Pod Save the World Trump Goes from Obliteration to Negotiation on Iran
93 snips
Mar 25, 2026 
Edward Fishman, director at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of Chokepoints, explains how economic warfare reshapes conflict. He discusses sudden U.S. reversals on Iran, suspicious market trades ahead of announcements, and the strategic power of choke points like the Strait of Hormuz. Short takes cover oil flows, sanctions relief, and how economic leverage can become the battlefield.
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Why A Durable Iran Deal Is Extremely Difficult
- Reaching a US–Iran deal is hard because Iran distrusts the US, feels it now has leverage, and wants long-term guarantees against future bombing.
- Iran's demands include simultaneous ceasefires, sanctions relief, reparations, and recognition of enrichment and missile rights.
Sanctions Waiver Gave Iran Massive Short-Term Windfall
- The US allowed Iran to sell about 140 million barrels, potentially raising ~$14 billion during the war, which goes beyond 2015 JCPOA relief.
- Edward Fishman warns this rewards coercion and undermines future leverage.
Military Build Up Continued Despite 'Pause'
- Large US amphibious ships and 82nd Airborne elements were deployed to the Middle East during the pause, signaling preparations for potential ground operations.
- Ben Rhodes notes the force posture resembles a campaign to support seizing targets like Karg Island.
