Civitas Outlook
Topic
Politics
Published on
June 2, 2026
Contributors
Richard Epstein
Charles C.W. Cooke
Episode
The Libertarian

Trump’s Iran Gamble Is Backfiring

About this episode

Richard Epstein weighs in on war, deterrence, and the limits of modern military strategy. Drawing lessons from World War II, Vietnam, Gaza, and the current conflict with Iran, Epstein argues that wars are either fought to win or not fought at all. He contends that America’s fear of escalation, reliance on limited objectives, and preference for negotiated settlements have produced strategic drift rather than decisive victory. Professor Epstein also delivers a sharp critique of Donald Trump’s handling of Iran, defends the logic of unconditional surrender, and explains why he believes half-measures can be more dangerous—and more costly—than total commitment.

All other episodes on

The Libertarian

The End of Hamas? Richard Epstein on Israel’s Path Forward

Richard Epstein discusses Donald Trump’s surprise ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.

EP7
Oct 14, 2025

Can the President Declare a Trade ‘Emergency’? On the Supreme Court’s Tariff Case

Richard Epstein delves into one of the most consequential Constitutional questions of our time: can the president unilaterally impose tariffs under emergency powers?

EP8
Oct 31, 2025

Is Gerrymandering Unconstitutional?

Gerrymandering is back in the headlines — and this time, the political map wars in Texas and California are colliding with the courts, the Constitution, and the future of American democracy.

EP9
Nov 24, 2025

Trump’s War on Narco Boats

Richard Epstein examines the constitutional, statutory, and international-law implications of the Trump administration’s recent strikes on vessels in the Caribbean alleged to be transporting “narco-terrorists.”

EP10
Dec 3, 2025

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