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

Can the President Fire Anyone? SCOTUS Hears Arguments in Trump v. Slaughter

Richard Epstein does a deep into the Supreme Court’s latest showdown: Trump v. Slaughter, a case that could redefine presidential removal power and the future of independent agencies like the FTC.

EP11
Dec 10, 2025

Iran, Regime Change, and the War Powers Act

Richard Epstein defends the U.S. strike on Iran as a necessary act of preemptive self-defense.

EP16
Mar 4, 2026

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Politics

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