The John Batchelor Show

SHOW SCHEDULE1-13-251868 PUBLISHER'S ROW NYC Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICE agent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Irandespite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russiacurrently has no interest in negotiations. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijingstruggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacres. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump's rhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western. Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy. Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces. Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement. Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Irancould ignite Central Asian economic potential. Guest: Gregory Copley. Although the U.S. promises help, Copley warns that a ground invasion is physically difficult and historically unsuccessful. There are signs that Iranian police and some Revolutionary Guard units are refusing to fire on protesters. Ultimately, the Iranian people must take ownership of the revolution to ensure the legitimacy of any successor government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S.seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures. Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.

This transcript from The John Bachelor Show features a live discussion between host John Bachelor, former Congressman Thaddius McCotter, and scholars Judy Dempsey and Brandon Weichert. The participants evaluate the geopolitical instability of early 2026, focusing heavily on widespread civil unrest in Iran and the regime's potentially violent "Samson option" response. The conversation transitions into the ongoing war in Ukraine, highlighting deep divisions within the European Union regarding ceasefires and security guarantees. The experts also analyze German domestic politics, specifically the rise of the populist AfD party and its impact on immigration policy. Finally, the dialogue addresses controversial rumors regarding the Trump administration's interest in Greenland and the potential for separatist movements in North America to seek U.S. protection.1970 UK EMBASY TEHRAN

SHOW1-14-251671 Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICE agent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Irandespite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russiacurrently has no interest in negotiations. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijingstruggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists.  Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacre 7Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump's rhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western.8 Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy. Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces. Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement. Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Irancould ignite Central Asian economic potential. Guest: Gregory Copley. Although the U.S. promises help, Copley warns that a ground invasion is physically difficult and historically unsuccessful. There are signs that Iranian police and some Revolutionary Guard units are refusing to fire on protesters. Ultimately, the Iranian people must take ownership of the revolution to ensure the legitimacy of any successor government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S.seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures. Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.

Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.1970 TEHRAN

Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S. seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures.1902 CARACAS

Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Iran could ignite Central Asian economic potential.

Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement.1970 IRAN

Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement.1307 TABRIZ

Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution.1997 DAMASCUS

Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals.1920 PERSIA

Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces.1971 IRAN

Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy.1979 TEHRAN

Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump'srhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western.1978 TEHRAN

Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacres.1808 BANK OF ENGLAND

Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijing struggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists.1905 POSTCARD

Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO.1889 GREENLAND

Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Iran despite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russia currently has no interest in negotiations.1813 ALEXANDER I OF RUSSIA AND FAMILY

Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICEagent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump.1945 JUSTICE DEPARTMENT

Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure.FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD 1917

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY: This transcript features a discussion between John Batchelor and Gregory Copley regarding the potential political return of Reza Pahlavi to Iran. The speakers suggest that the Crown Prince is currently the only figure with sufficient name recognition and historical legitimacy to lead the nation following a potential collapse of the current regime. While the United States Department of State historically opposes monarchic structures, the experts argue that Pahlavi could serve as a transitional leader or a constitutional monarch similar to the British model. They emphasize that his return is increasingly supported by internal Iranian voices seeking stability through his established plans for economic and agricultural reform. Ultimately, the dialogue positions Pahlavi as a unique bridge between the country's imperial past and a future democratic transformation.1970 TEHRAN

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Elizabeth Peek. Peek discusses the investigation into Federal ReserveChairman Jerome Powell regarding building construction costs. She labels the $700 million budget overage a "red herring," arguing it distracts from more critical debates concerning the Federal Reserve's future independence and the president's upcoming choice for leadership in the springtime.1914 FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Schanzer compares the current unrest in Iran to the tectonic shift of the Soviet Union's collapse. He questions the lack of media coverage despite evidence of massacres and body bags, attributing the relative dearth of images to the regime's active jamming of Starlink and the internet across the region.1900 RUSSIANS IN TABRIZ

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Professor Brenda Shaffer. Shaffer explains that the Iranian revolution's success depends on the participation of ethnic minorities. While IRGC members live safely in major cities like Tehran, they face direct, violent retribution in minority-populated provinces. This highlights a fragmented movement where regional resistance differs significantly from the protests in the capital.1307 PERSIA MURDER

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Joseph Sternberg. Sternberg criticizes the BBC and Western political left for their delayed response to the massacre of Iranian civilians. He argues this silence stems from the inability to use the situation to criticize Israel, contrasting the current lack of outrage with the vocal protests typically directed at Israeliactions.

