Holly Dagres

In this discussion, Ali Alfoneh, an Iranian-born political scientist, and Holly Dagres, a prominent Iran analyst, delve into the cycles of protest in Iran. They highlight the unique aspects of the current movement, linking economic crises and social frustrations to the 2022 Woman Life Freedom protests. The guests analyze the regime's oppressive tactics, the rise of national symbols, and the shifting aspirations of the Iranian people for democracy. They also explore the implications of foreign relations on Iran's internal dynamics, questioning the regime’s survival in this tumultuous climate.

Holly Dagres, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute, discusses the ongoing protests in Iran, exploring factors that make this uprising unique and the regime's vulnerabilities. Francisco Rodríguez, an economist from Venezuela, analyzes the country's political landscape, emphasizing the challenges of a post-Maduro future and the delicate balance between foreign investment and democratic demands. David Herzberg provides insight into the origins of the fentanyl crisis, linking it to complex supply chains and highlighting the need for demand-side solutions.

Carl Bildt, former Prime Minister of Sweden, dives into the intricate diplomacy surrounding Ukraine and discusses the delicate balance of support and territorial concessions. Joe Flint, from The Wall Street Journal, unpacks the drama of Warner Bros. Discovery's sale, revealing the fierce competition between big media players. Holly Dagres highlights Iran's severe water crisis with shocking insights into corruption and public discontent. Lastly, Tom Freston shares vibrant stories of MTV's impact on American culture and cautions against dwindling U.S. soft power in a changing world.

Naysan Rafati, Senior Iran analyst at the International Crisis Group, maps Tehran’s security and domestic strains. Holly Dagres, Iran specialist and Substack curator, traces protest history and social drivers. Alex Vatanka, Middle East Institute fellow, assesses regional fallout and strategic choices. They discuss protest scale, foreign intervention risks, governance failures, environmental stresses, and U.S. policy options.

Amos Harel, Haaretz military analyst and author, explains rising tensions in the West Bank, far-right influence, settler violence and shifting IDF dynamics. Holly Dagres, Iran analyst and Iranist newsletter curator, explores Gen Z’s defiance, protest culture, and how a globalized youth shapes Iran’s future.