Lawrence Freedman

Sir Lawrence Freedman, emeritus professor of war studies and leading military historian, gives a blunt strategic verdict on the US campaign in Iran. He critiques poor planning and risk assessment. Topics include oil disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, tactical wins versus strategic failure, lessons (not) learned from Iraq, escalation risks, and the wider geopolitical winners and losers.

Lawrence Freedman, an Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King’s College London, discusses the complexities of achieving peace in Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. He delves into the contrasting expectations of Russia and Ukraine, territorial disputes, and the impact of American strategies. The conversation also highlights the evolution of warfare, particularly the role of drones, and the divided U.S. perspectives on foreign policy. Freedman emphasizes the potential for the conflict to persist, influenced by economic challenges and political motivations from both sides.

Sir Lawrence Freedman, eminent historian of strategy at King’s College London, offers a concise read on the war’s current posture. He discusses rising Russian casualties and whether a spring offensive has begun. He examines Putin’s political troubles, Russia–Iran intelligence ties, and why partition alone cannot deliver peace. He also outlines where Ukraine stands now and what Europe should do next.

Lawerence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King’s College London and author of ‘The Age of Forever Wars’, shares his insights on the nature of protracted conflicts. He discusses the challenges military planners face balancing quick victories with the reality of enduring wars, using Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine as key examples. Freedman critiques current military strategies and emphasizes the need for clear political goals. He also explores historical mistakes and the ongoing resilience of conflicts like Israel and Hamas, while questioning Putin's persistent aggression.

Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies at King's College London, sheds light on the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and its broader implications. He discusses Israel's surprise attacks on Iranian sites and the geopolitical motivations driving these actions. Freedman explores the complexities of U.S. involvement, emphasizing how domestic politics influence international relations. Additionally, he reflects on the shifting military dynamics in the Middle East and the potential ramifications for regional stability. A riveting analysis of conflict and strategy in a tumultuous landscape.

Vladimir Putin's role as supreme commander has been center stage, offering a floundering and frightful performance. To understand the present, we reach back to the past. In the first of a multi-part series of episodes, Lawrence Freedman and Michael Kofman walk us through the post-Cold War history of the Kremlin and especially Putin as commander, starting with the First Chechen War through the short Russo-Georgian War (2008). In doing so, Freedman draws on his new book, Command: The Politics of Military Operations from Korea to Ukraine (https://amzn.to/3qYxPEF).

Gideon interviews historian and writer Lawrence Freedman about Israel's challenges in dealing with Hamas and finding a viable alternative government. They explore the recent security lapse on the Gaza border, compare the conflict to global crises, and discuss the potential consequences of Biden's lack of diplomatic victory.

Sir Lawrence Freedman, a renowned British historian and strategist, offers insights into the current geopolitical landscape. He analyzes the recent conflict between Israel and Iran, questioning the success of U.S. involvement. Freedman delves into the challenges faced by Russia in the Ukraine war, emphasizing the difficulty of finding a resolution and the implications of continued stalemate. He argues that the future of warfare may not rely as heavily on drones as often thought, providing a fresh perspective on evolving military strategies.

Lawrence Freedman, Emeritus Professor of War Studies, and David Gauke, former Justice Secretary, delve into pressing global and domestic issues. Freedman discusses the fracturing Western alliance and the geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine and Russia, emphasizing Europe's defense challenges. Gauke contrasts this with the UK prison system's pressing need for reform, advocating for smarter crime reduction and rehabilitation over incarceration. Together, they explore how political dynamics shape national security and justice.

In this insightful discussion, guest Sharone Lifschitz shares a deeply personal account of her parents' abduction by Hamas, reflecting on the devastating impact on families amid the ongoing conflict. Alongside Lawrence Freedman, an Emeritus Professor of War Studies, they analyze the drastic escalation of violence in the Middle East and the emotional toll on civilians. The conversation also explores the complexities of peace negotiations and the growing humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for understanding and resolution in this tumultuous region.