This week, we’re joined by Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft. With Dr. Parsi, we discuss why this moment demands that the U.S. disentangle itself from hawkish, war-bent alliances, how the situation relates to Middle Eastern politics, Dr. Parsi’s strong case against sanctions on Russia, and more.

First, we take a broad look at the state of U.S. alliances across the Middle East. Dr. Parsi argues that these should hardly be looked at as “alliances” as such — the phrase “strategic partnerships” feels more fitting, in the case of the American alliance with Saudi Arabia and others. Reviving one of the greatest accomplishments of the Obama years, the Iran nuclear deal, remained a focus of Democratic presidential candidates in 2020 and made its way into the party platform. But we’re still waiting on the U.S. to rejoin. Dr. Parsi makes the case that it was the threat of “politically costly arguments” with Netanyahu that gave Biden pause in rejoining, leading to an uncertain future.

Returning to the topic of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, we reflect on how just weeks ago SWIFT banking sanctions were considered the most extreme possible sanctions on the table. Now we’ve sped right past them and toward even more dismal punishments for Russians. Krystal suggests that there’s not just a results-motivated case against sanctions — they’re unlikely to produce the desired result of de-escalating the conflict, and will in fact likely do the exact opposite — but that there’s also a moral case. The Russian people, many of whom risk their safety to reject this war through protest, will pay the price.

In response, Dr. Parsi points out the major conflict in the logic of those calling for sanctions. Those rightfully critiquing Putin for starting this war label him a dictator, suggesting that the power to begin and to end the conflict is in his hands, and it’s at his will that it continues. Why, then, should millions of everyday people be forced to bear the brunt of punishment for a war they didn’t ask for and don’t want?

Reflecting on the resounding call for sanctions that’s currently coming from Washington, Dr. Parsi recalls the U.S.’s recent seizing of the Afghan central bank’s funds. This move, which attempted to paint a veneer of charity by putting half of the stolen assets into a humanitarian fund, was a clear grab for power and control over those who have suffered for decades under U.S. militarism. In the case of Russia, sanctions won’t convince a dictator to cease violence against innocent people in the Ukraine. They will, however, visit economic devastation and instability on innocent people in Russia. We believe there’s a better way.