Newshour President Trump hits out at US allies over Iran
Mar 31, 2026
Robert Malley, former US Special Envoy for Iran and foreign policy analyst. He argues the war with Iran cannot be won and should end now. He explores China’s potential role as a broker and Tehran’s motivations around nuclear choices. Short, sharp discussion of the Strait of Hormuz and why military fixes are inadequate.
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Shipping Might Pay Tolls Instead Of Militarily Escorted Transit
- Shipping and governments may opt to "pay for safe transit" if Iran extracts tolls rather than accept military escort.
- Rowlands notes legal and normative complications would make tolls a problematic long-term solution.
Acknowledge Limits Of Royal Navy Capacity
- The UK navy's capacity has shrunk over decades despite increased individual ship lethality, so it cannot be everywhere at once.
- Professor Kevin Rowlands warns reduced force levels and recent Middle East drawdowns limit rapid responses.
War Likely Ends By Fatigue Not A Big Deal
- Robert Malley argued this war cannot be won decisively and the priority should be to end it, likely when President Trump declares he's done.
- He suggests China could play a role persuading Iran to stop because of its ties and energy dependence.