Jacobin Radio Behind the News: Israel’s War on Iran w/ Mouin Rabbani
Jun 24, 2025
Mouin Rabbani, an expert on Middle Eastern affairs and co-editor of Jadalia, joins Joel Schalit, editor of The Battleground, to discuss the intricacies of Israel's conflict with Iran. They explore the historical roots of Israeli aggression, the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, and the societal influences shaping Israeli politics. Rabbani highlights the dangers of regime change in Iran, while Schalit critiques the portrayal of Iran as a simplistic threat. Together, they unravel the deep-seated tensions and military strategies underlying the current geopolitical climate.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
US Shifted From Diplomacy to War
- The US initially sought negotiation with Iran but shifted toward supporting war due to influence from Israel and hawks.
- This approach dangerously underestimates the potential for a costly regional conflict.
Aggression Unites Populations
- Foreign aggression tends to unite a population, even critics, behind their leadership.
- Israelis and Iranians both rally around their governments when faced with external threats.
Israel's Nuclear Monopoly Goal
- Iran is close to nuclear weapon capability, primarily a political decision away from acquiring one.
- Israel’s war on Iran aims to maintain its nuclear monopoly in the Middle East.