Trump Wants A Deal. Here's Why Iran Will Never Make Peace | Robert Spencer

What if the conflict with Iran isn't really about borders, oil, or politics? At the 2026 Reagan Ranch High School Conference, bestselling author and scholar Robert Spencer argues that the West continues to misunderstand the ideology driving the Islamic Republic of Iran—and why that misunderstanding makes lasting peace nearly impossible. In this speech and Q&A, Spencer examines the concept of jihad, the Iranian regime's stated goals toward America and Israel, the rise of anti-Israel activism on college campuses, and why he believes Israel remains on the front lines of a broader ideological struggle. He also answers student questions on: Iran and the possibility of peace The Israel–Iran conflict Why Israel matters to the United States October 7 and the global reaction Anti-Israel activism on college campuses The rise of Islamism in Europe and America Immigration and national identity The Muslim Brotherhood and "stealth jihad" Religious freedom and Islamic law America's future in the face of growing ideological challenges Whether you agree or disagree with his conclusions, this is a wide-ranging discussion on one of the most consequential geopolitical and ideological debates of o