The Rachman Review Israel goes to war with Iran
19 snips
Jun 18, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Philip Gordon, former national security advisor to Kamala Harris and an expert on the Middle East, analyzes Israel's recent military actions against Iran. He explores the feasibility of Israel’s objectives and the implications for U.S. involvement in a potential conflict. Philip delves into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and the internal chaos within the National Security Council, questioning the effectiveness of current strategies in navigating the volatile landscape of Middle Eastern relations.
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Risks Beyond Israel's Initial Success
- Israel's airstrikes initially achieved significant success against Iran's nuclear program and military leadership.
- However, there is a high risk of unanticipated consequences including regional instability and difficult regime change outcomes.
Limits of Airstrikes and Missile Supplies
- Israel cannot change the Iranian regime through airstrikes alone and must consider the sustainability of its military campaign.
- Both sides face limits on missile and interceptor supplies, raising uncertainty about how long the conflict can continue.
U.S. Stance On Iran Conflict
- The U.S. faces a dilemma between staying out of Middle East conflicts and demonstrating power.
- Whether America joins the fight over Iran's deeply buried Fordow facility is the essential and uncertain question.