The Fog of War: Lessons from McNamara & Why History Still Matters (2026)

The recent US decision to attack Iran has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the rationale behind the move. The author argues that the US is once again choosing escalation without clear goals, mirroring the ill-fated Vietnam War. The article highlights the lack of immediate threat Iran posed to US national security and the ongoing nuclear negotiations that were producing tangible results. The author warns of the potential for a prolonged and costly war of attrition, similar to Vietnam, which the US cannot ultimately win. This perspective is further supported by the European leaders' decision not to join the war, citing the lessons from previous failures in Vietnam, Iraq, and Libya. The author also draws a parallel between the US's actions in Iran and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, suggesting that the US should be focusing on supporting Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for the US to carefully consider the consequences of its actions and manage the war's outcome, just as President McNamara did with the Vietnam War.

The Fog of War: Lessons from McNamara & Why History Still Matters (2026)
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