Roger Higginson | On War in Iran and the Middle East — Why the West Doesn’t Understand Its Enemies

In a candid and open conversation, Dr. Roger Higginson challenges some of the most deeply held assumptions in Western policy and thinking.From Iran to Russia, he argues that what the West sees as aggression is often perceived on the other side as defense — shaped by history, invasion, and long-term insecurity.He explains why de-escalation has become so difficult, pointing to entrenched political narratives, institutional inertia, and a system that increasingly defaults to confrontation.We discuss:– why Western policymakers misunderstand Iran– how historical interventions still shape today’s conflicts– the role of Israel in escalating tensions with Tehran– whether the UK is still an independent actor — or aligned by default– how double standards on Ukraine and the Middle East are eroding Western credibility– why soft power has always depended on hard power– and whether Europe’s fear of Russia reflects reality — or perceptionDr. Higginson also raises uncomfortable questions:Is the West capable of de-escalation — or structurally locked into conflict?Is credibility already lost — or still recoverable?And what happens when perception replaces understanding in global politics?This is not a conversation about headlines.It is about how wars start — and why they become so difficult to end.