Holly Dagres

In this discussion, Ali Alfoneh, an Iranian-born political scientist, and Holly Dagres, a prominent Iran analyst, delve into the cycles of protest in Iran. They highlight the unique aspects of the current movement, linking economic crises and social frustrations to the 2022 Woman Life Freedom protests. The guests analyze the regime's oppressive tactics, the rise of national symbols, and the shifting aspirations of the Iranian people for democracy. They also explore the implications of foreign relations on Iran's internal dynamics, questioning the regime’s survival in this tumultuous climate.

Holly Dagres, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute, discusses the ongoing protests in Iran, exploring factors that make this uprising unique and the regime's vulnerabilities. Francisco Rodríguez, an economist from Venezuela, analyzes the country's political landscape, emphasizing the challenges of a post-Maduro future and the delicate balance between foreign investment and democratic demands. David Herzberg provides insight into the origins of the fentanyl crisis, linking it to complex supply chains and highlighting the need for demand-side solutions.

Carl Bildt, former Prime Minister of Sweden, dives into the intricate diplomacy surrounding Ukraine and discusses the delicate balance of support and territorial concessions. Joe Flint, from The Wall Street Journal, unpacks the drama of Warner Bros. Discovery's sale, revealing the fierce competition between big media players. Holly Dagres highlights Iran's severe water crisis with shocking insights into corruption and public discontent. Lastly, Tom Freston shares vibrant stories of MTV's impact on American culture and cautions against dwindling U.S. soft power in a changing world.

Holly Dagres, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council focusing on Iran, joins Marc Owen Jones, an expert on digital disinformation. They dive into the bold protests led by Gen Z in Iran following Mahsa Amini's death, highlighting how young activists smartly harnessed social media. Discussion includes the human cost of these protests with tragic accounts of young vloggers, the rise of hashtag wars, and the challenges posed by government censorship. They also explore the complexities of online narratives and the importance of following credible sources.

Ruth Sherlock, an NPR foreign correspondent known for her on-the-ground updates in Iran, joins Holly Dagres, an Iran analyst with deep-rooted ties to the country. They discuss the ongoing protests against the Iranian regime amid violent crackdowns, with alarming casualty figures reported. Holly highlights how these protests differ from past movements, fueled by a desire for democratic change. They also tackle the implications of U.S. diplomacy and potential consequences for the protesters, emphasizing the challenges of communication for families in exile.