Episode 31 of the Rational Policy Podcast sees your hosts Mike Coté and Art Vandelay discuss the developments in the Iran War after a month of intense fighting. First, however, we spend some time praising the incredible Artemis II mission and America’s return to the Moon, a beacon of national unity in a time of political strife. In the war update, we break down Trump’s address to the nation, mentioning the rhetorical successes and what was left on the cutting room floor. We talk about the stated rationale for the conflict, the progress detailed by the president, and the potential endgame for the war. Issues like the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear material, and the future of its ballistic missile and drone program are mentioned. We also discuss how this war is reshaping regional and global alliances, the role of outside actors in reopening the Strait, and the recent firing of a top Army official by Secretary of War Hegseth.
