A closer look at two of the key issues driving the Iran War

Seven months in, the Iran War continues to hinge on two critical issues: maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and the trajectory of Iran’s nuclear program. On this episode, host Dan Richards talks with two experts about why these flashpoints dominate the conflict, what they mean for global security and what it might take to set them on paths to long-term stability. Guests on this episode: Reid Pauly is the dean's assistant professor of nuclear security and policy at the Watson School, and author of the 2025 book “The Art of Coercion: Credible Threats and the Assurance Dilemma.” Lyle Goldstein is a visiting professor of International and Public Affairs at Watson, and author of the 2026 book “The New Cold War at Sea: Maritime Implications of the China-Russia Quasi-Alliance.” Watch these conversations on YouTube