The Iran Reckoning with Afshon Ostovar

Join renowned Iran expert Afshon Ostovar as he explores the strategic dynamics, military developments, and geopolitical tensions shaping Iran and its partners, rivals, and interests in the Middle East and beyond.

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Where Is the Iranian Regime Headed in 2026?

The Iran Reckoning with Afshon Ostovar
Afshon Ostovar, Behnam Ben Taleblu, and Nicole Grajewski
January 5, 2026

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Episode Notes:

Afshon is joined by Behnam Ben Taleblu from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Nicole Grajewski from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. They assess how the Iranian regime is responding to its security realities following the Israeli and U.S. strikes in June 2025, including how it's rebuilding its missile program, re-evaluating its retaliatory capabilities, and pursuing status.

Image: Ali Khamenei via Wikimedia Commons