The Fifth Column #511 - Iran on the Brink, NYC on the Brink (w/ Harry Siegel)
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Jun 20, 2025 Harry Siegel, a savvy chronicler of New York City politics and a podcaster, joins the discussion on pressing geopolitical issues. They dive into Iran's complex relationship with Israel and the internal conflicts within the MAGA movement regarding foreign policy. Transitioning to local politics, Siegel tackles the thrilling New York mayoral race, questioning whether an anti-capitalist candidate could lead the city. The conversation also touches on the impact of grassroots campaigns and identity politics in shaping the future of NYC.
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Differences from Iraq War
- Israel's current conflict with Iran is fundamentally different from the Iraq War and involves no likely U.S. ground invasion.
- The focus lies on degrading Iran's nuclear capabilities through targeted strikes rather than broad regime change.
Iranian Internal Dissent
- Iran's internal dissent is significant but brutally suppressed, with protests often met with lethal force.
- Iranian exile groups strongly believe change must come from within Iranians, not imposed externally.
War Powers Ambiguity
- The Massey-Khanna war powers resolution highlights ambiguity in presidential war-making authority.
- There is criticism that presidents bypass Congress on military decisions, continuing a longstanding trend.
