What Really Matters with Walter Russell Mead What Does Trump’s Bombing of Iran Mean for the Middle East?
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Jun 27, 2025 The discussion dives into why major powers like China, Russia, and North Korea have stayed on the sidelines regarding Iran. A significant primary victory in New York signals changing political tides influenced by immigration patterns. The conversation also critiques how Trump's view of NATO stands in stark contrast to his predecessors. The impact of U.S. actions, especially the bombing of Fordow, raises questions on Middle Eastern alliances and the humanitarian implications in Gaza, framing a complex narrative about regional tensions.
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Limits of Iran\'s Allies
- China's, Russia's, and North Korea's reluctance to aid Iran shows limits in their alliances and calculations about risks with the US's strike.
- This behavior signals to other countries that willingness to support Iran may not be as strong as perceived.
Trump\'s Impact on Middle East Dynamics
- Trump's strong support for Israel has shifted geopolitical calculations in the Middle East compared to the approach of Biden or Harris.
- His firmer stance has made adversaries reconsider their strategies and alliances in the region.
Immigrant Radical Politics Return
- Zoran Mamdani's primary victory signals a resurgence of radical politics among immigrant populations in New York, echoing early 20th-century trends.
- Such movements historically precede larger political shifts but often face setbacks like immigration restrictions.