Podcasts about democracies

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: First up — the war with Iran enters a dangerous new phase, as both sides begin targeting critical energy infrastructure, raising the risk to global supply. We're joined by Janatan Sayeh from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to break down what this shift means and where the conflict could head next. Later in the show — China finds itself deeply exposed as the war threatens its energy lifeline, with Beijing relying on Iran for the vast majority of its oil imports. Casey Fleming joins us to explain what's at stake—and how China could respond. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief American Financing: Call American Financing today to find out how customers are saving an avg of $800/mo. NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. APR for rates in the 5s start at 6.196% for well qualified borrowers. Call 866-885-1881 for details about credit costs and terms. Visit http://www.AmericanFinancing.net/PDB Ava: See how millions are boosting their credit with Ava—download the Ava app and use code BAKER for 20% off your first year. CBDistillery: Visit https://CBDistillery.comand use promo code VIP for 50% off your entire order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of John Solomon Reports, we dive deep into the critical issue of election integrity with groundbreaking revelations that could reshape the narrative surrounding voter security. John Solomon unveils shocking details about U.S. intelligence agencies that have known since the spring of 2020 about China's access to American voter registration files. Unlike the swift national crisis that ensued in Britain following a similar breach, the American response has been marked by silence and cover-up.John discusses a declassified document that confirms Chinese intelligence was analyzing voter data to influence the 2020 election, a fact that was kept from the public and Congress for years. He shares insights from intelligence officials who express disbelief at the lack of transparency regarding this serious breach. The conversation raises pressing questions about the implications of foreign interference in U.S. elections and the ongoing debates surrounding voter ID laws.Additionally, we explore the troubling actions of the Biden administration in suppressing information about this issue and the potential risks that come with unauthorized access to voter registration data. John emphasizes the importance of vigilance in protecting election integrity and the need for accountability in Congress.As the episode unfolds, we also present exclusive footage from Maricopa County's election processing center, revealing concerns raised by bipartisan congressional monitors about the integrity of the election process. This visual evidence adds another layer to the ongoing conversation about transparency and trust in our electoral system.Today's guests include Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters. He shares insights on the current state of elections and the importance of safeguarding voter registration data.We also feature Jonathan Schanzer from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who provides an analysis of the geopolitical landscape, focusing on the threats posed by Iran, Cuba, and Venezuela. His expertise sheds light on the dangers that these nations present in today's world.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Israeli forces continue to push further into southern Lebanon, in what the IDF says is their goal to expand the "forward defense area" in order to decimate the terror group Hezbollah. Hezbollah, in coordinated attacks with Iran, have launched hundreds of missiles into residential areas of Israel. Meanwhile, top Iranian official Ali Larijani was killed in an Israeli strike, according to an Israeli battle damage assessment. FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Dr. Jonathan Schanzer, the executive director at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, who says Hezbollah won't be fully defeated until their Iranian sponsors are handled with first. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rating democracies is a tricky business.  Something makes the Indian Subcontinent different. All of its nations, from the Maldives through Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan have regular elections. Of course the quality of democracy varies, let's say from Pakistan at the lowest rung to India. Peaceful power transfers followed uprisings in India's neighbourhood— from Bangladesh, Nepal to Sri Lanka. Watch this week's #NationalInterest with ThePrint Editor-In-Chief Shekhar Gupta   

Venezuela. Greenland. Iran. Things have been moving so quickly that we weren't even at war with Iran when we recorded this episode of The Gray Area with Sean Illing. It's only March, but it's been a long year.  The war in Iran is only the latest sign that something deep is shifting in our global politics.  Alliances fraying. Norms weakening. Democracies wobbling. So what exactly is happening? Is the liberal international order slowly eroding? Is it just going through a particularly turbulent chapter? Or are we watching it all collapse? Sean talks with Zack Beauchamp, author of Vox's On the Right newsletter, about the global democratic backslide and whether the American-led liberal order is slipping, imploding, or just going through a rough patch. Their conversation, which was recorded before the conflict in Iran, digs into the Greenland saga, alliance politics, and why democratic decay can be both obvious and hard to see at the same time.  Host: Sean Illing (@SeanIlling) Guest: Zack Beauchamp (@zackbeauchamp) We would love to hear from you. To tell us what you thought of this episode, email us at thegrayarea@vox.com or leave us a voicemail at 1-800-214-5749. Your comments and questions help us make a better show.  And you can watch new episodes of The Gray Area on YouTube. New episodes drop every Monday and Friday.Listen to The Gray Area ad-free by becoming a Vox Member: vox.com/members. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

PRVIEW FOR LATER: Sinan Ciddi of the Foundation for Defense of Democraciesanalyzes Turkey's "boundary testing"during the Iran war. He explores military posturing in Cyprus and Turkey's fear of direct involvement. (2)1870 ST. SOPHIA CONSTANTINOPLE

This week kicked off with Turkey announcing the deployment of a number of fighter jets to the occupied part of Cyprus, a move that not only represents a significant escalation in the militarization of the Eastern Mediterranean, where Cyprus has already been targeted by Iranian-made drones, but that may also violate US law. This isn't the only thing putting Cyprus in the headlines this week. Axios and the Financial Times reported Cyprus could potentially mediate talks between Israel and Lebanon after violence broke out between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group. Turkey's moves in the Eastern Mediterranean aren't the only thing worrying analysts and observers. Developments on the domestic front are also keeping those watching the region on alert, as the trial of Ekrem Imamoglu, the imprisoned mayor of Istanbul, kicked off this week. Imamoglu's trial is largely seen as politically motivated and an effort to prevent him from challenging President Erdogan. Sinan Ciddi, Elisa Ewers, Lisel Hintz, and Henri Barkey join Thanos Davelis this week as we take a closer look at Turkey's decision to deploy fighter jets to the occupied part of Cyprus, Israel's escalating offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the trial of Ekrem Imamoglu. Taking us to our “I am HALC” segment, we're spotlighting Eleni Delimpaltadaki Janis, a founding member of HALC with a career that spans across government and the private sector. This includes serving as Vice President at the New York City Economic Development Corporation, and working to transform and solve some of the world's most persistent socio-economic problems as a founder of Equivico. Stay tuned as we dig into her story. A little more info on our guests: Sinan Ciddi is a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and director of its Turkey program. Elisa Ewers is a senior fellow for Middle East Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. Lisel Hintz is an Assistant Professor of International Relations at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. Henri Barkey is an adjunct senior fellow for Middle East studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and the Bernard L. and Bertha F. Cohen chair in international relations at Lehigh University (Emeritus). You can support The Greek Current by joining HALC as a member here.

