Graham Wood

Graham Wood, Atlantic staff writer focused on the Middle East. Michael Warren, senior editor and political commentator. Mike Nelson, retired Army Special Forces officer and military analyst. They discuss the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, reported leadership hits, timing and motives, uncertainty about end states, regional reactions, risks of blowback, and who might fill any power vacuum.

Graham Wood, a staff writer and expert on jihadist movements, delves into the persistent threat of ISIS, explaining how it continues to inspire violence worldwide. He discusses recent deadly attacks linked to the group in Syria and Australia, highlighting their evolving tactics and recruitment strategies, particularly in the Philippines. Wood emphasizes the connection between world events, like the Gaza conflict, and ISIS's ability to motivate isolated actors. Despite the loss of its caliphate, he argues that ISIS's simple ideology still resonates with many, fueling ongoing local terrorism.