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The Munk Debates Podcast

The Munk Debates Podcast

Friday Focus: Iran on the brink and the politicization of the Nobel Peace Prize

Oct 9, 2026 · 28m

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About this episode

Rudyard and Janice begin today’s show with Trump’s mixed messaging on Iran. While Trump has suggested that military action may be delayed until after the midterms, reports indicate that the U.S. military is preparing for potential strikes. With Trump’s statements increasingly difficult to take at face value, the focus shifts to more concrete signals, such as military deployments. Meanwhile, Iran’s economy is under mounting pressure, with oil exports halted and the economy in free fall. Having challenged Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. appears to have gained leverage, while Tehran shows signs of wanting a deal. In the second half, Rudyard and Janice turn to the Nobel Peace…