School of War

Jonathan Hackett, a former U.S. Marine Corps interrogator and author of Theory of Irregular War, delves into the complexities of irregular warfare following America’s post-9/11 conflicts. He discusses the evolution of interrogation techniques, highlighting the shift from coercive methods to rapport-building. Hackett critiques U.S. military strategies in Iraq and Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for local engagement and understanding cultural contexts. He calls for a rethinking of military approaches and underscores the importance of non-military solutions in modern geopolitics.

Robert D. Kaplan, the Robert Strausz-Hupé Chair in Geopolitics, dives into the world's enduring crises. He reflects on his formative experiences in Far Rockaway and the significant literary influences that shaped his worldview. Kaplan draws parallels between historical and contemporary conflicts, notably the Balkans and Weimar Germany. He critiques the decline of Western leadership in a rapidly changing global landscape, while also discussing the impact of AI on education and individualism in modern cities. A captivating exploration of political and cultural dynamics!

Mick Ryan, a retired major general in the Australian Army and author of The War for Ukraine, dives into the complexities of the Ukrainian battlefield. He shares firsthand insights on the evolving roles of drones and the adaptability of military strategies. Ryan discusses the necessity of rethinking procurement for rapid response, and challenges the notion that artillery is obsolete. The conversation also touches on Putin's ambitions, the potential for a ceasefire, and the surprising resilience of military tactics in modern warfare.

In this discussion, military historians Thomas Bruscino and Mitchell G. Klingenberg dive into the intricate world of military mapping. They share insights on the limitations of traditional military maps and their vital role in strategic decisions. Exploring the Gettysburg Campaign, they highlight key moments of leadership under pressure, such as Meade's command. The duo emphasizes the importance of modern visualization techniques and teamwork in enhancing operational effectiveness, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of historical warfare.

John Hillen, a military veteran turned business leader and professor, dives into the art of strategic thinking across war and corporate life. He shares gripping stories from the Gulf War, particularly the pivotal Battle of 73 Easting, and reflects on witnessing the fall of the Iron Curtain. Hillen emphasizes that strategy is more than just setting goals; it requires real-time decision-making and foresight. Furthermore, he explores the surprising connections between gaming and military history, revealing how the Call of Duty franchise enhances civics education.

Mark Moyar, a military historian and author, shares insights on the Vietnam War's pivotal moments. He discusses the orthodox versus revisionist views on U.S. involvement and the influence of the anti-war movement. The complexities of Ho Chi Minh’s dual identity as a nationalist and communist are explored, alongside the consequences of the 1963 coup that deepened American engagement. Moyar also examines Nixon's strategies, including Vietnamization, and reflects on the war's fallout, emphasizing the lasting impact on American memory.

Douglas Murray, a renowned journalist and author of 'On Democracies and Death Cults,' discusses pivotal issues around Israel's ongoing conflict and its broader implications. He critiques oversimplified historical comparisons, labeling some ideological groups as ‘death cults.’ Murray explores the intricate relationships between anti-Semitism and identity, reflecting on the influence of events like 9/11. He also examines the shifting dynamics of the American Right, urging a nuanced understanding of political ideologies in today’s complex landscape.

Raymond Jonas, Jon Bridgman Endowed Professor in History, delves into the dramatic 19th-century European attempts to undermine the Monroe Doctrine. He uncovers the complexities of transatlantic relations during the American Civil War, the ambitions of Napoleon III, and Maximilian I's intriguing yet doomed reign in Mexico. The conversation highlights how European powers aimed to alter the political landscape and the resilience of Mexican forces. Jonas also reflects on the unexpected implications for American sovereignty and modernization in the wake of these initiatives.

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.

Michael Doran, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, dives into the concept of 'restraintism' in U.S. foreign policy. He discusses how this ideology influenced Trump's decisions in the Middle East, contrasting them with Obama's approach. Doran also tackles the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, the impact of economic considerations on policy, and the tensions between Turkey and Israel. He sheds light on the challenges of negotiating peace while balancing regional dynamics, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of American interests abroad.