Behnam Ben Taleblu, a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, dives into Iran's urgent nuclear ambitions. He emphasizes the critical moment for the U.S. and allies to take decisive action against a nuclear-capable Iran. The discussion highlights complex strategies for prevention, weighing military action against diplomatic negotiations. Ben Taleblu also draws parallels with North Korea's situation, exploring regional destabilization risks and the pressing need for a renewed focus on containment and reconciliation.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Policy Recommendations for the President
Use the threat of tighter sanctions to bring Iran back to realistic talks.
Encourage more transparency and monitoring by Iran with the IAEA.
insights INSIGHT
US Policy on Iran's Nuclear Program
Preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons should be prioritized over containment.
Every US president since 2002 has focused on preventing a nuclear Iran.
question_answer ANECDOTE
North Korea Analogy
North Korea's nuclear program is used as an example of a failed diplomatic approach.
The US withdrawal from the Agreed Framework led to North Korea developing nuclear weapons.
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This book by John Ghazvinian explores the intricate and evolving relationship between the United States and Iran over three centuries. It delves into the periods of mutual fascination, early interactions, close strategic ties, and the eventual descent into mutual hatred. Drawing on extensive archival research in both the U.S. and Iran, Ghazvinian identifies key events, such as the 1953 U.S.-British overthrow of the Iranian prime minister and the 1979 hostage crisis, as pivotal moments in the deterioration of relations. The book aims to show that the current adversarial relationship was not inevitable and highlights the shared histories and mutual admirations that once existed between the two nations.
The Shadow Commander: Soleimani, the US, and Iran's Global Ambitions
Arash Azizi
This book delves into the life and influence of Qassem Soleimani, known as the 'shadow commander,' who was instrumental in establishing Iran as a major force in the Middle East. Through Soleimani's career, Arash Azizi explores Iran's proxy wars, geopolitics, and nuclear program, providing a nuanced understanding of the country's actions and global ambitions. The book covers Soleimani's rise to power, his involvement in various regional conflicts, and his impact on Iran's relations with the US and other countries. It also discusses the broader context of Iran's foreign policy and its pragmatic approach to international relations.
Iran is getting closer to developing its first nuclear weapon. With tensions rising in the Middle East, should the U.S. and its allies take a stand? Those calling to stop Iran now argue this is a “now or never” moment for the region. Those calling for tolerance say while it’s not ideal, it is manageable, and maintaining diplomacy should be the focus. Now we debate: Can America and Its Allies Tolerate A Nuclear Iran, or Is It Time to Stop Them Now?
Arguing STOP NOW: Behnam Ben Taleblu, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies
Arguing TOLERATE: Barbara Slavin, Distinguished Fellow at the Stimson Center
Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates
Open to Debate 
