We Win, They Lose, with Matthew Kroenig | GoodFellows: John H. Cochrane, Niall Ferguson, H.R. McMaster, and Bill Whalen | Hoover Institution
Aug 7, 2024
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Join Matthew Kroenig, Vice President at the Atlantic Council, along with Hoover Institution scholars John Cochrane and H.R. McMaster, as they tackle pressing geopolitical issues. They discuss the rising tensions in the Middle East and the impact of U.S. foreign policy. Kroenig shares insights from his book on Republican strategies and the need to revisit Cold War deterrence. Meanwhile, Cochrane analyzes market instability and trust in government, reflecting on lessons from history amid today's challenges.
The podcast emphasizes that peace is best achieved through strength rather than appeasement, highlighting historical lessons that reinforce this view.
A robust U.S. policy is necessary to hold Iran accountable for its proxy actions in the Middle East and strengthen deterrents against aggression.
Concerns over declining trust in government institutions underscore the need for transparency and effective governance to restore public confidence.
Deep dives
The Imperative of Strength Over Surrender
The discussion emphasizes that the only true path to peace is through strength rather than appeasement. Historical lessons demonstrate that appeasement often leads to greater risks and conflict. The notion that surrender offers immediate peace is misleading, as it does not address the underlying threats posed by aggressive entities. The importance of a robust policy framework to confront adversaries is highlighted as essential for long-term security.
Iran's Role in Regional Conflict
Iran's influence in ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly with Hezbollah and Israel, is deeply concerning. The potential for Iran to escalate tensions is significant, especially given past attacks that have gone unchallenged. The speakers argue for a clear U.S. policy that holds Iran accountable for its proxy actions, rather than viewing groups like Hezbollah as independent actors. A stronger deterrent strategy is necessary to prevent further aggression from Iran and its affiliates.
Revisiting U.S. Middle Eastern Strategy
The Biden administration's approach to Iran is critiqued, particularly in the context of the conflict's evolution following October 7. A need for a return to a more traditional U.S. strategy, which supports allies like Israel and Gulf states against Iran's influence, is emphasized. A bipartisan approach to foreign policy that prioritizes national security over partisan differences could lead to more effective outcomes. The discussion points towards the failure of the current administration to provide clear, cohesive guidance that strengthens regional partnerships.
The Dangers of Isolationism
The ongoing debate about America's role in global affairs raises concerns over potential isolationism within the Republican Party. It is argued that America's engagement in international matters is critical for both national security and global stability. The historical context suggests that disengagement could lead to a rise in hostile regimes and chaos that ultimately affects American interests. Building alliances and maintaining a strong global presence are framed as vital components of a successful foreign policy.
Revitalizing American Institutions
The decreasing trust in American government institutions is tied to a perceived incompetence and failure to meet public expectations. Striving for a restoration of competence and credibility in institutions is presented as crucial for rebuilding public confidence. The speakers highlight a need to ensure that governmental actions are transparent and focused on serving the common good. A renewed commitment to effective governance and accountability may help alleviate public skepticism and restore faith in democratic institutions.
Is a regional war across the Middle East about to erupt? And what to make of a Venezuelan regime that doesn’t honor election results? Matthew Kroenig, Vice President and Senior Director of the Atlantic Council’s Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security and coauthor of the book We Win They Lose: Republican Foreign Policy and the New Cold War, joins Hoover senior fellows John Cochrane and H.R. McMaster to discuss lessons from deterrence (or a lack thereof) past, present, and future. Next, John explains how a market meltdown underscores a fragile world economy, followed by a discussion of two historical milestones: 50 years since Richard Nixon’s resignation (with public trust in government today significantly lower than in Watergate’s heyday); and Herbert Hoover’s 150th birthday (as to his humanitarian pursuits, where would our fellows be without Hoover’s namesake institution?).
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