PREVIEW FOR LATER. Natalie Ecanowexplores Qatar's contradictory role as a U.S. ally while hosting groups like Hamas and the Taliban. She highlights evidence of secret funding to Hamas leadership, bypassing official channels,. GUEST AND AFFILIATION: Natalie Ecanow, Foundation for the Defense of Democracies,. (2)1904 DOHA

SHOW SCHEDULE THURSDAY 3-12-20261917 COTSWOLDS ENGLAND1. Mary Anastasia O'Grady (Wall Street Journal) discusses Iranian presence in Venezuela, focusing on war drones and agents with Venezuelan passports. She notes the U.S. recognition of Delcy Rodriguez as acting president while pursuing a democratic transition. (1)2. Natalie Ecanow (Foundation for Defense of Democracies) examines Qatar's "Special Watch List" designation for religious freedom abuses, specifically involving a Baha'i leader. She highlights the contradiction of Qatar hosting groups like Hamas while maintaining strategic U.S. partnerships. (2)3. Jeff McCausland (CBS News) analyzes modern warfare's reliance on drones and missiles, noting the lack of a clear U.S. strategy for the Iran conflict. He criticizes the administration's poor messaging regarding tragic civilian casualties. (3)4. Jeff McCausland (CBS News) discusses technology favoring defense in Ukraine and Iran through drones and GPS. He examines Iran's asymmetric strategy targeting global supply chains and their willingness to fight a long attrition war. (4)5. Evan Ellis (U.S. Army War College) details Panama's port contract disputes with China and the transition to APM Terminals. He also discusses ongoing lawfare in Guatemala and the U.S. intention to return Haitian migrants despite local violence. (5)6. Evan Ellis (U.S. Army War College) reports on rumored secret diplomacy between the U.S. and Cuba's Castro family. He explains Cuba's severe economic collapse and electricity crisis following the loss of subsidized oil from Venezuela. (6)7. Evan Ellis (U.S. Army War College) discusses U.S. direct engagement with Venezuela's leadership regarding oil and mining investments. He also analyzes shifting political trends in Colombia and Peru, where right-of-center candidates are gaining significant momentum. (7)8. Evan Ellis (U.S. Army War College) notes cooled relations between Brazil's Lula and the U.S. due to Brazil's foreign policy shifts toward the BRICS. He also analyzes the rise of conservative leader Jose Antonio Kast in Chile. (8)9. Paul Thomas Chamberlain (Columbia University) recounts U.S. strategic calculations before Pearl Harbor, highlighting uncertainty about carrier technology. He describes the U.S. as a reluctant, "anti-colonial" empire facing imminent threats to its Philippine possessions and interests. (9)10. Paul Thomas Chamberlain (Columbia University) identifies late 1942 as World War II's turning point, citing Stalingrad, Guadalcanal, and North Africa. These battles signaled the rise of continent-spanning superpowers over traditional colonial empires in a new world order. (10)11. Paul Thomas Chamberlain (Columbia University) analyzes the Casablanca and Cairo conferences, highlighting Roosevelt's strategies to keep Stalin as an ally. The U.S. promoted anti-colonialism and self-determination to establish a post-war liberal capitalist order dominated by American economy. (11)12. Paul Thomas Chamberlain (Columbia University) examines Allied plans like Operation Ranke to contain Soviet influence as Germany neared collapse. Despite focusing on Europe, the U.S. successfully launched simultaneous offensive thrusts across the Pacific against the Japanese Empire. (12)13. Anatol Lieven (Quincy Institute) discusses the Iran war's impact, noting Russia's benefits through increased energy profits and diverted Western air defenses. He criticizes the U.S. administration for failing to predict predictable Iranian retaliation against global energy supplies. (13)14. Anatol Lieven (Quincy Institute) explores the resurgence of the "Great Game," detailing Israel's goal to dismantle the Iranian state. He argues that bombing will not break Iranian resistance and notes European reluctance to impose sanctions. (14)15. Richard Epstein (Civitas Institute) criticizes President Trump's trade policies and tariff investigations, arguing they cause severe domestic economic dislocation. He highlights the legal uncertainty businesses face regarding tariff refunds and the potential for prolonged litigation. (15)16. Richard Epstein (Civitas Institute) discusses the Middle East war's threat to niche commodities essential for high-end microchips. He critiques recent energy policies and emphasizes the difficulty of assessing military progress due to limited public information. (16)

Subscribe here to Inside Call me Back ------- Please take 5 minutes to fill out Ark Media's LISTENER SURVEY ____ Is the Iran War actually heading toward an end, or just getting started?  Almost two weeks into the conflict, the United States and Israel have laid waste to Iran's external war capabilities. As the Pentagon signals the end of "Phase One," the focus shifts from destroying missile launchers to a much bigger question: can advanced technology and air superiority achieve what was once thought possible only with boots on the ground? Dan is joined by Rich Goldberg, senior advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, to unpack the military scorecard, the high-stakes messaging of the oil markets, and the "science fiction" reality of modern AI-driven warfare. In this episode: 05:20 – Military Progress: Assessing the Damage to Iran's Arsenal 09:25 – Economic Warfare: Using Presidential Messaging to Control Oil Prices 11:05 – Breaking the Siege: Ending Iran's Control of the Strait of Hormuz 14:05 – Intelligence Debates: Is the Iranian Regime Near a Tipping Point? 26:10 – The Ground War Debate: Why Air Superiority Might Be Enough 31:40 – The High-Stakes Mission to Extract Buried Nuclear Material 36:35 – Beyond Iraq: How AI and Technology Have Changed War-Fighting 42:45 – The Future of the US-Israel Defense Tech Partnership More Ark Media: Want to join Ark Media? Check out our careers page for new openings. Explore Israel Votes Listen to For Heaven's Sake Listen to What's Your Number? Watch Call me Back on YouTube Newsletters | Ark Media | Amit Segal | Nadav Eyal Instagram | Ark Media | Dan X | Dan Dan Senor & Saul Singer's book, The Genius of Israel Get in touch Credits: Ilan Benatar, Adaam James Levin-Areddy, Brittany Cohen, Ava Weiner, Martin Huergo, Mariangeles Burgos, and Patricio Spadavecchia, Yuval Semo

