What happens when a global superpower launches a military operation intended to demonstrate dominance but instead reveals the limits of its power? In this episode, we examine the escalating US–Iran conflict, the shifting balance of power in the Middle East, and the growing risk that Australia could be drawn into another US-led war.

As tensions rise following US strikes on Iran, the episode explores the weakening of the post-World War II order, the challenge posed by emerging powers such as China, Russia and the BRICS bloc, and the influence of ideology in American foreign policy.

We also analyse Australia’s expanding defence integration with the United States through AUKUS, the deployment of Australian Defence Force personnel to the region, and the deeper question confronting Canberra: does Australia truly have strategic independence, or is it permanently tied to Washington’s global conflicts?   #AUSPOL

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Song listing:

• ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.