The Monocle Daily Does Iran still have nuclear capabilities? And: the problem of litigating intelligence in public
Jun 30, 2025
Leila Milana-Allen, Monocle's Middle East correspondent, joins Bertu Urschelik, a senior research fellow in Middle East security, and Jill Kastner, author of "A Measure Short of War." They dive into the pressing question of Iran's nuclear capabilities amidst a backdrop of disinformation and political maneuvering. The trio explores the complex diplomacy affecting US-Iran relations while examining the broader geopolitical implications in Lebanon and Syria. They also discuss the art of subversion in statecraft and its historical significance, sparking a thought-provoking conversation.
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Leila's Stormy US Return
- Leila Malana-Allen returned from the US via a delayed red-eye flight during severe thunderstorms.
- Despite exhaustion, she made it back just in time to join The Monocle Daily recording.
Disinformation as Psychological Warfare
- Disinformation about Iran nuclear strike damage is a psychological war tactic by all sides.
- Narratives of victory reflect positioning in negotiations and perceived leverage in diplomacy.
Uncertainty on Nuclear Strike Impact
- The actual damage to Iran's nuclear program matters greatly for regional and international diplomacy.
- Uncertainty fuels strategic questions about uranium, centrifuges, and Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