For an assessment of where things stand with the war in Iran, Geoff Bennett sat down with Alan Eyre and Behnam Ben Taleblu. Eyre was part of the Obama administration's negotiating team for the nuclear deal with Iran and is now at the Middle East Institute. Taleblu is at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, where he is the senior director of their Iran Program. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

0:30 - Tiffany Henyard 32:58 - Islamist terrorist attack outside Gracie Mansion 48:06 - Animal Stories 51:31 - Noah Rothman of National Review looks at What’s Gone Right in the Iran War? Pre-order Noah’s next book! Blood and Progress: A Century of Left-Wing Violence in America 01:12:23 - Why Dan Proft is Single 01:31:24 - Former CPS CEO and mayoral candidate Paul Vallas explains why Chicago continues to lead the nation in murders, youth killings, mass shootings, and domestic violence deaths. Keep up with Paul on X @PaulVallas 01:48:57 - Cliff May, president of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, believes the U.S. has the capability to control the Strait of Hormuz. Stay on top of Iran with Cliff on X @CliffordDMay 02:06:58 - Economist and professor at George Mason University, Don Boudreaux, shares his Reflections on Four Decades of Teaching ECON 101. Check out Don’s blog at cafehayek.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What exactly drove President Donald Trump's decision to join Israel in joint strikes against Iran? Ronen Bergman joins from Tel Aviv where he is a Senior Correspondent for Military and Intelligence Affairs for Yedioth Ahronoth and staff writer for The New York Times Magazine. He shares his reporting of how Netanyahu moved Trump toward a joint strike, and why he's staying quiet about it for now. Then, retired Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus, former Israeli Defence Forces spokesperson and senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, breaks down the major Israeli military objectives and how close Israel is to achieving each one. Plus, what Arab Gulf states are privately telling Israel.  In this episode: 01:24 New Leader Wounded 06:42 Israel Aims And Limits 09:36 Regime Change Doubts 16:14 Israeli Public Mood 23:30 Intel Airpower Strategy 25:12 Introducing LT. COL. (RET.) Jonathan Conricus  29:48 Strait of Hormuz Threat 32:45 Stopping Enriched Uranium 36:21 War Communications as Force Multiplier  40:55 Regime Change Scenarios 43:58 Gulf States Defense  Show Notes:  Iran's New Supreme Leader Was Wounded Early in the War, Iranian and Israeli Officials Say - The New York Times  Hosted by Sir Richard Dearlove (former MI6 Chief) and Rosanna Lockwood (International Journalist) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For an assessment of where things stand with the war in Iran, Geoff Bennett sat down with Alan Eyre and Behnam Ben Taleblu. Eyre was part of the Obama administration's negotiating team for the nuclear deal with Iran and is now at the Middle East Institute. Taleblu is at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, where he is the senior director of their Iran Program. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

Show recorded on March 9, 2026:  In this episode, Mike examined the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran and its wider implications. He highlighted insights from Behnam Ben Taleblu of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies on The Morning Wire, with Jon Bickley, who discussed reports of jubilation among some Iranians following developments in the war, and from Rear Admiral (Ret.) Mike Studeman on The Cipher Brief, with Brad Christian, who gave his perspective of the strategic ramifications of the conflict. Mike also highlighted two of Florida's gubernatorial candidates, including controversies surrounding James Fishback, who is gaining popularity with Gen-Z men, and comments from Congressman Bryan Donalds, who condemned antisemitic messages among young Republicans in South Florida. Mike addressed the rising antisemitism in Canada and security concerns over potential Iranian threats against the U.S. president through dangerous sleeper cells in the country. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to The Third Opinion Podcast!

### STREAM-ROGGIO-SAYEH-TUESDAY-3-9.mp3 (2)*  50-Word Summary: This recording covers the production and live broadcast of the John Batchelor Show during an escalating Middle East conflict. The hosts analyze surging oil prices and the Iranian regime's strategy of economic pressure. They debate the limitations of air power and the necessity of internal resistance for regime change. *  Guests: * Bill Roggio: Senior fellow for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and editor of the *Long War Journal*. *  Husain Haqqani: Former ambassador from Pakistan to the United States and senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. *  Jonathan Sayeh (referred to as "Janatyn" in the transcript): Expert on Iran at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies who previously lived in Tehran. *  (3)1978 ANTI-SHAH PROTEST

On today's Technology Report program, Dr. Jim Lewis of the Center for European Policy Analysis and Mark Montgomery of the Defense of Democracies and a Cyberspace Solarium Commission senior adviser join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to analyze the Trump administration's new National Cyber Strategy; whether strategy weighted toward offensive operations will succeed; how the administration will execute an interagency approach to cybersecurity when cyber capabilities across government and law enforcement have been gutted; the implications of issuing a strategy that doesn't name Russia and China that are America's leading cyber threats; whether commercial cyber firms can fill the gap in diminished government cyber capacity; takeaways from the Pentagon's feud with Anthropic; and an update on CMMC.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of this war with Iran is how viciously the country is attacking its Arab neighbors. The UAE has been hammered, actually targeted with more missiles than were directed at Israel. Senior FDD fellow and regular State of Tel Aviv and Beyond guest, Lt. Col. (Res.) Jonathan Conricus gets into this bizarre development that no one anticipated. Initially, some pundits were assuming there was a brilliant Iranian plan behind these attacks. But as we discuss in this episode, it is now clear that Iran lashing out at its neighbors is the result of chaos in the government and military. We also zoom out to look at the broad waves of attacks on Iran by America and Israel and what they have accomplished; what remains to be done. If the murderous regime in Iran falls the geopolitical fallout will be huge; the most extensive and far reaching since WWII. We also take a hard look at the conduct of unprincipled western leadership - like that of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Great video clips in this episode and some awesome retro photos from the 70s. Who remembers the OPEC oil embargo after the 1973 Arab Israeli war, also known as the Yom Kippur War? And, of course - we discuss the very real possibility of boots on the ground in Iran. Whose boots?Show your support for STLV at buymeacoffee.com/stateoftelavivPodcast Notes:* Link to FDD report on Iran's Ballistic Missile Program, referred to in the podcast by Jonathan Conricus.* IDF video released on International Women's Day highlighting the extraordinary contribution of women in the Israeli Air Force, referred to in the podcast by Jonathan Conricus.Jonathan Conricus is a senior fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a Washington D.C.-based think tank. He served in the IDF for 24 years, four of them as spokesman during the intense 11 days of the Guardian of the Walls Operation between Israel and Hamas. Now a reserve officer with the rank of Lt. Col., he is a sought-after speaker internationally and is frequently seen on major television news shows. Jonathan was born in Jerusalem to a Swedish father and an Israeli mother and spent his formative years in Sweden.State of Tel Aviv is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.stateoftelaviv.com/subscribe

