In the latest episode of Right Now With Perry Bacon, political scientist Elizabeth Saunders of Columbia University—an expert in U.S. foreign policy—outlined the stark choices facing President Donald Trump in resolving the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Saunders argues that Trump’s only viable options are escalation or humiliation. Escalation, she explains, would entail total destruction of Iran—a scenario Trump has repeatedly hinted at if negotiations fail. Humiliation, by contrast, would involve negotiating a deal that provides sanctions relief to Iran and/or permits it to continue developing nuclear weapons in some capacity, all while maintaining a regime openly hostile to the United States.
Saunders emphasizes that Iran’s current leadership is more radical than its predecessors, who were removed after U.S. and Israeli operations. This shift has further complicated diplomatic efforts.
She also points to Iran’s strategic leverage: its control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. This control has driven up oil prices, strengthening Iran’s negotiating position on the world stage.
Watch the full episode of Right Now With Perry Bacon here on YouTube or subscribe via Substack.
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