Ceasefire? (E136)

Ceasefire? (E136)

From The Ancient Art of Modern Warfare by Chris Mayer National Security and Strategy Consultant

May 2, 2026 · 11 min · Episode 137

About this episode

This episode examines the real reasons behind ceasefires and their implications in ongoing conflicts.

As I post this, the cease-fires in Lebanon and Iran are still holding, and much longer than I expected. We usually think of cease fires as a good thing, enabling humanitarian activity and at least pause the death and destruction. That is not, however, the purpose behind any suspension in fighting a war. In this episode I examine the real reasons for most truces or cease fires, explore probable motivations for the current cease fires, and ask whether all cease fires are inherently good. Disclaimer: These podcasts are not monetized or subsidized in any way, nor do they represent anyone’s opinion but my own. Reference: Clausewitz, C. On War, Book One, Chapter One Music: Copland, A. & United States Marine Band. (2000) Fanfare for the Common Man. unpublished, Washington, DC. [Audio] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, (Fair use for educational purposes.)

People in this episode

Host: Chris Mayer

Topics covered

  • ceasefire
  • war
  • humanitarian
  • truce
  • military strategy

Keywords

  • ceasefire
  • Lebanon
  • Iran
  • truce
  • Clausewitz
  • war
  • humanitarian

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: United States Marine Band

Books & works: On War

Places: Lebanon, Iran

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