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY Guest: Brandon Weichert. Weichert analyzes how Iranian turmoil affects Shaheddrone production, noting that Russia has already moved toward domestic manufacturing. He suggests that the disruption of Starlink in Iran is not accidental but reflects Russia and China testing anti-Starlink weapon systems, using the Iranian conflict as a strategic testing ground.

"The Making of the John Batchelor Show" is a live-streaming "beta" experiment launched by John Batchelor on Monday, January 12, 2026. The primary objective of this specific program is to demonstrate "total transparency" by allowing the audience to see the behind-the-scenes process and technical "bumps" involved in producing the show.According to the sources, this format provides several unique insights into the show's production: Live Recording for Radio: While the stream is broadcast live, Batchelor and his guests record specific segments that are later lined up for the standard radio audience in the evening. Technical Troubleshooting: The stream captures the raw interactions between Batchelor and his producer, Chris Noel, as they manage software like StreamYard, troubleshoot audio issues with guests, and coordinate the timing of the "go live" countdown. Real-Time Coordination: The sources show Batchelor and co-host Bill Roggio managing the schedule in real-time, such as texting guests like Jonathan Seiya to arrange interview slots between other segments like "New World". A "Maiden Voyage": Batchelor describes this weekday streaming effort as a "maiden voyage" and a way to jump into the "pool" of new technology, even when they are not entirely confident in the tools. Expert Integration: The format allows for casual introductions and pre-interviews between experts, such as when Batchelor introduced David Shedd to Bill Roggio before they began a formal recorded segment on China's cyber-espionage. Throughout the broadcast, the experts used this transparent platform to analyze an "unprecedented" period of global instability. They covered a wide array of topics, including the news blackout in Iran, the "fiction" of U.S. strikes in Syria, and the shift toward center-right governments in Latin America following the removal of Nicolas Maduro.In essence, "The Making of the John Batchelor Show" functions like a "glass-walled studio," where the audience observes both the polished geopolitical analysis and the unscripted logistical efforts required to bring that analysis to the airwaves.1850 SUBURB OF TEHRAN