Well, the quagmire has set in. The Iran war is in its second week and Oil Prices are above $100 a barrel and even though it was clear from the first shots being fired it is now manifest that Trump has no strategy. And his ability to act with impunity shows that constraining leaders to act with strategy rather than just opportunism is a key aspect of democracy and accountability. We are trying to focus on solutions, to see what is working in Britain, and to chat through various amorphous topics, such as: ‘What is Strategy?' and why does democracy have a communications problem. In 2011, statistics show that 11 democracies suffered backsliding into autocracy. Today: that number is in the mid-40s. With Trump's America at the peak of that shift, what can be done to reverse that trend? And better yet, what can be done to protect all democracies going forward? Can institutions be made in advance that could protect democratic backsliding before it happens?!? To build on our recent episode with Graham Zellick on how democracy is protected in the UK, Jason is joined by Richard Symons. Richard is the founder of Compass & Co —a UK-based strategy and communications firm helping leaders with policy, corporate strategy, and clear messaging in complex environments.  They discuss the pressing issue of democratic backsliding, what it means, what causes it, some innovative solutions being proposed, including in Wales, and as they Order the Disorder, they look at the need for a ‘right to facts' type law, and why bold leadership is needed to maintain democracy. To join our Mega Orderers Club for ad free listening, early episode releases and exclusive access to live events, visit https://disorder.supportingcast.fm/ Producer: George McDonagh Subscribe to our Substack - https://natoandtheged.substack.com/ Disorder on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DisorderShow Show Notes Links: For more on compass and Co https://www.compass-strat.com/  Read: The Revenge of Power: How Autocrats Are Reinventing Politics for the 21st Century - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Revenge-Power-Autocrats-Reinventing-Politics/dp/B096WDF625/  Read: Has Wales found the solution to Autocracy? https://justhinkin.substack.com/p/has-wales-found-the-solution-to-autocracy?r=3cs2wr  Read: What's Really Driving America to In'soul'vency? https://justhinkin.substack.com/p/whos-driving-the-insoulvency?r=3cs2wr Listen to our episode with Sir Geoff Mulgan to hear more about his Right to Truth idea: https://pod.link/1706818264/episode/Y2Y1ZTFhOTAtZjJjNC0xMWYwLTljMTMtYzc5MjBhZmIxYTU0  Listen to our episode with Elie Honig where similar issues are addressed in the US context and how the powerful are held to account via the Special Prosecutor system: https://pod.link/1706818264/episode/NmU0ZGIzZTQtYjhhMS0xMWYwLTk0NWQtZWZlN2MwMWI1YWJm  To join our Mega Orderers Club for ad free listening, early episode releases and exclusive access to live events, visit https://disorder.supportingcast.fm/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Iran's Assembly of Experts has elected Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the country's new supreme leader. The younger Khamenei, aged 56, was long considered a contender for the position, even before an Israeli strike killed his father, and despite never being elected or appointed to a government position. Khamenei has not been seen publicly for days, and now stands as the head of Iran's theocracy and will have final say over all matters of state. FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior director of the Foundation of the Defense of Democracies' Iran Program, who says while Mojtaba is younger, don't expect any sort of change in a hardliner rule of the country. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Steve Gruber Show | America Under Pressure: War in Iran, Terror Scare in NYC, Gas Prices Rising --- 00:00 - Monologue 9:00 – Dr. Patrick Graff, Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children. Graff discusses new research showing Florida's investment in school choice is significantly more cost-effective than increasing traditional public school spending. He explains how expanding educational options can improve outcomes while reducing costs. 19:10 – Kent Strang, Managing Director at Americans for Prosperity. Strang breaks down the Trump affordability agenda and the policies aimed at lowering costs for American families. He explains how regulatory reform and economic policy could help ease inflation pressures. 38:11 - Monologue 47:09 – Phil Kerpen, President of American Commitment. Kerpen warns against what he calls a reckless “war on credit cards.” He discusses how proposed regulations could reduce consumer access to credit and negatively impact the broader economy. 57:20 – Michael J. Reitz, Executive Vice President of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. Reitz analyzes the current state of Michigan under Governor Gretchen Whitmer's leadership. He discusses policy decisions and their impact on the state's economy and governance. 1:06:11 – Robert H. Bork Jr., President of the Antitrust Education Project and author of The New Paradox: Antitrust and the Threat of Conservative Socialism. Bork explores whether the Republican Party is drifting toward what he calls “conservative socialism.” He discusses antitrust policy and the broader debate about government intervention in markets. 1:16:15 - Monologue 1:35:14 – David Daoud, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Daoud provides updates on the latest developments involving Iran. He explains the geopolitical stakes and what the situation could mean for U.S. foreign policy. --- Check out our brand new podcast, 'Forgotten America'... The third episode is live NOW at Steve Gruber on YouTube! Link below: https://youtu.be/vZiEUjtQ-m4

