Podcast Summary: The Chris Hedges Report – “Everything You Need To Know About War With Iran” (July 10, 2025)

Host: Chris Hedges
Guest: Alastair Crook, former British diplomat and author of Resistance the Essence of the Islamist Revolution

Introduction

In this episode of The Chris Hedges Report, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Chris Hedges delves into the intricate dynamics of the 12-day conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran. Joining him is Alastair Crook, a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in the Middle East. Together, they explore the origins, developments, and potential future trajectories of this volatile situation.

Phase One of the Conflict

Chris Hedges opens the discussion by framing the recent conflict as merely the first phase of what could potentially become an "endless war." He draws parallels to Israel's prolonged sporadic conflicts with Lebanon and critiques the underlying motives, suggesting that the invasion and occupation of Iraq were built on false pretenses.

“The 12 day conflict between Israel, the United States and Iran is not over. It is the first phase of what could become an endless war.” [00:09]

Hedges emphasizes that the attacks on Iran were based on the misleading assertion that Iran was weaponizing enriched uranium—a claim neither US Intelligence nor the United Nations supported.

Strikes on Iran's Air Defenses

Alastair Crook provides a detailed analysis of the strikes on Iran's air defenses, debunking the notion of "open skies" touted by Israeli and American sources.

“There is not a single video... of an Israeli aircraft over Tehran or Iran as a whole.” [03:25]

Crook explains that the operation involved pre-positioning anti-tank weapons from Kurdistan and Iran, utilizing cyber attacks to disable Iran's air defenses temporarily. This sophisticated strategy, involving Mossad and special forces, underscores the complexity and premeditation behind the strikes.

Impact on Iran's Nuclear Program and IAEA

The discussion shifts to the aftermath of the strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. Crook highlights the limited effectiveness of these attacks in halting Iran's nuclear ambitions.

“At best, it probably set back any enrichment program by only a few weeks or months should Iran decide to build a bomb.” [00:09]

He further critiques the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), suggesting that suspending cooperation has deepened Iran's distrust towards the West.

“The failure of European governments to condemn the bombing... has only widened the divide between Iran and the West.” [03:25]

Strikes on Israel and Economic Impact

Turning focus to Israel, Crook discusses the unexpected resilience and retaliation by Iranian forces, which inflicted significant damage on Israeli infrastructure.

“At least five military sites were destroyed by the Iranians... including the Akira, which was the equivalent of the Pentagon.” [23:23]

The economic repercussions are severe, with major refineries and ports like Haifa and Ashdod being targeted, causing widespread blackouts and halting economic activities.

“The Israelis say [the refinery] will not be able to operate for at least a month.” [23:23]

Regional Geopolitical Tensions

Crook elaborates on the escalating tensions involving neighboring countries and major powers. He highlights the strained relations between Russia and Azerbaijan, influenced by these attacks and broader geopolitical maneuvers.

“Russia believes Turkey and NATO are behind the attacks... preparing for a new and wider Cold War.” [22:58]

The potential for broader regional destabilization is evident as countries like Turkey, Russia, and China respond to the shifting alliances and ongoing conflicts.

Gaza and Palestinian Territories

The conversation shifts to Gaza, where Crook warns of Israel’s intent to depopulate the region, likening it to the creation of a concentration camp.

“They will be put in, but they will not be allowed out of it. And it is a stage towards... the removal of the population from Gaza.” [46:13]

He underscores the humanitarian crisis unfolding, with enforced starvation and restrictions exacerbating the plight of Palestinians.

Decapitation Strategy and Long-term Consequences

Discussing Israel’s strategy of targeting leadership figures, Crook draws parallels with past actions, such as the assassination of Hamas leaders. He argues that while these actions disrupt organizations temporarily, they fail to weaken the overall system, often leading to the rise of more hardline factions.

“They decapitate the moderates and the younger generation that come in are much more hardline.” [51:44]

This approach, Crook contends, ultimately strengthens the resolve of targeted regimes rather than dismantling their capabilities.

Future of the Conflict and Possible Scenarios

Looking ahead, Crook explores potential triggers that could escalate the conflict further. He mentions the possibility of the West pushing Iran to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the subsequent diplomatic fallout.

“If the west... pushes very hard... then I think there will be an answer which is, we're leaving the NPT.” [16:52]

He also speculates on the political pressures facing the United States, particularly President Trump, who may seek to avoid prolonged engagement due to domestic concerns among the MAGA base and young Democratic voters.

“Trump is going to be worried about the internal position, the MAGA position.” [53:51]

Conclusion

Chris Hedges and Alastair Crook conclude by emphasizing the cyclical nature of military interventions and their unintended consequences. They caution against the belief that strategic strikes can achieve lasting peace, highlighting instead the deepening entrenchment of hostilities and the complexities of international diplomacy.

“This process of going around and just threatening states... has ended. And that's what happened... it's much better that we should go for a bomb.” [34:09]

Notable Quotes

• Chris Hedges: “The 12 day conflict... is not over. It is the first phase of what could become an endless war.” [00:09]
• Alastair Crook: “It was a very complicated setup that had taken months, if not years... you can't go back to it.” [03:25]
• Alastair Crook: “The Iranians believe there will be a further attack from Israel because it's not.” [22:24]
• Chris Hedges: “We should just draw that parallel between decapitating Hamas... it ultimately doesn't disrupt the system.” [51:07]
• Alastair Crook: “The western non-proliferation actually is back to front... it's the west who keep pushing people towards thinking the only thing that they need.” [34:09]

Final Thoughts

This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Through the expertise of Alastair Crook, listeners gain insights into the strategic maneuvers, geopolitical tensions, and the cyclical nature of military interventions that shape the Middle East's tumultuous landscape.

For more of Chris Hedges' work, visit chrishedges.substack.com.