The American Commentator Making Excuses for Iran
The Atlantic critiques commentator Max Blumenthal for his recent trip to Iran and his sympathetic portrayal of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The article frames Blumenthal's actions as part of a historical pattern of Western intellectuals excusing authoritarian regimes.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing debate regarding the role of Western influencers in shaping public perception of geopolitical adversaries.
Max Blumenthal fits into a long, disreputable tradition.
Illustration by the Atlantic. Source: Alejandro Alvarez / Sipa / AP. July 28, 2026, 8:40 PM ET Share Save When I saw that the commentator Max Blumenthal was going to speak in Washington, D.C., about his recent trip to Iran, I couldn’t stay away. I have long been fascinated with Americans—especially privileged, well-connected Americans—who, out of alienation from their own country, show an admiration for distant authoritarian lands.
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