LETTER: Answering questions on the Iran war

Las Vegas — John M. McGrail, a retired U.S. Navy commander, responded on September 4, 2026 at 9:00 p.m. to Roy Berger’s August 26 letter concerning Iran. Berger first questions how, after military action aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities, rising lipid and gasoline prices could be labeled a success. He notes that Iran has pledged “Death to America” for more than 45 years and that its interpretation of Islam holds that an apocalypse is necessary to herald the second coming of the Mahdi or the Hidden Imam — what he describes as their messianic figure. According to Berger, some of Iran’s religious leaders view global destruction as beneficial and essential for establishing worldwide Islam and peace. Consequently, he argues that an extra dollar per gallon for fuel is regrettable, yet the destruction of Iran’s nuclear program remains a positive outcome and a success. He adds that, given time and resolve, sufficient pipeline capacity around the Persian Gulf could render the Gulf strategically irrelevant. Berger also asks why the United States would need to “invade and bomb” Iran again if, in June 2025, it had already bombed and destroyed Iran’s nuclear capability. He stresses that no amphibious or airborne landings took place, and that after the destruction of Iran’s nuclear program the country could have abandoned its ambitions, ending the conflict. Instead, Iran escalated its actions — possibly for revenge, to demonstrate continued resolve, or because no one was truly in charge — though Berger contends the motive is immaterial. He asserts that the U.S. decision to employ further military force stems from Iran’s attempt to assert control over the Persian Gulf, which he characterizes as a distinct and emerging issue. Berger frames the choice facing the United States as either undertaking additional military operations to prevent Iran from dominating the Gulf or allowing Tehran to assume control. He maintains that the U.S. response — safeguarding freedom of navigation — is correct, citing a tradition that dates back to 1801 under President Thomas Jefferson during the First Barbary War (1801‑1805), when the nation fought to preserve free passage of the seas. He concludes by noting that the United States has long been a naval power, a fact reflected in the Constitution, which grants Congress the authority to “maintain a Navy” but only to “raise and enactment Armies” when and as required.