Podcasts

Iran’s regional position is at a turning point. With the Assad regime’s growing instability, Hezbollah’s military leadership facing major setbacks, and Israel ramping up its strikes inside Iran, Tehran’s influence in the Middle East is being tested. Meanwhile, the recent hostage deal and the potential return of Donald Trump raise even more questions about Iran’s future. Is Iran on the defensive, or is it preparing its next strategic move? In today’s episode, we examine Iran’s shifting regional position, its reaction to the hostage deal, and how the possible return of Donald Trump could reshape US policy toward Tehran. What role will Israel play in these dynamics, and how will Netanyahu’s visit to Washington influence US decision-making? Joining us to break it all down is Beni Sabti, Iran Expert at the Institute for National Security Studies @INSSisrael, who brings deep insights into Iran’s strategy and decision-making.

Israel recently launched a series of targeted airstrikes on Iranian military infrastructure across multiple provinces. It was an unprecedented move with the goal of weakening Iran’s air defense systems and missile capabilities, following Iran’s recent launch of nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. The escalation underscores the deepening confrontation between the two nations since the outbreak of hostilities in October last year, with Israel determined to curb Iran’s influence in the region, disrupt its proxy networks, and undermine its defensive assets. Iran has established itself as the driving force behind the “axis of resistance” against Israel, openly broadcasting its antagonism. However, that’s not the general sentiment among the Iranian people. On this week’s episode of the National Security Podcast, Iran expert at the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), Beni Sabti, discusses the history between the Jewish and Persian people, and how the Islamic Revolution has reshaped Iran’s view on Israel and the West.