What is driving the war in Iran – and what comes next?

What is driving the war in Iran – and what comes next?

Author: ANU National Security College March 18, 2026 Duration: 45:19

Why did the United States and Israel choose to strike Iran now – and what are the strategic consequences of that decision? What lessons have been learnt from Iran’s asymmetric response?

Can Iran’s protesters realistically leverage the current crisis for meaningful political change, or has the aerial campaign by US and Israel undermined their momentum?

How can Australia and other US allies balance alliance commitments with national interests in this conflict?


In this episode, Beth Sanner and Dr Rodger Shanahan join Justin Burke to discuss the drivers of the Iran war, and examine the broader implications for regional and global security.


Beth Sanner is a Distinguished Advisor at the ANU National Security College (NSC). She is the former US Deputy Director of National Intelligence, a 35-year intelligence veteran, and now the Director of Geopolitics and Strategy for International Capital Strategies.

Dr Rodger Shanahan is a former Army officer with a PhD in Arab and Islamic studies. He has previously held appointments at NSC and the Lowy Institute, with operational and diplomatic experience in the Middle East.

Justin Burke is Senior Policy Advisor at NSC.


TRANSCRIPT


Show notes:

·     NSC academic programs – find out more


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Produced by the ANU National Security College, The National Security Podcast offers a deep and nuanced examination of the forces shaping regional and global stability. This isn't just a surface-level news recap; it's a forum for serious, informed discussion grounded in academic rigor and policy expertise. Each episode features conversations with leading thinkers, practitioners, and analysts who unpack the complex security landscape, from geopolitical shifts and economic coercion to cyber threats and climate-related risks. The focus is consistently on the pressing challenges and strategic choices confronting Australia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Listeners will gain access to a range of perspectives that cut through the noise, providing clarity on how today's decisions shape tomorrow's security environment. By engaging with this podcast, you join a conversation that is both timely and essential, one that connects theoretical understanding with the practical realities of government and international affairs. The dialogue here is built on evidence and experience, offering listeners a trusted source to better comprehend the intricate dynamics of power, diplomacy, and defense. It's an ongoing exploration of what security means in a rapidly changing world, delivered through thoughtful, long-form discussions that prioritize depth and insight.
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