Iran's Assembly of Experts has elected Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the country's new supreme leader. The younger Khamenei, aged 56, was long considered a contender for the position, even before an Israeli strike killed his father, and despite never being elected or appointed to a government position. Khamenei has not been seen publicly for days, and now stands as the head of Iran's theocracy and will have final say over all matters of state. FOX's Eben Brown speaks with Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior director of the Foundation of the Defense of Democracies' Iran Program, who says while Mojtaba is younger, don't expect any sort of change in a hardliner rule of the country. Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The PDB Situation Report: One week into the conflict with Iran, the coalition air campaign continues at full intensity as aircraft strike military targets across the country. Former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot Ryan Bodenheimer joins us to explain how these operations are unfolding, what the targets reveal about the strategy, and what the early days of the air war tell us about where the campaign could go next. The war may soon expand beyond the skies. Reports suggest Kurdish forces could engage Iranian troops along the country's western border, potentially opening a new front in the conflict. Bill Roggio from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies joins us to break down the possibility of Kurdish involvement and what it could mean for Tehran's already stretched military. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Ethos Life Insurance: Protect your family's future with fast, online life insurance from Ethos—get your free quote in minutes at https://Ethos.com/PDB  Goldbelly: Discover iconic meals from legendary restaurants delivered nationwide with Goldbelly—get 20% off your first order at https://Goldbelly.com using promo code PDB. DeleteMe: Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to https://joindeleteme.com/PDB and use promocode PDB at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. has hit hundreds of targets in Iran since the launch of Operation Epic Fury on Feb. 28, and President Donald Trump says the U.S. will not accept anything less than “unconditional surrender” from Iran. While recent polling shows significant support for the operation, some Americans fear another “forever war” in the Middle East.   Fear over an extended conflict with Iran and its proxies, such as Hezbollah, is driven, at least in part, by the words “regime change,” Natalie Ecanow, a senior research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, explains.   “Obviously, we would like to see regime change as an outcome of the current American and Israeli operation in Iran. As far as I know, and as far as I understand, that is not a stated objective of our campaign,” Ecanow says.   U.S. actions in Iran, according to the White House, remain focused on eliminating the nuclear and missile threat Iran poses to the U.S. and its allies, a mission that reasonably falls in line with Trump's “America First” agenda.   “We can throw the door open to regime change. We can support regime change, but we're not going in and doing the regime change ourselves,” Ecanow says on the “Problematic Women” podcast. “I think that's a very important distinction to be made when it comes to that argument … about dragging us into another ‘forever war,' doing another Iraq, etc. It's really important to understand that the objectives of Operation Epic Fury are mostly military. They don't really have to do with changing domestic politics in Iran.”   Ecanow joins the show to discuss the nuclear threat Iran has posed to the United States and breaks down the reasons why she believes the operation is in line with the “America First” agenda.   Also on today's show, we discuss the feminist movement's response, or lack of response, to the Iranian regime, which, as the European Union reports, has been responsible for the deaths of more women than any other nation in the world. Trump Says Iran Must 'Unconditionally Surrender' to US President Donald Trump says the only deal he will accept with Iran is “unconditionally surrender” to the United States.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FULL STREAM### March 2: Outbreak of War and Regional Volatility (1)XERXES I OF PERSIAHeadline: The Fog of War Descends Following US-Israeli Strikes on Iran (2)Summary: This file covers the chaotic initial hours of the war with Iranfollowing significant US and Israeli military strikes. Host John Batchelor and guests analyze the "long war" perspective, noting that while President Trump anticipates a conflict lasting four to five weeks, significant concerns exist regarding the absence of a ground game for regime change. The conflict has caused immediate global economic shockwaves, with oil and natural gas prices spiking as Qatari and Saudi energy production faces Iranian missile and drone threats. Reports of "friendly fire" emerge from Kuwait, where three American F-15s were downed by allied air defenses. Simultaneously, an "open war" has erupted on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, as Pakistan launches air strikes against the Taliban, claiming to have killed their supreme leader. Inside Iran, thousands of young people are reportedly taking to the streets to support the regime's collapse. (3)Guest(s): Bill Roggio (Foundation for the Defense of Democracies), Husain Haqqani (Former Pakistan Ambassador to the US), Jonathan Syeh (Foundation for the Defense of Democracies). (4)

FULL STREAM### March 3: European Instability and Widening Conflict (5)1638 PERSIAHeadline: Europe Faces Energy Panic as Middle East War Intensifies(6)Summary: On the second day of the conflict, the focus shifts to Europe's lack of readiness for the resulting 50% spike in natural gas prices and rising inflation. Judy Dempsey highlights the "discombobulated" leadership within the EU and NATO as they struggle to coordinate a response. While French President Macron proposes a shared nuclear umbrella, German Chancellor Scholz meets with President Trump to seek clarity on war aims. Domestically, US polls indicate a lack of public support for the war, with only 27% of voters favoring the intervention. The Afghanistan-Pakistanconflict remains intense as Pakistan targets abandoned US equipment and militant camps. In Iraq, Iranian-backed militias have launched at least 16 drone attacks against US bases, though Baghdad remains relatively quiet as Iran attempts to maintain its political hooks in the Iraqi government. (7)Guest(s): Judy Dempsey (Carnegie Endowment for International Peace), Bill Roggio (Foundation for the Defense of Democracies). (8)

When the U.S. recently launched strikes on Iran, the world's attention turned to Diego Garcia, a vital military base in the Indian Ocean. Known as the “footprint of freedom,” this isolated atoll allows the U.S. to port Navy ships, resupply nuclear submarines, and launch strategic bombers. However, its future is in serious jeopardy.During the conflict, the UK initially withheld permission for the U.S. to launch strikes from the island. Beyond that, the UK has been pushing a highly controversial deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago, which includes Diego Garcia, to Mauritius.In this episode, hosts Ray Powell and Jim Carouso are joined by Cleo Paskal, Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and a leading expert on Chinese political warfare. Cleo unpacks the dangerous implications of the Chagos handover, warning it could allow Chinese maritime assets to operate dangerously close to U.S. forces, threatening American power projection.Cleo unpacks the uncertain prospects for the deal, and then proposes instead giving the Chagossian people a democratic vote in their future, and suggests they may very well prefer the status quo or even a U.S. affiliation to any handover to Mauritius.The conversation then pivots to the Pacific Islands, where China is quietly expanding its influence through political and gray zone warfare. Cleo details how a Chinese state-owned company secured a foothold in Yap (Federated States of Micronesia) by building a remote runway, gaining political leverage and physical presence right next to planned U.S. defense infrastructure.Cleo also sounds the alarm on the U.S. territory of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). Located on the Second Island Chain, CNMI currently allows Chinese tourists to arrive without a visa, leading to massive local corruption, intelligence risks, and illegal maritime crossings into the highly secure military hubs of Guam.Tune in to discover why Cleo believes the transfer of Diego Garcia would be a “colossal strategic blunder,” how China is co-opting U.S. funds for its own Belt and Road projects, and why the frontline of Indo-Pacific security is much closer to home than we realize.

