Diplomacy vs. Disaster: Sara Haghdoosti on Building a Progressive Foreign Policy

Flux Podcasts (Formerly Theory of Change)

What does a truly progressive foreign policy look like—and what happens when we abandon it?

Foreign policy often feels like a conversation for elites. But in this episode, Sara Haghdoosti, Executive Director of Win Without War, argues otherwise. She joins Jen Taylor-Skinner to unpack how the collapse of diplomacy between the U.S. and Iran—and Israel’s recent strikes—have pushed the world dangerously close to a wider war.

Together, they explore the long-term consequences of abandoning the Iran nuclear deal, the myth that Americans don’t care about foreign policy, and how militarism abroad fuels violence and repression at home. Most importantly, Sara explains why people-led movements—not politicians—are our best hope for peace.

They also discuss the critical role of women at the negotiating table, the urgent need to demystify foreign policy, and how today’s most pressing threats—like climate change and displacement—can only be solved through diplomacy.

(00:01) US Foreign Policy in the Middle East

Israel-Iran tensions, human impact, historical context of Iran nuclear deal, role of sanctions, and importance of people-led movements for peace.

(11:19) Progressive Foreign Policy and Diplomatic Solutions

Foreign policy, racism, and domestic impact are explored, emphasizing the need for progressive diplomacy and civil society's power in shaping political discourse.

(20:00) Reimagining US Foreign Policy and Diplomacy

Feminist activism, female leadership, grassroots organizing, and broadening perspectives in U.S. foreign policy.

(33:13) Challenging Islamophobia and Building Progress

Society's progress in combating Islamophobia, resistance to divisive rhetoric, and interconnectedness for a safer world.

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