In a recent discussion, former Undersecretary of Defense Robert Wilkie and writer Uri Kaufman expressed concerns about the growing alliance between Russia and Iran, suggesting it aims to challenge U.S. influence. They criticized the current U.S. administration’s diplomatic strategies, asserting that these have contributed to the strengthening of this alliance.
Wilkie highlighted Russia’s intentions to collaborate with Iran, motivated by its isolation on the global front. He labeled both nations as seeking alliances with other marginalized countries and linked this to what he sees as the U.S. administration’s ineffective foreign policy, particularly in supporting regional allies.
According to Wilkie, the U.S. administration’s lackluster response to numerous attacks on American forces has further encouraged this Russian-Iranian axis. He also mentioned the geopolitical interests of other regional players like Saudi Arabia, referencing their stance on groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Kaufman, author of a book on the Yom Kippur War, concurred with Wilkie’s assessment. He criticized the Iran nuclear deal, arguing it allows Iran to destabilize the region while only making minor concessions in its nuclear program. He traced this back to a statement by Iran’s former president, Mohammad Khatami, predicting Iran’s rise as a counterbalance to U.S. influence. Kaufman accused Iran of exploiting political voids in various countries to indoctrinate youth, leading to radicalized groups in several regions.
Furthermore, Kaufman criticized recent U.S. financial dealings with Iran, referring to a controversial $6 billion release linked to the release of American prisoners. This move sparked legislative action in the U.S. House of Representatives, where a significant bipartisan majority voted for a bill mandating the permanent freezing of these funds. This bill, introduced by Rep. Michael McCaul, saw an unusual alignment of most Republicans and a notable number of Democrats. Only a small minority, including one Republican representative, opposed the bill.
