The Iran Podcast Iran’s Rivalry with the US
7 snips
May 3, 2025 
In this discussion, Professor Mohsen Milani, an expert in Iranian politics and author, shares insights from his latest book about Iran’s geopolitical ascent. He dives into the historical shift from alliance to rivalry between Iran and the U.S., particularly post-1979. Milani critiques the exaggerated narrative around Iranian influence, arguing it has waned recently. He emphasizes the necessity of diplomacy to ease tensions and warns of the dire consequences of military action, all while reflecting on the devastating impacts of war on civilians.
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Book Writing During COVID
- Mohsen Milani wrote his book during COVID lockdown with encouragement from his children.
- The writing was a pleasurable labor of love after decades of researching Iranian foreign policy.
Iran's Rise Fueled by Revolution and War
- Iran's 1979 revolution generated idealism and the desire to export the revolution.
- The US invasion of Iraq unintentionally catalyzed Iran's regional rise and military strength under Qasem al-Suleimani.
Limits of Iran's Forward Defense
- Iran's forward defense strategy expanded influence but at heavy costs and weak deterrence.
- Iranian power is currently diminished to about half of its peak despite exaggerations of control.