

Coffee House Shots: 'what the f***' is going on in Iran?
10 snips Jun 24, 2025
Michael Stephens, a senior fellow at the Royal United Services Institute and expert in Middle East politics, shares his insights on the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. He discusses the impact of Donald Trump's frustrations on U.S. foreign policy and the challenges of navigating this complex conflict. The conversation also addresses Keir Starmer's political struggles within the Labour party and the implications of recent welfare rebellions. Additionally, they explore NATO's urgent need for unity in the face of growing threats, particularly from Russia.
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Missile Strike as Performative Gesture
- Iran and Qatar coordinated a missile strike to let Iran save face amidst the conflict escalation.
- Trump’s social media revelations undermined Iran’s gesture, complicating ceasefire efforts and trust.
Trump’s Frustration with Israel and Iran
- Trump expressed rare frustration toward both Iran and Israel, especially Netanyahu.
- His anger partly stems from feeling he aided Israel and expected reciprocation on ceasefire compliance.
Trump Reshapes Diplomacy Formats
- Trump’s diplomatic style is reshaping international summits, forcing condensed meetings to prevent him from overshadowing events.
- The NATO summit was altered into a short session to accommodate this change.