I Asked a Former Trump Official to Justify This War

The conversation centers on Donald Trump's foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran, and whether his actions align with a consistent doctrine. Nadia Schadlow, former deputy national security advisor, offers insights into Trump's perspective, describing it as "flexible realism," which prioritizes national interests and a strong deterrent posture. She argues Trump sees global institutions as failures, preferring direct action and bilateral negotiations. The discussion explores whether Trump's approach is a departure from traditional foreign policy, highlighting his willingness to take risks and challenge established norms, such as seeking Congressional approval before military action. Schadlow acknowledges the uncertainty inherent in war and emphasizes the importance of post-conflict planning, drawing lessons from past interventions.