Alternate Shots with Richard Haass and John Ellis

A fast-paced look at how disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could squeeze global fuel supplies. They tackle low-tech threats like sea mines and drones, the impracticalities of convoying tankers, and the insurance panic around crew safety. Strategic tradeoffs get focus: blockades, China’s calculations, and how US attention in the region reshapes global readiness and politics.

They unpack the endgame of a US-Israel-Iran conflict, debating who must agree to stop fighting and what leverage each side holds. Iran’s threat to the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on oil markets gets attention. The conversation widens to how Russia and China benefit, the strain on U.S. munitions for Ukraine and Taiwan, and the need to adapt to cheap drone warfare.

A brisk unpacking of U.S. strategy toward Iran and whether current plans match realistic goals. A look at strained air-defense stockpiles and how low-cost drones and missiles shift the balance. Discussion of how a widening Middle East fight could boost Russia, drain support for Ukraine, and intensify domestic political pressure. Ends with a quick sports roundup.

They discuss U.S. military buildup around Iran and whether showy force masks a lack of strategy. They break down a Supreme Court ruling that leaves tariff policy unpredictable. They examine escalating cartel violence in Mexico and the risks it poses north of the border. They touch on public worries about diminishing presidential capacity and end with a light take on Olympic hockey triumphs.

In this episode of Alternate Shots, John Ellis and Richard Haass begin with the recent Munich Security Conference. A focus is Marco Rubio's speech, which was praised by some but did little to reassure on Ukraine or on US support for a democratic Europe.The conversation shifts to Asia, where Japan is undergoing a historic transformation in its national security posture, strengthening its defense and moving closer to Taiwan, much to China's dismay. Meanwhile, in North Korea, internal dynamics are drawing attention, particularly the emerging public profile of Kim Jong Un's daughter, which may signal new uncertainties over succession.Ellis and Haass also explore the impact of AI on the economy. AI is reshaping -- sooner than anticipated -- how companies operate, threatening traditional software models while opening new possibilities for efficiency and innovation, leading among other things to short-selling of software companies.As always, the episode concludes with the sports world: the remarkable comeback of golfer Anthony Kim, Collin Morikawa's victory at the AT&T, and the big news from the Olympics: the condom shortage in the host village.Hosted by John Ellis and Richard HaassNews Items on SubstackHome and Away on SubstackProduced by Dale Eisinger 

In episode 16 of Alternate Shots, John Ellis and Richard Haassbegin with Iran and the critical question of how the U.S. defines “success” as well as the limits to what military force could accomplish. They then turn to the expiration of the New Start, the last remaining U.S.-Russians ams control pact, and the even bigger problem of horizontal proliferation—particularly if countries like South Korea and Japan begin doubting U.S. security guarantees. The discussion turns to concerns about the integrity of the upcoming U.S. midterm elections. Ellis and Haass examine the potential for voter suppression and inaccurate counts by the Trump administration, casting doubt on the willingness of Republicans in Congress to stand up for democratic stability. They also reflect on the decline of major media institutions in light of the massive firings at The Washington Post. The episode concludes with lighter fare: Super Bowl predictions along with explanations of why Ellis loves curling and Haass the biathlon.Hosted by John Ellis and Richard HaassNews Items on SubstackHome and Away on SubstackProduced by Dale Eisinger 

They wrestle with the muddled US approach to unrest in Iran and whether coercive force or economic pressure makes sense. They debate a centrist path on immigration and the professionalization of enforcement. They warn about a brain drain of STEM PhDs from government and its threat to U.S. competitiveness. They also call out a controversial Hall of Fame snub and question the future of a rival golf league.

They debate the idea of a new "real estate doctrine" in U.S. foreign policy using Greenland as a case study. They probe a shift from alliance consent to coercion and its effects on credibility. They dissect a controversial Davos speech and rising worries about a leader's mental fitness. The conversation questions a proposed Board of Peace and closes with spirited NFL matchup predictions.

The discussion dives deep into Iran's protests and the complexities of U.S. policy options. Venezuela's struggles illustrate the challenges of American foreign action, especially in oil investment. Trump's controversial Greenland proposal is deemed counterproductive, while insights into Cuba's potential collapse are explored. The political landscape heats up with predictions of voter suppression in the upcoming midterms. As a break from heavy topics, the hosts shift gears to tackle college and pro football, analyzing teams and players with humor.

Hosts dive into the complexities of U.S. intervention in Venezuela, framing it as a leadership change rather than mere regime change. They explore the motivations behind the operation, including oil access and drug trade, while cautioning about the potential pitfalls of failed arrangements. The geopolitical landscape is examined, revealing how Russia and China might actually benefit. The conversation also touches on Trump’s unpredictable comments and contrasts Venezuela’s situation with that of neighboring Mexico and Colombia, questioning the coherence of U.S. strategy.