The Big Story A post‑Khamenei Iran faces deep divisions
Mar 3, 2026
Nader Hashemi, Georgetown professor of Middle East politics, and Thomas Juneau, University of Ottawa international affairs professor, discuss Iran after Khamenei’s death. They explore Canada’s backing of U.S. strikes, how Iranian institutions might respond, the limits of external calls for uprising, and the geopolitical risks of military action. Short, sharp takes on regime resilience and international fallout.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Canada's Foreign Policy Is Shaped By U.S. Proximity
- Canadian foreign policy decisions are routinely shaped by managing the U.S. relationship.
- Juneau notes geography and dependence make Ottawa prioritise U.S. ties over principle, not just under Trump.
Judge Carney By Actions Not Just Davos Rhetoric
- Evaluate rhetoric versus action before judging a leader's policies.
- Juneau suggests reading Carney's Davos speech in the broader context of his trips and engagements to see consistent realism.
A Long Iran War Threatens Trump's Political Base
- Prolonged conflict risks eroding Trump's domestic support and raising oil prices before U.S. midterms.
- Juneau warns sustained war could split MAGA isolationists and create voter anger over inflation.