Warning: moderate strong languageEce Temelkaran is an award-winning journalist and novelist who has spent years warning that the collapse of democracy rarely announces itself with a bang. Instead, it happens gradually - institution is weaken, truth is eroded and what once felt unthinkable becomes normal. Ece knows this first hand. After being fired from her newspaper in Turkey amid mounting political pressure, she watched her country slide towards what she says is authoritarianism, a story she believes is no longer uniquely Turkish but part of a wider global pattern. In her writing, she argues that the real danger isn't just strong men or populist leaders, but how easily societies adapt to them. Her latest book, Nation of Strangers, explores belonging and exile. But beneath it lies the same urgent question that has defined much of her work. How do democracies fail? And can they still be saved? On this episode of Ways to Change the World, Krishnan Guru-Murthy speaks to Ece about democratic backsliding, the moral crisis she believes sits at the heart of modern politics, the experience of exile, and why rebuilding democracy may require not just political change, but a deeper transformation in how we see ourselves and each other.This interview was recorded on 13 February 2026.

Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus (Ret.) (Senior Fellow, Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and Former IDF Spokesperson) joins Chris Cuomo to explain how Israel sees the war with Iran — and why Israeli leaders reject the idea that Israel is dragging the United States into the conflict. Conricus breaks down how the strikes unfolded, what intelligence triggered the timing of the attack, and why he believes the operation was clearly led by the United States with Israel bearing the greatest immediate risk. He also explains the structure of the Iranian regime — including the role of the Revolutionary Guard, the Quds Force, and the internal security apparatus that keeps the government in power. The conversation explores whether regime change in Iran is realistic, how the Iranian military and proxy networks are responding, and why Israel believes Iran may be weaker and more isolated than many analysts assume. Cuomo also presses Conricus on civilian casualties, messaging failures around the reported strike on a school, and whether failing to acknowledge mistakes risks damaging public trust during wartime. Join The Chris Cuomo Project on YouTube for ad-free episodes, early releases, exclusive access to Chris, and more: https://www.youtube.com/@chriscuomo/join Follow and subscribe to The Chris Cuomo Project on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday: https://linktr.ee/cuomoproject Protect your family with life insurance from Ethos now, by going to https://Ethos.com/CUOMO Go to https://quince.com/cuomo for free shipping and 365-day returns on quality essentials, now available in Canada. Save more than 50% on term life insurance at https://selectquote.com/chrisc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Max Meizlish of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies proposes an "economic strike force" to provide post-regime Iran with financial stability and credit, rebuilding the nation while successfully pushing out Chinese interests. (2)1925 PERSIA FROM THE AIR

Josh opens the show with the latest developments involving Iran and reacts to comments made Wednesday by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. He also addresses how some of the loudest opposition to the strikes is coming from a small group of voices on the Right, even as most polling shows strong support among Republicans for the action taken over the weekend. Josh examines the motivations behind that criticism and discusses how he believes those arguments should be challenged. Later, Josh is joined by Rich Goldberg, Senior Advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, to break down the strikes on Iran and explain why he believes the timing for the operation was necessary. To close the show, Josh looks at the latest political developments, including key primary races unfolding in Texas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's next for Israel, Iran and the Region? Conricus, Lt Col (R) and IDF past spokesman, Senior Fellow at FDD (Foundation for Defense of Democracies).  For more info visit :  FDD.org PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://yishaifleisher.com/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YishaiFleisherTVSUPPORT & CONNECT:Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/yishaiFight4Israel: https://fight4israel.givecloud.coTwitter: https://twitter.com/YishaiFleisherLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yishaifleisherFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/YishaiFleisher  Support the show

Recorded on March 2, 2026: This week's episode confronts one of the most consequential geopolitical developments in recent memory: the joint U.S. and Israeli strike on Iran. While Mike and Laureen find common ground on several key points, they engage in a spirited and at times heated debate over the legitimacy and long-term implications of the American attack. The program features analysis from leaders at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, including Executive Director Jonathan Shanzer, CEO Mark Dubowitz and Senior Advisor Rich Goldberg. Their discussion explores the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, along with other top Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) leaders, reactions from Iranians  and the high-stakes question of who — or what — could replace the current regime. The episode also includes perspective from independent journalist and podcaster Thom Hartmann, offering additional context and commentary on the rapidly shifting political landscape. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast.

Michael joins Rear Admiral (Ret.) Mark Montgomery of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to discuss the U.S.-Israel combined attacks on Iran. RADM Montgomery, an expert in U.S. national security, explores the potential for Iranian regime change, regional security impacts, and Iran's strategic vulnerabilities. He also breaks down the massive air power currently assembled in the region and the likelihood of an expanded Iranian retaliation campaign.

