Doom: The Politics of Catastrophe by Niall Ferguson review
(Evening Standard) – From plagues and volcanic eruptions to the current Covid pandemic, mankind has always been faced with catastrophes.
Thought Leader: Niall Ferguson
Edward Fishman: Iran Is Using America’s Playbook Against Us
In this New York Times article, Edward Fishman argues that while the U.S. believes it is strategically lowering oil prices by easing sanctions on Iran, it is actually Iran that has gained the upper hand. By disrupting the Strait of Hormuz with targeted, low-cost attacks, Iran has effectively reduced global shipping traffic and forced the U.S. into granting sanctions relief—delivering Tehran both economic and geopolitical wins.
Fishman explains that Iran has adopted a strategy originally developed by the United States: shaping global behavior by increasing perceived risk rather than direct force. Just as the U.S. once used financial sanctions to pressure foreign banks, Iran is now using selective attacks to influence the global shipping industry, turning private actors into tools of its strategy.
The result is a major shift in power dynamics. Even if conflict subsides, lingering risk and uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz could permanently impact global energy markets. Fishman warns that this moment signals a broader trend—where adversaries learn from U.S. tactics and use them in return—making future conflicts more unstable, costly, and difficult to resolve.
Visit The New York Times article by Edward Fishman.
Edward Fishman is one of the world’s foremost experts on economic statecraft, with deep experience shaping U.S. foreign policy. His New York Times–bestselling book Chokepoints: American Power in the Age of Economic Warfare is widely regarded as definitive and essential to understand how sanctions, tariffs, and export controls are reshaping the world. A Columbia University scholar, he brings sharp, timely insights into how economic warfare is transforming geopolitics and the business landscape. His ability to translate complex global dynamics into compelling narratives makes him a standout keynote speaker for any audience. Contact us today to learn more.
Relevant posts
Michael Baker: Ukraine’s Faltering Front, Polish Sabotage Foiled, & Trump vs. Kamala
In this episode of The President’s Daily Brief with Mike Baker: We examine Russia’s ongoing push in eastern Ukraine. While Ukrainian forces continue their offensive…
Thought Leader: Mike Baker
Loretta Mester: Fed most likely to cut rates by quarter point
Former Cleveland Fed president Loretta Mester joins CNBC’s ‘The Exchange’ to discuss her expectations for rate cuts, whether the Fed’s focus should be on rates…
Thought Leader: Loretta Mester
