Radio National Breakfast The history of U.S. Presidents and Iran
Mar 2, 2026
Jonathan Alter, political journalist and author of books on FDR, Obama and Carter, offers historical analysis of U.S.–Iran relations. He traces lessons from the 1953 coup and 1979 revolution. He weighs the chances of a royal comeback and explains why repression and regime change are risky. Short takes on differing tactics of past and present Iranian rulers.
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Presidential Rhetoric From Hostage Crisis To Threats
- The episode threads past U.S. presidential statements to show recurring rhetoric on Iran, from hostage crisis to recent threats.
- Patricia Karvelas and clips include Carter, unnamed presidents, and Trump-style declarations about Iran.
U.S. Policy Suffers From Historical Illiteracy
- U.S. leaders often lack historical context on Iran which shapes poor policy choices.
- Jonathan Alter argues this administration doesn't study the 1953 coup or 1979 revolution, reducing policy literacy.
Shah Restoration Seems Implausible Despite TV Image
- Restoring the Shah is implausible because he's been gone decades and left as a young exile, despite media appearances that make him seem plausible.
- Alter doubts political feasibility even after the Shah's son presented himself well on U.S. TV.