Iran Conflict: How Long, and How Bad?

The podcast explores the potential duration, key player stakes, and pathways to restoring global energy flows amidst the ongoing Iran conflict. Sanam Vakil from Chatham House suggests Iran views the conflict as an existential battle for regime survival, aiming to increase the war's cost for all involved parties to secure guarantees against future conflicts. Ambassador Dennis Ross emphasizes the Strait of Hormuz's strategic importance, arguing that the U.S. needs to demonstrate control there, possibly through convoys, to declare an end to the war. Vice Admiral Kevin Donegan confirms the U.S. and its allies' capability to navigate the strait but notes convoys alone cannot restore normal oil flows, highlighting the need for Iran to cease threatening ships and address its internal economic and political challenges.