Story perspectives

Kagan Admits U.S. Actions Fuelled Middle East Terrorism

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Robert Kagan, a prominent neoconservative, said U.S. involvement in the Middle East has fueled terrorism rather than caused it.
The admission contrasts with his prior support for military interventions, including Iraq.
The article criticizes 21st-century pro-war ideologues for failures that sparked chaos in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Iran.
Opponents of these wars were vilified.
Public support for the Iran war has waned, signaling a shift in sentiment.

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Story summary

Robert Kagan, a prominent neoconservative, said U.S. involvement in the Middle East has fueled terrorism rather than caused it.
The admission contrasts with his prior support for military interventions, including Iraq.
The article criticizes 21st-century pro-war ideologues for failures that sparked chaos in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Iran.
Opponents of these wars were vilified.
Public support for the Iran war has waned, signaling a shift in sentiment.