SHOW1-12-26"THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW""The Making of the John Batchelor Show" is a live-streaming "beta" experiment launched by John Batchelor on Monday, January 12, 2026. The primary objective of this specific program is to demonstrate "total transparency" by allowing the audience to see the behind-the-scenes process and technical "bumps" involved in producing the show.GLOBAL CHAOS AND THE EROSION OF STABILITY Colleagues Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani. The guests discuss worldwide instability, arguing that the US has abandoned its traditional role in maintaining global order. They examine conflicts in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela, suggesting US actions are often driven by whims rather than strategic planning, leading to a state of heightened chaos. NUMBER 1FICTIONS IN SYRIA AND THE RISKS OF INTERVENTION Colleagues Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani. The discussion focuses on the Syrian conflict, criticizing the US for maintaining "fictions" about local actors and security forces. Haqqani warns against military intervention in Iran, citing past failures like Vietnam and Iraq, noting that military force cannot solve misunderstood political problems. NUMBER 2CHINA'S GREAT HEIST OF AMERICAN SECRETS Colleagues David Shedd and Bill Roggio. David Sheddoutlines China's extensive cyber espionage campaigns, including "Salt Typhoon," which successfully hacked US Congressional committees. These operations aim to steal sensitive communications and embed sabotage tools within USinfrastructure, highlighting a critical failure in American defensive preparedness. NUMBER 3REGIME CHANGE AND SHIFTING POWER IN THE AMERICAS Colleagues David Shedd and Bill Roggio. Shedd details the removal of Nicolas Maduro and a regional shift toward center-right governments. This transition aims to end Russian and Chinese influence in the Western Hemisphere. Furthermore, the US is demanding stricter security cooperation from Mexico to dismantle powerful drug cartels. NUMBER 4IRANIAN PROTESTS AND THE COLLAPSE OF REGIME CONTROL Colleague Malcolm Hoenlein. Protests across Iran have turned deadly, with reports of hundreds killed by live fire and hospitals refusing wounded demonstrators. Malcolm Hoenlein highlights a communication blackout and a collapsing economy where the currency has plummeted. A new minority coalition of Baluchis and Kurds is now supporting rebellion. NUMBER 5THE SHIFTING BALANCE OF FEAR IN IRAN Colleague Malcolm Hoenlein. As the regime faces potential implosion, discussions involve a return of the Shah's son as a symbolic figurehead, though no clear path to collective leadership exists. Revolutionaries are now tagging the homes of officials, signaling that the balance of fear has shifted from the people to the leadership. NUMBER 6RUSSIA'S ORESHNIK MISSILE AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DETERRENCE Colleague John Hardy. Russia is utilizing the Oreshnik missile to strike Ukrainian infrastructure, leaving thousands without heat. John Hardy explains these strikes serve as psychological intimidation to deter Western nations from providing security guarantees or ground troops. Recent strikes likely targeted an aircraft repair plant, not gas storage. NUMBER 7ESCALATING CONFLICT BETWEEN SYRIAN FORCES AND KURDISH ALLIES Colleague Akmed Khari. Clashes have erupted in Aleppo between the Syrian government and the Kurdish SDF after a failed integration agreement. Akmed Khari notes the complexity of the US coordinating with Syrian security forces that remain riddled with jihadists. The conflict is expected to expand into other contested regions. Analogy: The situation in Syria is like a shaky alliance between rival firefighters who, while ostensibly trying to put out the same blaze, begin turning their hoses on each other while the fire continues to spread. NUMBER 8THE US-MANAGED TRANSITION IN POST-MADURO VENEZUELA Colleague Ernesto Araújo. John Batchelor and Ernesto Araújo discuss the US-led operation that captured Nicolas Maduro. Araújo describes the current situation as a well-managed transition where the US is navigating internal power struggles among military factions and criminal gangs rather than allowing a power vacuum to form. NUMBER 9REGIONAL SHIFTS: COLOMBIA'S DIPLOMACY AND BRAZIL'S POLITICAL FUTURE Colleague Ernesto Araújo. The discussion focuses on Gustavo Petro's pivot toward the United States and the historical concept of "Grand Colombia." In Brazil, they evaluate Lula da Silva's potential re-election bid against the enduring popularity of the imprisoned Jair Bolsonaro and the influence of new nationalist political forces. NUMBER 10REGIONAL REACTIONS TO MADURO'S CAPTURE AND THE ISOLATION OF CUBA Colleague Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Alejandro Peña Esclusa reports that Venezuelans are celebrating Maduro's capture while the Trumpadministration halts oil shipments to Cuba. He explains that regional left-wing leaders fear a trial will reveal their corrupt ties to Maduro, while the Cuban regime faces collapse without Venezuelan energy. NUMBER 11THE FOUR FAMILIES OF CARACAS AND THE END OF THE REGIME Colleague Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Esclusa analyzes the four mafias currently competing for power in Caracas: the Rodriguez siblings, Diosdado Cabello, Padrino Lopez, and Maduro's remnants. He argues that overwhelming US military force has rendered local weapons irrelevant and that the dismantling of these groups is necessary for elections. NUMBER 12ESCALATING IRANIAN PROTESTS AND POTENTIAL US INTERVENTION Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Edmund Fitton-Brown describes the current Iranian protests as a movement that has shifted into a repression phase characterized by internet blackouts and rising casualties. He argues that US military force targeting repression organs could tip the balance in favor of the protesters, who are increasingly calling for a constitutional monarchy. The regime is reportedly attempting to negotiate following US strike threats. NUMBER 13THE COLLAPSE OF THE AXIS OF RESISTANCE Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Fitton-Brown explains how the fall of the Iranian regime would devastate its regional proxies, including Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iraqi militias, which depend on IRGC funding and training. Without Tehran's "big brother" support, these groups would likely be forced to make accommodations with local governments. He also notes Hezbollah's role as an international drug cartel. NUMBER 14THE ZOMBIE REGIME AND STRATEGIC TARGETS Colleague Jonathan Sai. Jonathan Sai labels the Islamic Republic a "zombie regime" facing an existential threat despite its brutal crackdowns. He reports that the IRGC and foreign militias are using automatic weapons against protesters in cities like Tehran and Mashhad. Sai suggests that USintervention should prioritize striking repression centers and state-run propaganda machines to dismantle the regime's control. NUMBER 15HEZBOLLAH'S SURVIVAL AND THE LOSS OF REGIONAL LIFELINES Colleague David Daoud. David Daoud characterizes Hezbollah as an ideological extension of Iran currently in survival mode as its lifelines in Syria and Venezuela weaken. While Hezbollah wants the regime to survive for power projection, Daoud suggests Iraqi militias are more likely to be physically assisting Tehran's crackdowns due to their proximity and lower combat losses compared to Hezbollah. To clarify the current state of the Iranian government, Jonathan Sai uses the metaphor of a "zombie regime": it may appear to be moving and in control, but it is functionally dead because it can no longer sustain its support base or provide basic necessities for its people. NUMBER 161832 PERSIAN GIRL, SKETCHED ON STONE BY JAMES ATKINSON

