J. Len Sciuto Discusses Middle East Tensions, National Security, and Military Readiness on *The Neil Haley Show*

# J. Len Sciuto Discusses Middle East Tensions, National Security, and Military Readiness on *The Neil Haley Show* In this episode of **The Neil Haley Show**, bestselling author, military veteran, and geopolitical commentator **J. Len Sciuto** discusses escalating tensions in the Middle East, the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. military readiness, and how current events parallel themes explored in his bestselling novels. Drawing on his 36 years of military service, Sciuto provides historical context, strategic analysis, and personal insight into today's rapidly changing global security environment. Sciuto begins by reminding listeners that his observations are based on publicly available information, military experience, and geopolitical analysis. He encourages audiences to stay informed while recognizing that many international developments remain fluid and continue to evolve. Neil Haley congratulates Sciuto on the continued success of his books, including *Hades Crypt*, *Tango Down China Sea*, and *Devil's Delegation*. The discussion highlights how each novel explores military and geopolitical scenarios that closely resemble issues now appearing in world headlines. Beyond writing, Sciuto explains that two-thirds of all book royalties are donated to junior enlisted military personnel and their families. After serving more than three decades in the military, he believes supporting young service members is an important way to give back. A major portion of the interview focuses on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical shipping routes. Sciuto explains why the region remains strategically important and discusses proposals to construct a canal through Oman's Musandam Peninsula to bypass Iranian-controlled waters. While such a project could improve commercial shipping routes, he notes that missile threats would still remain. The conversation turns to Iran's missile capabilities, nuclear ambitions, and recent ceasefire agreements. Sciuto expresses concern that temporary political agreements often fail to address larger security issues, including missile development, nuclear enrichment, and long-term enforcement. He emphasizes that memorandums of understanding differ significantly from legally binding treaties and should be viewed cautiously. Neil and Sciuto also discuss the extensive U.S. military presence throughout the Middle East. Sciuto explains that American bases across Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates provide logistical support, intelligence gathering, rapid response capabilities, and regional deterrence while strengthening alliances. Reflecting on his military career, Sciuto shares stories from his twelve years serving aboard submarines, including a classified Cold War intelligence mission aboard the USS *Bang* (SS-385). He describes operating under difficult conditions, hot-racking due to limited space, carrying live weapons, and conducting surveillance missions while navigating tense encounters with foreign military forces. The discussion also examines the evolution of submarine technology. Sciuto explains how today's nuclear-powered submarines have dramatically advanced in propulsion, sonar, automation, navigation, and weapons systems compared to the diesel submarines of his era. He stresses that continued modernization remains essential as nations such as China and Russia continue expanding their naval capabilities. Throughout the interview, Sciuto emphasizes that maintaining national security requires constant vigilance, credible deterrence, strong alliances, and military preparedness. Drawing upon both history and current events, he encourages listeners to understand how strategic decisions made today will shape future global stability. As the interview concludes, Sciuto reflects on his lifelong military service and expresses gratitude for the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. He closes by encouraging Americans to remain united, support those who serve, and continue defending the values that have sustained the nation for generations. His message is one of patriotism, preparedness, and hope for the future, reminding listeners that peace is best preserved through strength, readiness, and an unwavering commitment to freedom.