School of War
Ep 191: Mark Dubowitz on Iran and the Trump Administration
Apr 22, 2025
Mark Dubowitz, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and host of The Iran Breakdown podcast, is a leading expert on Iran's nuclear ambitions. In the discussion, he dives into Iran's evolving nuclear program and the ramifications of U.S. policy under the Trump administration. He provides insights into uranium enrichment and the potential for weaponization. Dubowitz also explores the implications of the JCPOA and the strategic landscape of Iran-Israel tensions, emphasizing the risks and complexities of negotiations in the region.
45:56
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Quick takeaways
- Iran's nuclear program, bolstered by decades of development and concealment, continues to pose significant strategic risks to U.S. credibility and regional stability.
- The withdrawal from the JCPOA by the Trump administration has complicated diplomatic relations and raised concerns over potential nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Iran's Nuclear Program
Iran's commitment to its nuclear program spans several decades, initially emerging during the reign of the Shah with U.S. support for civilian nuclear energy. Following the Islamic Revolution, the program gained renewed focus, especially after fears of U.S. military intervention in the region, particularly post-Iraq invasion, prompted Iran to conceal its nuclear ambitions. Key evidence of Iran's weaponization activities includes enriched uranium levels and clandestine projects maintained to develop warheads. The continuation of enrichment, especially to 60%, suggests military intentions behind their nuclear efforts, raising alarms over potential nuclear capabilities.
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