Benzi:

 

With regard to the graph showing Iranian proxy attacks, the dramatic increase in attacks on coalition logistical convoys in Iraq since July of last year should be seen as an effort to show defiance, while acting in a way that involves very little potential for escalation, as the coalition logistical convoys are driven by Iraqis—there are no Americans present, and most of the IED attacks cause little damage—they are done mainly for propaganda purposes.  And even most of the recent rocket attacks in Iraq seem to be done in such a way as to limit the potential for casualties. The recent drone attacks, however, are of greater concern….

 

HTH

 

Mike

 

 

Dear Benzi:

 

Of course… would be my pleasure!

 

Below are links to PDFs of the articles I provided Maj Gen Halevi this morning—you can download the PDFs from those sites. That’s probably better than actually sending you the PDFs directly, which may choke your computer, LOL! But if you really want the PDFs sent directly, I can do that.

 

https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/media/4459?disposition=inline

 

https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/media/4591?disposition=inline

 

https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/media/4323?disposition=inline

 

And attached is the graphic (its an MS Word document) that I am working on regarding US carrier deployments and deterrence. The numbers regarding pro-Iran proxy attacks in Iraq are accurate enough for our purposes, even if they are not 100% accurate. The analysis that will go with the graphic can be found on pp. 11-13 of my transition paper on the Future Role of the U.S. Military in the Middle East, here (though I will be updating and consolidating it):

 

https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/media/4591?disposition=inline

 

Hope these help.

 

Please confirm receipt and let me know if I can be of any further assistance!

 

Best,

 

Mike

 

Michael Eisenstadt

Kahn Fellow and Director, Military and Security Studies Program

The Washington Institute for Near East Policy