Episode 59
Benedict Arnold’s Choice
Context & sources
From the news: Oman reported progress in the US–Iran negotiations on February 26, though no final deal had been reached. On February 27, Oman’s foreign minister described a possible peace deal as within reach. US and Israeli military operations against Iran began February 28.
From the comic: The untouched, upright pen represents diplomacy still available; the curling calendar page marks the transition from February 27 to February 28. The gun, negotiating table, and depicted killing are editorial metaphors, not a literal reconstruction. The title plays on Sophie’s Choice and Benedict Arnold.
Reuters: US–Iran talks end without a deal, with signs of progress
Al Jazeera: Oman’s foreign minister on the February 27 diplomatic opening
Oman Foreign Ministry: February 28 statement on US and Israeli military operations
Breaking News: Trump suggests a false choice, “Let Iran bomb L.A. or San Diego” or pay “a little bit more” for gas.
HOA News: He wants us to forget he brought a gun instead of a pen to the negotiating table.
Trump jokes about letting Iran bomb Los Angeles and San Diego
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