Former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and bestselling author Ryan Holiday discuss the war in Iran On Firing Line, PBS

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Last edited Sun May 17, 2026, 07:50 PM - Edit history (1)

Former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and bestselling author Ryan Holiday discuss the war in Iran, its potential impact, and how Stoic virtues can inform military leadership in a conversation recorded at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University.

Included in the discussion is the need for leaders of virtue in an enduring democracy.

About Firing Line

Firing Line with Margaret Hoover is a refreshing reprisal of William F. Buckley’s iconic PBS program, a smart, civil and engaging contest of ideas. The series maintains the character of the original, providing a platform that is diligent in its commitment to civility and the rigorous exchange of opinion. Firing Line with Margaret Hoover comes at a time when meaningful discourse is needed more than ever. Interviews and debates will highlight leading lights from the left and right, complemented by archival footage from the original Firing Line to remind viewers of longstanding conservative and liberal arguments, where they’ve been disproved or reinforced over time. It is an opportunity to engage in the debate about the America that we want to create for the 21st century — and summon Americans of every political persuasion to a rigorous examination of the choices we must make together in the challenging years ahead.

About the Host

Margaret Hoover is an American political commentator. In addition, she is also an author, feminist, and gay rights activist. Currently, she works as a political commentator for CNN.

https://www.pbs.org/wnet/firing-line/