Inside Iran: Is the war about to escalate?
Summary
Richard Engel reports from Iran following the assassination of Ayatollah Khamenei, describing massive pro-regime rallies and the regime's resilience despite US-Israeli strikes. He interviews political scientist Robert Pape, who argues the conflict is entering an "escalation trap" where the US may launch ground operations to retake control of the Strait of Hormuz. Pape warns this could trigger a prolonged war and severe global economic consequences.
Topics discussed
Intro: Stuff Matters podcast promo
Richard Engel reports from Iran on Khamenei's funeral
Engel's observations on Iranian unity and leadership vacuum
Listener Q&A: Experience of reporting during strikes
Listener Q&A: Did the war unite the Iranian people?
Stuff Matters podcast promo
Interview with Prof. Robert Pape on the Escalation Trap
Outro and call for listener questions
Stuff Matters podcast promo
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