The Playbook Podcast June 23, 2025: The U.S. bombed Iran. What now?
5 snips
Jun 23, 2025 Megan Messerly, a POLITICO White House reporter, joins to discuss the recent U.S. bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities, dubbed “Operation Midnight Hammer.” The conversation delves into President Trump's potential desire for regime change and its clash with his America First agenda. They explore geopolitical ramifications, including possible Iranian retaliation strategies and the shifting dynamics within Congress regarding military intervention. Messerly highlights the complexities of U.S. foreign policy against a backdrop of rising tensions and political division.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Bombing Defines GOP Direction
- The U.S. bombing of Iran marks a pivotal moment defining the Republican Party and MAGA movement's future direction.
- It tests what America First truly means and President Trump's ability to maintain coalition unity.
Iran's Possible Retaliation Range
- Iran must respond to the U.S. strike, but the scale of retaliation is uncertain.
- Cyber attacks or economic moves are possible, but a military strike on U.S. bases would escalate conflict dramatically.
Trump's Mixed Signals on Regime Change
- President Trump’s public statements on regime change contradict official White House messaging.
- He keeps options like regime change on the table as negotiation leverage despite assurances otherwise.