
newsJun 23, 202656:46pending
The Iran War Is Ending. Everybody Lost.
About this episode
Four months ago, the U.S. and Israel launched a surprise attack on Iran. Supporters predicted a decisive victory that would curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions and reshape the balance of power in the Middle East. Instead, the war became a costly stalemate. Iran's power continued, the conflict dragged on, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted global energy markets, sending economic shockwaves around the world.
Now, a ceasefire has ended the fighting. But critics argue that the agreement gives Iran major concessions in exchange for empty promises about its nuclear program that prove difficult to enforce.
Today, Karim Sadjadpour returns to the podcast to examine the end of the Iran war. Why did the Trump administration agree to this deal, and will history remember it as a necessary compromise or a strategic failure?
Subscribe to our YouTube channel here:https://www.youtube.com/@PlainEnglishwithDerekThompson
If you have questions, observations, or ideas for future episodes, email us at [email protected].
Host: Derek ThompsonGuest: Karim SadjadpourProducer: Devon BaroldiAdditional Production Support: Ben Glicksman
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get every episode summarized
Each time Plain English with Derek Thompson publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Plain English with Derek Thompson

What’s the Point of College?
Plain English with Derek Thompson
Sep 11, 202656:50completed

The New Book That Scares Big Tech
Plain English with Derek Thompson
Sep 8, 202659:01completed

AI Slop Is Breaking the Internet. Can We Save It?
Plain English with Derek Thompson
Sep 1, 202656:08pending

Why Everything Is Going to Keep Getting More Expensive
Plain English with Derek Thompson
Aug 25, 202641:54pending