CrossTalk is a TV debate experience which presents hot-topic discussions on politics, business, newsmakers, global trends, present-day conflicts, and dangers and challenges facing our world. Host Peter Lavelle poses hard, straightforward questions to his guests, and demands concrete answers in response.
Defeat and humiliation
At least on paper Iran has won a historic victory over the United States. The MoU demands the US recognize Iran as a legitimate and even powerful state actor. Iran defeated two nuclear states – the US and Israel. Can it now win the peace? CrossTalking with Mohammad Marandi, Ali H. Mourad, and Zaid Belbagi.
Pause, not peace
What are we to make of the memorandum of understanding ending the US-Israel war on Iran? At this point it would seem to be more of a pause than a peace process. Nothing has been resolved. And the headwinds against a final agreement are enormous. The trust deficit remains. CrossTalking with Muhannad Ayyash, Helena Cobban, and Foad Izadi.
Deal theater?
We have been repeatedly told there is a deal to be had ending the unprovoked war on Iran. A deal means there is rough consensus. Given the parties involved that consensus seems a near impossibility. Also, are Kaja Kallas’s days numbered as the EU top diplomat? We can only hope. CrossTalking with George Szamuely and Mark Sleboda.
Return to war
If you have been following the unprovoked war on Iran, you have been provided with at least two opposite interpretations. According to one, the war is Iran’s fault and it has been defeated. The other holds that the US and Israel have suffered a strategic defeat. One thing is for sure – this conflict is far from over. CrossTalking with Jenin Younes, Ali Mamouri and Daoud Kuttab.
Losing control
Wars are unpredictable – the ultimate exercise in the law of unintended consequences. The Americans and Israelis have realized this and are in a state of panic. The Iranians, on the other hand, are playing their asymmetrical hand masterfully. CrossTalking with Larry Johnson, Jason Zaharis, and Esteban Carrillo Lopez.
CrossTalk Bullhorns: Insults as strategy
Theatrics is not a substitute for strategy. Zelensky’s insulting letter to the Russian president is a reflection of the West’s inability to negotiate in good faith. Also, Germany’s denial of a seat on the UN Security Council demonstrates Berlin’s fading importance in the world. This can also be said of Europe in general.
CrossTalking with Mark Sleboda and George Szamuely.