Watch the full uncut interview HERE: https://thebrinkpodcast.substack.com/p/former-green-beret-trump-is-repeating?r=63dafp

In this episode of The Brink, Andrew and Jake are joined by former United States Army Special Forces officer Mike Nelson for an in-depth assessment of the war with Iran, the strategic dilemmas facing the Trump administration, and whether the United States entered the conflict without a clear plan for success.

Drawing on his military experience and time working on strategy at US Central Command, Mike explains how Washington approached the conflict, why he believes the military presented viable options to political leaders, and where he thinks critical decisions were driven by unrealistic assumptions rather than coherent long-term strategy.

The discussion examines the Strait of Hormuz, Kharg Island, Pickaxe Mountain, and the enormous military and political risks associated with any attempt at regime change or ground operations inside Iran.

The conversation also explores the growing politicisation of the US military, the changing relationship between civilian leaders and senior commanders, and what these developments could mean for America's armed forces in future conflicts. Mike reflects on how loyalty, military professionalism, and strategic planning are being reshaped under the current administration.

Finally, we examine the future of the transatlantic alliance, America's relationship with Europe and Israel, the rise of isolationism within the Republican Party, and why Mike believes the West faces a critical test of both leadership and strategic resolve in the years ahead.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:23 Trump's Strategy On Iran

11:10 Is The US Military Becoming Politicised?

17:21 Did America Have A Plan?

25:30 The Military Options Against Iran

35:37 Why The West Keeps Winning Battles But Losing Wars

39:57 Why Iran Is So Difficult To Defeat

43:50 Has America Abandoned Its Allies?

49:36 Can America Recover After Trump?

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