The Editors Episode 861: Off-Ramp Rumblings
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Mar 31, 2026 Dan Foster, former National Review staffer and occasional back-page columnist, joins the panel. They debate U.S. options in the Strait of Hormuz, risks of withdrawal, and possible fractured outcomes in Iran. The conversation also covers recent military strikes, practicality of island seizures versus escort missions, and a notable Colorado Supreme Court free-speech ruling.
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Strait Of Hormuz Outcome Is Uncertain
- The Strait of Hormuz outcome is wide open and shaped by strategic misdirection and Trump's penchant for keeping off-ramps.
- Dan Foster and Rich Lowry note leaks, jawboning, and competing staff-level options create uncertainty about a true U.S. endgame.
Plan For Political Endstates Not Just Targets
- Do not equate counting destroyed targets with political victory; plan for political endstates and potential follow-on operations.
- Noah warns that escort or ground missions require neutralizing Iran's remaining missile and drone capacity first.
Tactical Successes Won't Guarantee Strategic Endstate
- Military strikes have degraded Iran's strike and supply capabilities, but eliminating the long-term maritime threat without regime change is unlikely.
- Noah Rothman emphasizes tactical victories, dynamic targeting, and that Iran's offensive capacity may be worn down but not eradicated politically.