 HEZBOLLAH'S SURVIVAL AND THE LOSS OF REGIONAL LIFELINES Colleague David Daoud. David Daoud characterizes Hezbollah as an ideological extension of Iran currently in survival mode as its lifelines in Syria and Venezuela weaken. While Hezbollah wants the regime to survive for power projection, Daoud suggests Iraqi militias are more likely to be physically assisting Tehran's crackdowns due to their proximity and lower combat losses compared to Hezbollah. To clarify the current state of the Iranian government, Jonathan Sai uses the metaphor of a "zombie regime": it may appear to be moving and in control, but it is functionally dead because it can no longer sustain its support base or provide basic necessities for its people. NUMBER 161930 TRIPOLI, LEBANON

THE ZOMBIE REGIME AND STRATEGIC TARGETS Colleague Jonathan Sayeh. Jonathan Sayeh labels the Islamic Republic a "zombie regime" facing an existential threat despite its brutal crackdowns. He reports that the IRGC and foreign militias are using automatic weapons against protesters in cities like Tehran and Mashhad. Sai suggests that USintervention should prioritize striking repression centers and state-run propaganda machines to dismantle the regime's control. NUMBER 151870 Tehran

THE COLLAPSE OF THE AXIS OF RESISTANCE Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Fitton-Brown explains how the fall of the Iranian regime would devastate its regional proxies, including Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iraqi militias, which depend on IRGC funding and training. Without Tehran's "big brother" support, these groups would likely be forced to make accommodations with local governments. He also notes Hezbollah's role as an international drug cartel. NUMBER 141921 ALEPPO

ESCALATING IRANIAN PROTESTS AND POTENTIAL US INTERVENTION Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Edmund Fitton-Brown describes the current Iranian protests as a movement that has shifted into a repression phase characterized by internet blackouts and rising casualties. He argues that US military force targeting repression organs could tip the balance in favor of the protesters, who are increasingly calling for a constitutional monarchy. The regime is reportedly attempting to negotiate following US strike threats. NUMBER 131400 ALI SIMJURI IN BATTLE.

  THE FOUR FAMILIES OF CARACAS AND THE END OF THE REGIME Colleague Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Esclusa analyzes the four mafias currently competing for power in Caracas: the Rodriguez siblings, Diosdado Cabello, Padrino Lopez, and Maduro's remnants. He argues that overwhelming US military force has rendered local weapons irrelevant and that the dismantling of these groups is necessary for elections. NUMBER 121865 VENEZUELA

REGIONAL REACTIONS TO MADURO'S CAPTURE AND THE ISOLATION OF CUBA Colleague Alejandro Peña Esclusa. Alejandro Peña Esclusa reports that Venezuelans are celebrating Maduro's capture while the Trumpadministration halts oil shipments to Cuba. He explains that regional left-wing leaders fear a trial will reveal their corrupt ties to Maduro, while the Cuban regime faces collapse without Venezuelan energy. NUMBER 111886 BOGOTA

