Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast Discussing the Context of the US Bombing Iran with Robert Malley
31 snips
Jul 1, 2025 
Robert Malley, a Yale lecturer and lead negotiator of the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal, brings valuable insights into the latest US-Iran conflict. He discusses the complexities surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions and the ramifications of recent military actions. Malley reflects on the historical context of the 2015 deal and its unraveling under Trump's presidency. He also dives into the emotional dynamics of diplomatic negotiations and the fragile state of the Iranian regime, shedding light on the prospects for future peace.
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Malley's Unique Family Background
- Robert Malley comes from a unique family background blending Egyptian Jewish and Arab nationalist roots.
- His parents' diverse influences shaped his understanding of Middle Eastern conflicts and diplomacy.
Clear Goal of 2015 Deal
- The 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal aimed to keep Iran at least a year away from a bomb for 10 years with intrusive inspections.
- This goal was clear and focused solely on limiting nuclear weapons development, not broader political aims.
Iran's Nuclear Hedging Strategy
- Iran's nuclear program was a hedging strategy due to past vulnerabilities and threats from Iraq and others.
- They pursued civilian nuclear options while maintaining potential for weapons development as leverage.