Three Things the Consensus Gets Wrong About the Iran War
Things might not be as bleak as they are generally portrayed.

Things might not be as bleak as they are generally portrayed.

The U.S. is fighting Iran under the worst wartime political leadership America has ever had.

What we have learned about the strengths and weaknesses of the American way of war

The past half century reveals a record not of constant brilliance, but of consistent folly.

Those who favor the conflict with Iran and those who oppose it are each making a very large error.

The United States has seldom waged the sort of campaign now under way in Iran.

The case for a little epistemic humility

Having sophisticated, creative, and bold partners that can operate at scale is invaluable to the United States.

The uncertainties of Trump’s attack on Iran are enough to justify some queasy doubts.

Presidential oratory once sought to elevate its audience, through high seriousness and artful rhetoric, but also by being high-minded and fair.