REGIONAL SHIFTS: COLOMBIA'S DIPLOMACY AND BRAZIL'S POLITICAL FUTURE Colleague Ernesto Araújo. The discussion focuses on Gustavo Petro's pivot toward the United States and the historical concept of "Grand Colombia." In Brazil, they evaluate Lula da Silva's potential re-election bid against the enduring popularity of the imprisoned Jair Bolsonaro and the influence of new nationalist political forces. NUMBER 101850 Venezuela

THE US-MANAGED TRANSITION IN POST-MADURO VENEZUELA Colleague Ernesto Araújo. John Batchelor and Ernesto Araújo discuss the US-led operation that captured Nicolas Maduro. Araújo describes the current situation as a well-managed transition where the US is navigating internal power struggles among military factions and criminal gangs rather than allowing a power vacuum to form. NUMBER 91937 Venezuela

ESCALATING CONFLICT BETWEEN SYRIAN FORCES AND KURDISH ALLIES Colleague Akmed Khari. Clashes have erupted in Aleppo between the Syrian government and the Kurdish SDF after a failed integration agreement. Akmed Khari notes the complexity of the US coordinating with Syrian security forces that remain riddled with jihadists. The conflict is expected to expand into other contested regions. Analogy: The situation in Syria is like a shaky alliance between rival firefighters who, while ostensibly trying to put out the same blaze, begin turning their hoses on each other while the fire continues to spread. NUMBER 81920 ARMENIAN ORPHANAGE ALEPPO

RUSSIA'S ORESHNIK MISSILE AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DETERRENCE Colleague John Hardy. Russia is utilizing the Oreshnik missile to strike Ukrainian infrastructure, leaving thousands without heat. John Hardy explains these strikes serve as psychological intimidation to deter Western nations from providing security guarantees or ground troops. Recent strikes likely targeted an aircraft repair plant, not gas storage. NUMBER 7OCTOBER 1938

THE SHIFTING BALANCE OF FEAR IN IRAN Colleague Malcolm Hoenlein. As the regime faces potential implosion, discussions involve a return of the Shah's son as a symbolic figurehead, though no clear path to collective leadership exists. Revolutionaries are now tagging the homes of officials, signaling that the balance of fear has shifted from the people to the leadership. NUMBER 61866 TEHRAN

IRANIAN PROTESTS AND THE COLLAPSE OF REGIME CONTROL Colleague Malcolm Hoenlein. Protests across Iran have turned deadly, with reports of hundreds killed by live fire and hospitals refusing wounded demonstrators. Malcolm Hoenlein highlights a communication blackout and a collapsing economy where the currency has plummeted. A new minority coalition of Baluchis and Kurds is now supporting rebellion. NUMBER 51896 BLACKSMITH TEHRAN

REGIME CHANGE AND SHIFTING POWER IN THE AMERICAS Colleagues David Shedd and Bill Roggio. Shedd details the removal of Nicolas Maduro and a regional shift toward center-right governments. This transition aims to end Russian and Chinese influence in the Western Hemisphere. Furthermore, the US is demanding stricter security cooperation from Mexico to dismantle powerful drug cartels. NUMBER 41902 CARACAS

CHINA'S GREAT HEIST OF AMERICAN SECRETS Colleagues David Shedd and Bill Roggio. David Sheddoutlines China's extensive cyber espionage campaigns, including "Salt Typhoon," which successfully hacked US Congressional committees. These operations aim to steal sensitive communications and embed sabotage tools within USinfrastructure, highlighting a critical failure in American defensive preparedness. NUMBER 31956

FICTIONS IN SYRIA AND THE RISKS OF INTERVENTION Colleagues Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani. The discussion focuses on the Syrian conflict, criticizing the US for maintaining "fictions" about local actors and security forces. Haqqani warns against military intervention in Iran, citing past failures like Vietnam and Iraq, noting that military force cannot solve misunderstood political problems. NUMBER 21908 PERSIA

GLOBAL CHAOS AND THE EROSION OF STABILITY Colleagues Bill Roggio and Husain Haqqani. The guests discuss worldwide instability, arguing that the US has abandoned its traditional role in maintaining global order. They examine conflicts in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela, suggesting US actions are often driven by whims rather than strategic planning, leading to a state of heightened chaos. NUMBER 11962

PREVIEW FOR LATER:  RUSSIA'S STRIKES ON UKRAINIAN ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE Colleagues John Hardie and Bill Roggio. John Batchelor and Bill Roggio interview guest John Hardie regarding Russia's strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Hardie highlights the Arashnik missile as a tool for psychological intimidation to deter Western security guarantees. They discuss Russia's tactical use of Shahed drones and decoys against civilians.1951.

