Why This War Could Be a “Turning Point” for the Global Order - Vali Nasr | Endgame #261

The podcast explores Iran's historical experiences and national security perspective, particularly its relations with the US and its endurance under pressure. Vali Nasr, professor at Johns Hopkins and senior advisor at CSIS, argues that Iran's foreign policy is rooted in a long history of struggle against imperialism and a desire for independence, rather than solely in its Islamic identity. He draws parallels between Iran's historical grievances and China's, emphasizing the importance of understanding this historical context to grasp Iran's current stance. Nasr suggests that the collapse of the JCPOA has led to the current conflict and that Supreme Leader Mushtaba Khamenei's rise signals a more hardline approach, potentially impacting nuclear non-proliferation and regional stability. He also notes the complex dynamics between Shia and Sunni Muslims in the context of resistance to American influence.