The Monocle Daily An increasingly isolated Trump weighs next steps in the war in Iran
12 snips
Mar 17, 2026 
Philippe Mallier, UCL professor of French and European politics, and Alex von Tunzelman, historian and author. They discuss European leaders' refusal to join action in Iran. They weigh US–Israeli aims versus European fears of escalation. They examine how Iran–Israel tensions distract from Ukraine and probe the repolarisation of French local politics.
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Counterterrorism Chief's Resignation Echoes Conspiracies
- Joe Kent, director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, resigned and published a letter mixing praise for Trump with antisemitic insinuations.
- Alex highlights the letter's stab-in-the-back framing and its appeal to MAGA audiences, signalling possible political ambitions.
Iran War Diverts Support From Ukraine
- The Iran conflict distracts from Ukraine and financially benefits Russia via higher oil revenues.
- Philippe Mallier warns multiple global crises dilute attention and aid for Zelensky's campaign in Europe and reliance on US support remains critical.
Russia Profits Even As Its Prestige Is Tested
- Russia gains economically while losing some prestige; higher oil sales have produced large windfalls even as its security partnerships are tested.
- Alex notes Russia's windfall and questions whether prestige losses matter given financial gains.