Iran’s attack on Israel and the potential for further escalation in the Middle East; Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on her recent trip to Beijing; Ambassador Rahm Emanuel on US-Japan cooperation in the region
Apr 15, 2024
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CNN's Clarissa Ward and NY Times' David Sanger discuss Iran's attack on Israel, potential escalation; Former State Dept. adviser Vali Nasr analyzes Biden's influence. Treasury Sec. Janet Yellen talks China trip. US Ambassador Rahm Emanuel discusses Japan's role in the region.
Israel's successful interception of Iranian drones shows the challenge facing PM Netanyahu in responding cautiously.
US focuses on addressing unfair trade practices with China while maintaining economic ties for mutual benefit.
Deep dives
Iran's Attack on Israel and the Response
Iran retaliated against Israel with a barrage of drones and missiles, marking the first direct attack on Israel from Iranian soil. However, Israel's air defenses intercepted 99% of the incoming drones and missiles, resulting in minimal damage and casualties. Prime Minister Netanyahu faces a delicate decision on how to respond to this show of force, with internal pressures for a strong reaction despite US urging for restraint.
US-China Relations and Trade Concerns
During Treasury Secretary Yellen's trip to China, discussions highlighted concerns over unfair trade practices and the flooding of global markets with subsidized products like electric vehicles and solar panels. The US retains leverage through existing tariffs and export restrictions, signaling a potential response if needed. Yellen emphasized the importance of managing the relationship responsibly and engaging in joint discussions to address mutual concerns.
Impact of US Policies on Inflation
US policies, such as Buy America provisions and tariffs imposed by both the Trump and Biden administrations, are scrutinized for potential contributions to structural inflation. While these policies aim to create domestic manufacturing jobs and ensure a level playing field in trade, they may lead to increased prices for consumers. The Biden administration faces the challenge of balancing political objectives with potential economic repercussions and inflationary pressures.
Japan's Strategic Role and US Alliance
Japan emerges as a pivotal ally in US foreign policy, showcasing economic resurgence, technological advancements, and defense investments to bolster regional stability. The US-Japan alliance strengthens amid escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly with concerns over China's aggressive actions. Japan's strategic value in deterring China's military assertiveness, especially in potential scenarios like a conflict over Taiwan, emphasizes the importance of collective deterrence and bolstering US alliances in the region.
Today on the show, CNN’s chief international correspondent Clarissa Ward joins from Tel Aviv to break down the calculations taking place within Netanyahu’s government about how and if to respond.
Then, Fareed speaks with The New York Times’ David Sanger and Vali Nasr, former senior adviser at the US Department of State, about the potential for further escalation following Iran’s attack. They also talk about what this most recent development means for the Biden administration’s influence on Israel’s policy in Gaza.
Then, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen tells Fareed about her recent trip to China, where she emphasized that while the US is not seeking to decouple from Beijing, they are also pressuring China to roll back what she calls “unfair” trade policy.
Finally, US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel joins to discuss Prime Minister Kishida’s state visit to Washington, and Japan’s increasingly crucial position in the region.
GUESTS: Clarissa Ward (@clarissaward), David Sanger (@SangerNYT), Vali Nasr (@vali_nasr), Janet Yellen (@SecYellen), Rahm Emanuel (@RahmEmanuel)