US Plans Military Action Against Cuba to Restore Prestige After Iran Humiliation
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/profile/owen-jones. "Humiliated by Iran, the US wants an easy scalp: keep your eyes on Cuba | Owen Jones | The Guardian." May 28, 2026. www.theguardian.com
The Gist
Owen Jones argues that after being embarrassed by Iran, the US is now targeting Cuba for military action because it's an easier opponent. He points to legal charges against Cuban leaders, military deployments, and Trump's own statements as evidence of this plan.
Conclusion
The US is preparing for military action against Cuba as a way to restore its damaged prestige after being humiliated by Iran
Premises
- The US has charged former Cuban president Raúl Castro with serious crimes, similar to the pattern used before attacking Venezuela
- Trump administration is leaking intelligence about Cuban military drones as a threat justification, paralleling the false WMD claims before Iraq invasion
- Trump has explicitly stated his intention to 'take Cuba' and do 'anything I want with it'
- The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier has been deployed to the Caribbean under the guise of maritime exercises
- US economic warfare through sanctions and oil blockade has weakened Cuba economically and reduced government popularity
- Cuba lacks the military capabilities and geographical advantages that Iran possesses, making it an easier target
- Declining powers often become more dangerous after failures, seeking easy victories to restore prestige
Assumptions
- US foreign policy decisions are primarily driven by the need to maintain global prestige and dominance
- The pattern of legal charges followed by military action represents deliberate US strategy
- Economic sanctions are designed to create conditions favorable for regime change or invasion
- Trump's public statements reflect actual policy intentions rather than mere rhetoric
- Military deployments signal preparation for action rather than routine operations