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY REBELLION SPREADS IN IRAN'S SISTAN AND BALUCHISTAN PROVINCES Colleague Malcolm Hoenlein. Malcolm Hoenlein reports on the Moarisun Popular Front, a new coalition supporting rebellion in Sunni majority provinces. With reporting limited by internet blackouts, demonstrations have spread to every province, with protesters even taking over police stations as the regime faces significant and widespread unrest.1902 PERSIA

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY EXISTENTIAL THREAT: IRAN'S REGIME UNLEASHES IRGC AND POLICE ON PROTESTERS Colleague Janatyn Sayeh. Janatyn Sayeh details the repression apparatus in Iran, where IRGC ground forces and Basij militia are opening fire on unarmed civilians. Supreme Leader Khamenei views the uprising as an existential threat, ordering ballistic missiles prepared for potential US or Israeli intervention.1890 TEHRAN

PREVIEW FOR LATER TODAY CONFLICT IN ALEPPO: US COUNTERTERRORISM PARTNERS CLASH IN SYRIA Colleague Ahmed Sharawi. Ahmed Sharawi examines fighting in Aleppo between Kurdish forces and the Syrian National Army. Despite both being US counterterrorism partners, the Syrian government's forces remain riddled with jihadists. The US seeks stability and integration while conflict between these allied forces intensifies.1920 ALEPPO

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT HEZBOLLAH'S EXPLOITATION OF VENEZUELAN INSTABILITYColleague David Daoud, Foundation for Defense of Democracies. John Batchelor and David Daoud discuss Hezbollah's operations in Venezuela and the Americas, which involve illicit drugs and other activities. Daoud suggests that Hezbollah's future depends on whether Venezuela establishes a durable, pro-American government to enforce the rule of law or remains in chaos, which the group would exploit.1954 VENEZUELA

PREVIEW FOR LATER TONIGHT POST-MADURO TRANSITION AND OIL STRATEGY Colleague David Shedd, Former Acting Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency. David Shedd analyzes the rendition of Nicolas Maduro to the US for drug trafficking charges and the resulting political transition. He highlights Secretary of State Rubio's plan to restore Venezuela's oil wealth, interdict the "shadow fleet" of tankers, and manage the shift in power alongside acting president Delcy Rodriguez.1947 VENEZUELA

THE CRISIS OF THE THIRD CENTURY AND AMERICAN PARALLELS Colleagues Gaius and Germanicus, Friends of History Debating Society, Londinium, 92 AD. Gaius and Germanicus explore Rome's "Crisis of the Third Century," where military coups and a fractured empire nearly caused total collapse. Germanicus draws parallels to the currently divided US elite and constitutional order, suggesting America might eventually require a "Tetrarchy"—a split management system—to survive its polarization. After debating historical alternatives like the US remaining a Britishdominion, they end with optimism. Citing Rome's miraculous recovery and the rise of Constantinople, they speculate America may eventually build a new, perhaps "space-based," fortress to ensure its longevity. NUMBER 31940

DOMESTIC MELODRAMA AND THE FOG OF RHETORIC Colleagues Gaius and Germanicus, Friends of History Debating Society, Londinium, 92 AD. Turning to domestic matters, the speakers discuss a controversy in Minnesota involving an ICE-related death, describing the situation as a "melodrama" obscured by a "fog of rhetoric." Germanicus contrasts this "theater" with the genuine violence of 19th-century labor strikes and the Spanish Civil War, warning that while current events are performative, the specialized training of opposing factions is dangerous. They conclude that these domestic battles follow a script of performative chaos similar to foreign policy, risking a slide into real insurrection if the "talk" ever crosses the threshold into actual violence. NUMBER 21953