David Hookstead Tracks Signs the U.S. May Resume Strikes on Iran
November 7, 2026
In a video dated November 5th, David Hookstead walks through a stack of signals suggesting the U.S. military is quietly repositioning for a possible return to strikes on Iran, even as diplomats and administration officials debate timing and strategy.
Key points
- More assets inbound: Hookstead cites Axios reporting that the U.S. military is finishing preparations for possible major combat operations in Iran, with additional forces, including a third aircraft carrier, headed to the region.
- Divided advisors: He notes CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Treasury Secretary Bessent reportedly favor letting the naval blockade and economic pressure on Iran run longer before any military action.
- Mysterious aircraft: An MC-130J "Ghost Rider" black-ops support plane was spotted flying into Jordan, and a U.S. government Learjet C-21A flew from Munich toward an undisclosed Middle East destination with unknown passengers.
- Provocations pile up: Iran reportedly tested ballistic missiles in multiple provinces, claimed another tanker and a U.S. drone were hit, and released video depicting a mock execution of President Trump, which Hookstead argues could push Trump back toward striking.
- Brazen IRGC move: An IRGC ground force commander was filmed touring islands in the Strait of Hormuz by boat, which Hookstead calls a stunning risk given his rank.
Quick take
Hookstead's video reads less like a prediction and more like a checklist of warning signs, with the throughline being that midterm losses may actually free Trump to act more aggressively on Iran rather than less.
Watch the full video: David Hookstead