The PDB Situation Report | September 12th, 2026: The Iran Conflict Just Entered a More Dangerous Phase & Pentagon Considers Postwar Pullback
Summary
Host Mike Baker discusses the escalating Iran conflict with Ben Talu, analyzing US strikes on oil tankers, Iranian missile attacks on Jordan, and the economic impact of $100 oil. The episode also marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11, featuring Steve Yates from the Heritage Foundation, who reflects on the day's events and assesses the Pentagon's plans to reduce its permanent military footprint in the Middle East.
Topics discussed
Intro: Iran conflict escalation and 9/11 anniversary
Iranian missile strikes on US assets in Jordan
Assessment of US naval success in Strait of Hormuz
Iran's strategy: High oil prices and patience
Economic pressure and the 'Max Pressure' strategy
Maritime blockade and shipping insurance impacts
Sponsor break: Quo business phone system
Regime change goals and public patience
Iran's enablers and historical context of 9/11
Houthi conflict in Yemen and closing segment
Transition to Steve Yates and Pentagon footprint
Sponsor break: Crashafhenil energy supplement
Pentagon considering smaller Middle East footprint
Introducing Steve Yates and his podcast
Reflections on the 25th anniversary of 9/11
Personal memories and evacuation from the White House
Presidential leadership and continuity of government
Impact of 9/11 on politics and military strategy
Comparing Iran, Iraq, and Kuwait conflict scales
Future force levels and burden sharing
Promoting Nation States with Yates podcast
Lessons from Afghanistan and Iraq interventions
Rational readjustment of US military presence
Nuclear monitoring and the 'Pottery Barn' rule
Evolution of relationships with Gulf allies
Pakistan's role and regional unpredictability
Most memorable moment from 9/11
Closing remarks and PDB Premium promotion
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