The DSR Network FTA: Special Episode: America Attacks Iran…What’s Next?
Dec 25, 2025
Gen. Mark Hertling, a retired U.S. Army general with expertise in military strategy, Jon Wolfsthal, a former senior U.S. nonproliferation official, and Steven Cook, a Middle East policy analyst, dive deep into the implications of America's striking Iran. They discuss the operational details of the airstrikes, the uncertainties surrounding damage assessments, and the potential for regional escalation. The panel highlights the risks posed by Iranian retaliation, and the broader geopolitical dynamics with Russia and China in play, emphasizing the heightened threat of nuclear proliferation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Experts Convened For Immediate Reactions
- David Rothkopf frames the episode as an urgent special on a rare overnight U.S. strike against Iran.
- He assembled Mark Hertling, Steven Cook, and Jon Wolfsthal for immediate expert reaction.
Strike Is Not A One-Off
- The U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear facilities is unlikely to be a one-off and will trigger cycles of action and reaction.
- Mark Hertling warns planning didn't fully account for follow-on political, economic, and homeland-security risks.
Damage Assessment Is Highly Uncertain
- Damage assessments from high-altitude bunker-buster strikes remain uncertain and may show limited effect.
- Mark Hertling notes indicators that materials might have been moved and the strikes could have 'pounded dirt.'