How will the Iranian people respond to yesterday's strikes and President Trump's call to arms? We speak with Tehran native Janatan Sayeh, an Iran Analyst for the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, for an insider's perspective. Get the facts first with Morning Wire. - - - Ep. 2658 - - - Wake up with new Morning Wire merch: https://bit.ly/4lIubt3 - - - Today's Sponsors: Balance of Nature - Go to ⁠https://BalanceofNature.com⁠ and order the Whole Health System supplements as a Preferred Customer today. Good Ranchers - Get $25 off your first order and free meat for life when you use code WIRE at https://GoodRanchers.com - - - Privacy Policy: https://www.dailywire.com/privacy morning wire,morning wire podcast,the morning wire podcast,Georgia Howe,John Bickley,daily wire podcast,podcast,news podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

War with Iran is no longer a distant possibility. It's a looming reality. As tensions reach a boiling point, the question is no longer if the Middle East will shift, but when. n this urgent and eye-opening episode of Stakscast, Jonathan Conricus — Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and former international spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces — lays out what a potential U.S. strike on Iran could actually look like. We examine the growing threat from Tehran, the expanding shadow war encircling Israel, and what a full-scale conflict could mean not just for the region, but for the entire world. From Hamas' grip on Gaza to the strategic alignment between Qatar and Turkey, new power blocs are forming behind the scenes — and they could dramatically reshape the balance of power across the Middle East.  The lines are being drawn. The alliances are forming. And the world is watching. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tune in here to this Friday edition of the Brett Winterble Show! Brett kicks off the show with Pete Kaliner for this week’s Friday Hangover; they discuss the spectacle surrounding closed-door testimony from figures like Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, and whether anything meaningful ever comes from these political dramas. The conversation quickly turns into a broader commentary on the “clown show” nature of congressional hearings, with both hosts questioning why serious proceedings so often feature headline-chasing lawmakers. Later Brett is joined by Don Brown from Iredell County to discuss the latest developments in his Senate campaign and the major issues shaping the political landscape. Don Brown shares his reaction to recent events in Washington, criticizing what he views as partisan behavior from Democrats while noting that John Fetterman stood out for showing independence and composure. Brown outlines a four-part test he believes should guide any presidential decision on military action, particularly regarding rising tensions with Iran, emphasizing both national security and measured restraint. On the economy, he argues conditions have improved but says healthcare costs, grocery prices, and federal regulations continue to burden families. Also joined by Bill Roggio from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies to discuss rising tensions in the Middle East and South Asia, Bill Roggio offers a sobering assessment of Iran and the broader regional landscape. He explains that Tehran is likely to stall in nuclear negotiations, drawing parallels to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action crafted under the Obama administration, and cautions that Iran has a history of stretching talks while advancing its interests. Listen here for all of this and more on The Brett Winterble Show! For more from Brett Winterble check out his YouTub See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Show recorded on February 23, 2026:  Mike opens the show noting the rising number of U.S. troops and aircraft near Iran. Fox's Josh Breslow interviews Ben Cohn of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, who warns a U.S. strike on Iran may be imminent. We go to a House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government's recent hearing about Sharia law and you may be shocked by the number of Muslims who believe the US should be governed by it: according to the September 2024 Heritage Foundation survey, 39% support Sharia law in the US and 46% support the formation of an Muslim political party. In Jewish Olympians news, Jack Hughes scores Team USA hockey's gold-medal goal with his brother Quinn Hughes, Emery Lehman takes silver, and Israel's bobsled team is disqualified. Thank you for listening, sharing and subscribing to the Third Opinion Podcast!

1896 PERSIAElizabeth Peak, columnist for The Hill and Fox News, discusses Wall Street's AI "doom" narrative, the disruption of white-collar professions, and market anxieties regarding potential conflict with Iran and new trade tariffs. 1.Elizabeth Peak, columnist for The Hill and Fox News, criticizes Mayor Mamdani's inexperienced handling of a deadly NYC blizzard, specifically his initial refusal to compel homeless individuals to enter shelters during extreme cold. 2.Judy Dempsey of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Thaddius McCotter of American Greatnessexamine the Ukraine war's stalemate, debating European unity, Putin's untrustworthiness, and the difficult search for a viable diplomatic peace offramp. 3.Judy Dempsey of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Thaddius McCotter of American Greatnessdiscuss the upcoming State of the Union, critiquing Trump's economic messaging while highlighting concerns over AI-driven job losses and the growing divide regarding national prosperity. 4.Mary Kissel, Executive Vice President at Stevens Incorporated, analyzes the US naval buildup near Iran, exploring potential regime change and the interconnected nature of global authoritarian threats from Russia to Beijing. 5.Mary Kissel, Executive Vice President at Stevens Incorporated, explains how unpredictable tariff policies create business uncertainty, hindering capital investment despite potential strategic benefits in managing trade relations with aggressive regimes like Beijing. 6.Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, discusses the massive USarmada near Iran and whether military pressure or internal protests can force the regime to negotiate on missiles and proxies. 7.Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, analyzes Hezbollah's remaining missile arsenal, Israeli deterrence strategies, and the security vacuum in Syria following the escape of ISISrelatives from detention camps. 8.David Livingston of The Space Show and Kishalay De of Columbia University discuss a star collapsing into a black hole without a supernova, challenging established theories about the minimum mass required for such cosmic events. 9.David Livingston of The Space Show and Kishalay De of Columbia University outline future astronomical surveys using advanced telescopes to identify more "disappearing" stars, aiming to create a comprehensive population road map for black hole formation. 10.Michael Toth, Research Director of the Civitas Institute, compares the thriving US equity markets with Europe's "eurosclerosis," attributing American growth to deregulation and dynamism while critiquing Europe's failure to produce new unicorns. 11.Michael Toth, Research Director of the Civitas Institute, defends financialization against critics, arguing that expanded market participation through 401ks and deregulation drives median income growth and American productivity compared to Europe. 12.Gregory Copley reports that amid a military buildup and failing talks, President Trump is considering kinetic action against Iran's clerical leadership, while the Iranian people remain largely anti-regime. 13.Gregory Copley reports that Prime Minister Starmer is blocking US use of British bases in Cyprus and Diego Garciafor Iran strikes, causing a terminal rift with President Donald Trump. 14.Gregory Copley reports that President Zelensky warns Putin is untrustworthy as the war reaches four years, while Copley suggests the conflict persists primarily because of continued external Western funding and arms. 15.Gregory Copley reports that King Charles is navigating a crisis involving Prince Andrew's arrest and Prime Minister Starmer's appointment of Ambassador Mendelson, both linked to the widening Jeffrey Epstein scandal. 16.

Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, discusses the massive USarmada near Iran and whether military pressure or internal protests can force the regime to negotiate on missiles and proxies. 7.1896 OMAN

Jonathan Schanzer, Executive Director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, analyzes Hezbollah's remaining missile arsenal, Israeli deterrence strategies, and the security vacuum in Syria following the escape of ISISrelatives from detention camps. 8.1896 PERSIA

Preview for later today. John Hardie and Bill Roggio of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies explain Vladimir Putin remains committed to making Ukraine a vassal state, rejecting land for peace deals while demanding demilitarization and the end of NATO aspirations.1855 CRIMEAN WAR

Preview for later today. Edmund Fitton Brown and Bill Roggio of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies report that while not fully defeated, Houthi forces were prevented from massing to capture Marib because US air power threatened to shred any concentrated military formations.1926 SA'NAA

The Supreme Court has blocked President Trump's use of an emergency law to impose sweeping tariffs on most U.S. trading partners. In a 6-3 decision, the court argued that Trump's use of IEEPA to control tariffs would expand executive power at the expense of the other branches of government. President Trump blasted the court saying they must have been influenced by foreign powers. FOX's Tonya J. Powers speaks with Elaine Dezenski, Director and Head of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies' Center on Economic and Financial Power, who says while this is a blow to the Trump Administration's economic policy, they have many other 'pathways to achieve their tariff strategy.' Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To Follow 'The FOX News Rundown: Evening Edition' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On The Power Vertical Podcast this week, host Brian Whitmore speaks with two veteran diplomats, former U.S. State Department official Donald Jensen, who is currently an an adjunct professor in the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences at Johns Hopkins University and an adjunct fellow at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies; and Osmolovska, a 15-year veteran of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry who now serves as the head of GLOBSEC's Kyiv office. They are the co-authors of an important, exhaustively researched, and very timely report, "Adversary at the Table: Negotiating with Putin's Russia," which was released this week by the Atlantic Council.

1917 EDGAR RICE BURROUGHS. MARS1.Liz Peek discusses the market's current drift and the continued dominance of Artificial Intelligence, arguing AI is not a bubble but a rapidly adopted technology transforming productivity, with companies underhiring as they assess impact and investors needing exposure to this dominant sector.2.Liz Peek critiques California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, citing California'sstruggles with homelessness, illegal immigration, and a wealth tax driving residents away, characterizing him as a catastrophe whose record undermines his viability.3.Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Mart dismiss Poland's reparation demands from Russia as political jostling, criticize Senator Rubio's visit to Hungary for bolstering Viktor Orbán, and note the Wagner Group's reported return to Europe as destabilizing.4.Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Mart identify a leadership void in Europe, noting weakness in Macron and Starmer, arguing Europe possesses treaty tools for defense but lacks political will, often blaming Donald Trump rather than addressing internal paralysis.5.Mary Kissel praises Secretary Rubio's Munich speech for emphasizing Western defense but notes he was softer on China than expected, arguing Europe only strengthens military commitments when shamed by the US or facing immediate threats.6.Mary Kissel analyzes the massive US naval deployment near Iran as a credible threat to force regime compliance, dismissing Iran's military drills in the Straits of Hormuz as feeble, suggesting the administration will use force if Tehran refuses dismantlement.7.Jonathan Schanzer of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analyzes Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's disingenuous peace efforts, discusses US demands for Iran's total nuclear dismantlement, and highlights strategic confusion regarding the Board of Peace and Hamas supporters' involvement.8.Jonathan Schanzer describes Syria as effectively a Turkish proxy state viewed with danger by the region, discussing President Trump's announcement of five billion dollars from the Board of Peace for Gaza while expressing skepticism about Turkey and Qatar's reconstruction roles.9.Joseph Sternberg of the Wall Street Journal discusses European leaders finally addressing the continent's economic dysfunction compared to the US, noting proposals for a twenty-eighth regime to simplify business laws while politicians like Meloni and Merz face challenges balancing welfare states with growth reforms.10.Joseph Sternberg analyzes Prime Minister Keir Starmer's crash and burn scenario despite a large parliamentary majority, weakened by scandals and party infighting, with survival relying on the lack of compelling alternatives while constant policy reversals leave his government unable to foster growth.11.Alejandro Peña Esclusa details his transition from businessman to Venezuela's first political prisoner as Hugo Chávez, aided by the São Paulo Forum, dismantled democracy, recounting cacerolazo pot-banging protests and how the regime systematically destroyed the economy and persecuted dissenters.12.Alejandro Peña Esclusa discusses the reported capture of Nicolás Maduro, described as a Cuban asset and drug cartel leader, noting Venezuelans are cautiously celebrating with open protests while threats remain from radical groups and international friction regarding the transition.13.Gregory Copley of Defense & Foreign Affairs discusses the US deployment of one hundred troops to Nigeria to counter ISIS and Boko Haram, arguing stability requires addressing economic disenfranchisement from damming the River Niger rather than treating symptoms with military advisors.14.Gregory Copley reports Nigerian President Tinubu advocates for an African credit rating agency to reduce reliance on external assessments from firms like Moody's, reflecting growing desire for statistical independence and better quantification of local economies to attract investment.15.Gregory Copley argues Europe suffers from a leadership vacuum caused by post-WWII dependency on the US and bureaucratic corrosion within the EU, with economic recovery requiring slashing regulations as current welfare models become unsustainable amidst geopolitical threats.16.Gregory Copley notes that despite scandals surrounding Prince Andrew, the Royal Family remains essential glue holding the UK and Commonwealth together, with the King and working royals performing vital diplomatic functions while spares struggle without defined roles.

Jonathan Schanzer of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies analyzes Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan's disingenuous peace efforts, discusses US demands for Iran's total nuclear dismantlement, and highlights strategic confusion regarding the Board of Peace and Hamas supporters' involvement.1900 BRUSSELS

PREVIEW: John Batchelor speaks with Edmund Fitton-Brown of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies regarding the ongoing tragedy in Iran. Fitton-Brown, a former UK ambassador to Yemen, discusses the regime's brutality and reports of hundreds of thousands dead or missing. The conversation critiques the US administration's approach, noting that while the president encouraged protesters with promises of support, that "rescue has been fatally delayed."1955