Today, Explained America First (unless Iran...)
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Jun 23, 2025 
Josh Keating, a senior correspondent at Vox specializing in foreign policy and national security, dives into the complex implications of U.S. military actions against Iran. He discusses the ineffective outcomes of bombing Iran and the escalating tensions that may arise. The conversation highlights the unpredictable nature of U.S. foreign policy and the historical context of Iran's nuclear ambitions. Keating emphasizes that military engagement could burden the U.S. while unraveling international relations in the region, revealing a multifaceted view on this geopolitical issue.
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U.S. Bombs Iran's Nuclear Sites
- The U.S. bombed Iran's nuclear program, targeting Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan facilities.
- This marked a significant policy shift from recent diplomacy to military action without clear congressional or global support.
Trump's Shift Toward Israel
- President Trump shifted from diplomatic talks to supporting Israeli-led strikes against Iran.
- This contradicts his prior stance of restraint and signals a tighter U.S.-Israel alignment on Iran policy.
Strategic Nuclear Program Origin
- Iran's nuclear program began before the revolution, initially for industrial energy purposes.
- Iran uses its nuclear program strategically to gain leverage in negotiations and resist U.S. sanctions.