Impolitic with John Heilemann Wendy Sherman: Incursions, Excursions, & Dire Straits (of Hormuz, That Is)
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Mar 13, 2026 
Wendy Sherman, experienced U.S. diplomat and lead negotiator of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, weighs in on the widening war with Iran. She assesses strategic failures, mixed messaging from the Trump administration, and economic shocks from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. They discuss risks of ground troops, civilian harm, nuclear constraints, and whether a viable off-ramp exists.
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Build Diplomacy And Logistics Before Military Action
- Do build coalitions and plan logistics before using force; military strength without diplomatic groundwork fails strategically.
- Sherman emphasizes diplomacy takes time, requires experts, and cannot be a 'drive-by' effort.
War Lacked Strategy And Planning
- Donald Trump launched the war with tactical competence but no strategic plan, leaving U.S. forces exposed and allies uncoordinated.
- Wendy Sherman notes no evacuation plan, no coalition building, and unclear objectives, producing low domestic and international support (44%).
Iran Uses Oil As Strategic Leverage
- Iran deliberately leverages energy markets as a weapon, using the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on tankers to drive prices and pressure the U.S. politically.
- Sherman explains Iran planned succession and military responses, has large IRGC/Quds forces, and can exploit U.S. market sensitivity to oil.