A year after the Iran conflict reshaped headlines, shipping lanes, and political debate, Steve Yates reviews what actually happened and what Americans should learn from it. Looking back at each stage of the campaign, he examines military operations, economic pressure, the Strait of Hormuz, information warfare, War Powers debates, and whether a strategy between invasion and appeasement achieved its goals. The focus is on separating perception from results and understanding the challenges that remain.

What lessons should guide U.S. policy going forward? Steve outlines eight key takeaways and the questions every voter should be asking elected leaders as a new Congress prepares to take office. 

Follow Nation States with Yates for clear, common-sense insights where Steve Yates serves as your personal national security advisor, breaking down world events in ways that matter to Main Street, not just Washington. Connect with the show at Feedback@NationStatesYates.com and follow on X @NSWithYates.