Elliot Abrams

Walter Russell Mead, a foreign-policy scholar, and Elliott Abrams, a seasoned diplomat, dive into the transformative shifts in the Middle East. They discuss how Israel's military victories have altered regional dynamics yet failed to stabilize relations with Saudi Arabia. Abrams emphasizes the necessity of U.S. power for stability, especially in light of Iran's threats. Mead analyzes the hesitance of Russia and China to engage directly in the conflict. Together, they explore the future of Gaza and the complexity of U.S.–Israel ties shaped by historical and religious narratives.

This episode features Elliott Abrams, a former U.S. official and advocate for regime change in Venezuela, and Tom Bowman, an NPR Pentagon correspondent. Abrams argues that military strikes are necessary for change in Venezuela, emphasizing a strategy that includes amnesty for defecting officials. He also analyzes the potential for Maduro to survive sustained U.S. pressure. Bowman discusses the Pentagon's controversial strike orders, raising accountability questions amidst the scrutiny over military actions. The conversation reveals deep implications for both U.S. foreign policy and Venezuelan democracy.

In this engaging conversation, Elliott Abrams, a senior fellow for Middle Eastern studies and former Deputy National Security Advisor, shares insights on the challenges of achieving a ceasefire in Gaza. He discusses the intricate dynamics of hostage negotiations and how they complicate peace efforts. Abrams highlights the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing impact of the conflict on regional diplomacy, especially Israel's relationships with Gulf states. The conversation also touches on the internal complexities of Israeli politics and the broader geopolitical implications.