accepted when done by Israel.
  2. The label 'terrorist organization' is often used by Western powers to justify their actions and military interventions, and it's seen as a tool to control the narrative rather than a factual designation.
  3. The world is becoming unpredictable, and many believe that anything can happen. This means there is hope for positive change, as circumstances can rapidly transform in unexpected ways.