The hub of realism and restraint

US‑Israel‑Iran

War with Iran

Strategic failure despite operational successes

Even with myriad tactical military successes, the joint U.S.-Israel war—which aimed to permanently degrade Iran’s military capabilities and topple the regime—resulted in strategic failure.

NATO

Stop bargaining, start leaving

NATO-Europe pledges to spend more on defense offer little benefit to the U.S.

Keeping so many U.S. troops in Europe discourages our wealthy allies from doing more on defense. The U.S. should draw down, reducing its force structure on a timetable toward an eventual exit.

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US‑Israel‑Iran

Foreign Affairs: Least bad Iran deal

An enduring deal can be achieved through difficult but necessary U.S. concessions

Such a deal would remove America from the current crisis in the Middle East; open the Strait of Hormuz; and guard against future conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.

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NATO

Let Europe rearm

How the U.S. can capitalize on NATO's 5% pledge

An urgent opportunity exists to finally push Europe past its dependence on the U.S.—but only if American leaders trade control for smarter incentives.

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Ukraine‑Russia

A flawed peace formula

What is required to end the Ukraine-Russia War

An enduring settlement must offer credible assurances to both Moscow and Kyiv that address their core security concerns.

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In the mediaNuclear weapons, Middle East

U.S. signs landmark nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia that could pave the way for domestic nuclear enrichment

Featuring Rosemary Kelanic

July 23, 2026

Before the deal was announced, Rosemary Kelanic, the head of the Middle East programme at Defense Priorities, warned in a […]

Press ReleaseMiddle East, Nuclear weapons

Saudi enrichment risks morphing into U.S. security guarantee

By Rosemary Kelanic

July 22, 2026

Op-edIran, Middle East, US‑Israel‑Iran

In Defense of Détente with Iran

By Lyle Goldstein

July 22, 2026

The hub of realism and restraint

Our mission is to inform citizens, thought leaders, and policymakers of the importance of a strong, dynamic military—used more judiciously to protect America’s narrowly defined national interests—and promote a realistic grand strategy prioritizing restraint, diplomacy, and free trade to ensure U.S. security.