Victor Davis Hanson: In His Own Words VDH: Iran Stalling Tactics, Reform Party Shock in Britain, Hephaestus & the Double Standard in U.S. Justice
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May 9, 2026 Discussions cover Iran's stalling tactics, missile and drone uncertainty, and the risks that create for U.S. economic and Israeli security. A look at Britain’s Reform surge as backlash against crime, open borders, and green energy. Urban decline and blunt critiques of Los Angeles governance come up. Ancient myths of Hephaestus and debates over a perceived double standard in U.S. justice are also explored.
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Expectation That Iranian Resistance Would Rise
- Hanson recounts expectations that an Iranian resistance would rise and be armed after initial strikes, which did not materialize.
- He says Trump hoped resistance activity would be greater and that arming them could change the conflict dynamics.
U.S. And Israel See Risk Differently
- Israel and the U.S. assess risk differently: Israel is directly vulnerable while the U.S. is distant and has larger resources.
- Hanson notes U.S. domestic politics amplifies critique of Israel, complicating shared strategy.
Reform Party Win Reflects Populist Backlash
- Nigel Farage's Reform Party surge reflects voter backlash against crime, open borders, green energy, and perceived national decline.
- Hanson connects British results to voters tired of elites, echoing MAGA-style populism.