Michael Weiss: Iran Is Not Likely to Forget about the War

In this episode of The Bulwark Podcast, host Charissa delves into the aftermath of Donald Trump's 12-day military campaign against Iran, analyzing the fragile ceasefire, the geopolitical fallout, and the domestic political unraveling of Trump's base. With guest Michael Weiss, a Russia-focused journalist and author, the conversation explores how the war has wounded but not destroyed Iran’s regime, which Weiss warns will not forget the humiliation and is likely to retaliate in the future. The episode examines the failure of proxy uprisings, the limitations of U.S. intelligence, and the emerging 'mowing the grass' strategy of periodic kinetic strikes to prevent Iran from rebuilding. Weiss also discusses the surprising political shift in Hungary, where a center-right coalition led by Peter Magyar defeated Viktor Orbán’s authoritarian Fidesz party, ending years of Russian collusion and media suppression. This democratic resurgence, driven by economic despair and a desire for normalcy, offers a hopeful counterpoint to the U.S. political crisis. The discussion concludes with concerns over Trump’s declining credibility, his susceptibility to foreign influence, and the broader implications for U.S. global leadership, especially as Europe begins to decouple from American foreign policy and prepare for a world without U.S. dominance. Key takeaways include: Iran will not accept the status quo and will seek revenge; the U.S. may enter a new era of periodic, limited military strikes to prevent Iran’s resurgence; Hungary’s democratic comeback proves authoritarian regimes can be defeated at the ballot box; Trump’s foreign policy is driven by personal legacy rather than strategic coherence; and Europe is now actively preparing for a future without American leadership. The overall tone is cautiously hopeful, with a strong emphasis on the resilience of democratic institutions and the importance of persistent, fact-based journalism.