It's Debatable
Intervention or Restraint? A Washington debate on pressing issues for policymakers.
Have Israel and the United States Done Enough to Deter Iran?
U.S. allies intercepted hundreds of Iranian drones and missiles, and then Israeli forces counterattacked in a limited strike—but the threat of regional war remains.
It’s Debatable’s Greatest Hits
In their 100th column, Matt and Emma revisit clashes over Taiwan, Ukraine, Iran—and how to deter an alien invasion.
Are Both U.S. Parties Divided on Foreign Policy?
As Biden and Trump gear up for a rematch, rifts are emerging within both Democratic and Republican ranks.
Is the World Really So Gloomy?
Western elites have become extremely pessimistic, but European countries’ shifting attitudes toward self-defense could be a bright spot.
Does the United States Need a New Ukraine Strategy?
Amid chaos in Congress and an election campaign, the Biden administration may be forced to reconsider the viability of its approach toward Kyiv.
Can the United States Deter—or Compel—Iran?
It’s unclear whether Washington’s threats will change Tehran’s calculus.
Can the U.S. Prevent a Wider War in the Middle East?
Washington’s approach appears to be failing—but a military focus on Iran may not resolve the fundamental problems in the region.
Has the United States Given Up on Protecting Global Trade?
The Biden administration has been curiously silent on the gravest threat in the Middle East: attacks on global shipping.
Did Biden’s Foreign Policy Flounder in 2023?
From Ukraine to Gaza, U.S. credibility on the world stage is appearing strained as an election year looms.
Did Henry Kissinger Further U.S. National Interests or Harm Them?
The death of a legendary diplomat raises difficult questions about his legacy.
Is the U.S. Using All Its Leverage in Gaza?
Washington has influence and, with its allies, could shape an endgame that serves long-term U.S. interests.
How Many Wars Can America Fight at the Same Time?
The country’s adversaries around the world may sense Washington is stretched too thin.
Has Washington’s Middle East Policy Failed?
The status quo is unworkable, but no one appears to be offering viable long-term solutions.
What Does Nagorno-Karabakh’s Fall Mean for Great Power Influence?
Washington and Moscow care a lot about some post-Soviet conflicts—but are largely ignoring others.
Is the G-20 Useless?
As another multilateral forum issued a watered-down statement, Russia and North Korea met to deepen military ties.
