Bulwark Takes Trump Goes to War: Iran Strike Breaks Promise of No Regime Change
13 snips
Feb 28, 2026 
Mark Hertling, retired U.S. Army lieutenant general and military analyst, gives a frontline military perspective. He discusses escalation risks, allied reactions, and the challenges of strikes without clear political aims. Short-term tactics versus long-term strategy, regional fallout, and the limits of special operations all come up in concise, urgent conversation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trump's New Foreign Policy Pattern
- The strikes reflect a new Trump foreign policy of activist regime-targeting rather than great-power confrontation.
- Jonathan V. Last argued Trump avoids China/Russia but uses military force to reshape leadership in unfavored states, with Israel heavily driving the move.
Administration Now Acknowledges Casualty Risk
- Trump signaled potential U.S. casualties for the first time, suggesting recognition this is a different, riskier campaign.
- Hertling noted the president's prepared public for casualties, implying advisors expect a tough slog.
Legal Risk And Ally Confusion
- The operation risks turning the U.S. into an international pariah absent a clear legal justification.
- Mark Hertling warned allies are confused and some partners and veterans are texting shock, undermining coalition credibility.