In this episode of Ami’s House, we dive into why American isolationists are misreading the Iran conflict and, in doing so, undermining their own objectives. Featuring an insightful conversation with Mark Dubowitz– CEO of non-profit thinktank Foundation for Defense of Democracies– we unpack the pitfalls of isolationist rhetoric, explore on-the-ground realities, and discuss what constructive engagement might look like. Whether you follow Middle East foreign policy closely or are just curious about the human impact behind headlines, this episode sheds light on how U.S. isolationism can backfire and what genuine support might entail.

We cover:

• Historical Context: Understand pre-1979 Iran, the Shah’s era, and how the Islamic Republic consolidated power.
• Myth-Busting: Learn why common narratives (e.g., “Argo”) misrepresent key events and how that shapes public perception.
• Nuclear Threat Analysis: Explore the strategic factors driving Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Israel’s responses, and why timing matters.
• U.S. Policy & Isolationism: Discover how calls to “avoid escalation” can paradoxically make war more likely by undermining credible deterrence.
• Civil Resistance & Regime Change: Hear about the growing Iranian protest movements, Operation Rising Lion, and how external support might tip the balance.

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Mike's podcast "Iran Breakdown" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WyoGsvpl3c&list=PLmEsAFBNkqsMQnt5pypwEX0ul0NyIjd3E

Join the Conversation:
Do you think U.S. isolationist policies help or hinder stability in the Middle East? Have you seen gaps between American debate and on-the-ground realities? Let us know your thoughts! Comments!

00:00 – Iran Under the Shah vs. the 1979 Islamic Revolution
02:50 – Debunking “Argo” and the 1953 Coup Narrative
04:31 – Khomeini’s Rise
06:08 – Succession of Ali Khamenei
07:03 – The Ayatollah's Biggest Miscalculation
12:22 – Why NOW? The Closing Window on Iran’s Nuclear Program
22:20 – What are the threats to the U.S. if it attacks Iran?
28:16 – The Regime's Vulnerability
38:28 – Operation Rising Lion: Supporting the Iranian People to Overthrow the Regime
45:22 Candace Owens, Tucker Carlson, and What the Isolationists Don't Get