Front Burner The unanswered questions of the Iran strike
24 snips
Jun 26, 2025 
Gregg Carlstrom, a seasoned Middle East correspondent for The Economist and author of "How Long Will Israel Survive? The Threat From Within," delves into the fiery dynamics of the Israel-Iran conflict. He discusses Trump's recent frustrations and how they reflect the complex web of U.S.-Israeli relations. Topics include the delicate ceasefire, the lasting damage to Iran’s nuclear program, and the fallout from targeted strikes on nuclear scientists. Carlstrom provides insights into the challenges of U.S.-Iran diplomacy amid regional tensions.
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Ceasefires Often Ruptured Early
- Ceasefires between Israel and Iran often begin with violations by one side trying a last attack.
- The recent ceasefire held after initial missile exchanges, reflecting a pattern in the region.
Uncertain Damage to Iran's Nuclear Sites
- Conflicting reports on Iran's nuclear site damage show political motives behind assessments.
- Independent confirmation is unlikely without IAEA inspections, which Iran opposes.
Killing Scientists Isn’t a Complete Setback
- Assassinations of senior Iranian nuclear scientists damage the program but do not end it.
- Iran's nuclear knowledge is dispersed, preventing easy derailment by targeting individuals.
