Podcasts about International Atomic Energy Agency

This week in the Middle East, Iran questioned cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and reportedly received a delivery of Chinese air defense systems, while Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz unveiled plans to relocate Gazans to third countries. In the Russia/Ukraine conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed frustration at Russia's lack of meaningful ceasefire efforts and renewed U.S. weapons shipments to Ukraine, while both the U.S. Congress and the EU are preparing new sanctions against Moscow. In the Indo-Pacific, Trump renewed his threats of tariffs against ASEAN countries, plus Japan and South Korea. He further threatened to levy additional tariffs against Brazil and on all copper exports to the U.S. and extended the deadline for all trade negotiations to Aug. 1. Read the full Weekly Forecast Monitor here: https://newlinesinstitute.org/forecast/week-20250711/ Marxist Arrow by Twin Musicom is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

On June 13th, Israel launched attacks on several military and nuclear facilities in Iran, marking the beginning of a 12-day war between the two countries. The United States followed with targeted strikes on Iranian nuclear sites to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power and posing a threat to regional and global stability. China's involvement in the conflict was limited to condemning the Israeli and US use of military force and calling for de-escalation. Beijing offered only rhetorical support for Tehran. To discuss what the Israel-Iran war reveals about China's relationship with Iran, its evolving strategy in the Middle East, and the broader implications for US-China competition, we are joined by Yun Sun on the podcast today. Yun is a Senior Fellow, co-Director of the East Asia Program and Director of the China Program at the Stimson Center. Her recent piece in The Wire China entitled “How China Sees Iran's Future” offers provides a nuanced take on Beijing's calculus during and after the war. Timestamps[00:00] Start[01:34] China's Diplomatic Strategy Toward the Middle East[05:00] A Limited Chinese Response and China's Regional Role[08:19] Chinese Perceptions of Iran's External Strategic Blunders[15:00] Trickling Chinese Investment into Iran[20:10] Chinese Concerns About a Nuclearized Iran[25:09] Implications of the Israel-Iran War for China's Energy Security[32:04] Trump's Response Shaping Chinese Views of the United States 

First, Tehran accused the International Atomic Energy Agency of being complicit in Israel's attacks on its nuclear sites. Now, the UN agency's pulled all its inspectors out of Iran. So, who will monitor its nuclear activities? And could this trigger another round of tension? In this episode: Abas Aslani, Senior Research Fellow, Center, Middle East Strategic Studies. Tariq Rauf, Former Head, Verification and Security Policy, International Atomic Energy Agency. Harlan Ullman, Senior Advisor, Atlantic Council. Host: Adrian Finighan Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

For review:1.  Syrian state media reported Wednesday that statements on signing a peace deal with Israel were “premature.”2.   The IDF carried out an airstrike Thursday in the Lebanese village of Sil, near Beirut, targeting an operative for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. According to the IDF, the target was involved in smuggling weapons and advancing terror plots, acting on behalf of the Quds Force, the IRGC's foreign arm.3.  Iran on Wednesday formally suspended its cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog- the International Atomic Energy Agency.  Following a parliament vote on the matter last week, the bill was approved by the Guardian Council, a body tasked with vetting legislation, before it received a final ratification from the presidency. 4. Axios Report: US & Iran to Resume Nuclear Talks in Oslo. There is not yet a final date for the talks in the Norwegian capital. Neither Washington nor Tehran has publicly confirmed the meeting.5. Hostage & Ceasefire Efforts Between Israel and Hamas Advancing.6.  US President Trump said on Thursday that a phone call earlier in the day with Russian President Putin resulted in no progress at all on efforts to end the war in Ukraine. 7. Pentagon Reviews US Military Support to Foreign Countries.  The Trump administration is pausing some weapons shipments to Ukraine, including air defense missiles, following a review of military spending and American support to foreign countries, a senior White House official told CNN. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed off on the review, which the official noted had been underway for months. 8.  The House has passed President Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill,” sending the bill with $150 billion for defense to the President's desk ahead of his 04 July deadline. 

In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin:  First—ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the White House next week, President Donald Trump says Israel has agreed to an updated proposal for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. But will Hamas finally accept the terms? We'll have the latest developments. Later in the show—as questions still linger regarding the status of Iran's nuclear facilities and enriched uranium stockpiles, the Islamic regime has announced it will indefinitely suspend any cooperation with the U.N.'s International Atomic Energy Agency. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief True Classic: Upgrade your wardrobe and save on @trueclassic at https://trueclassic.com/PDB#trueclassicpod TriTails Premium Beef: Celebrate with steak worth standing for. Get a free ribeye with the Freedom Box at https://Trybeef.com/PDB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LAURA ROCKWOOD: Retired Gen. Counsel for Vienna's International Atomic Energy Agency. Expert on Iranian nuclear capabilities.SummaryIn this conversation, Laura Rockwood, a former senior legal advisor at the IAEA, shares her extensive experience in nuclear nonproliferation, particularly in relation to Iran and Iraq. The discussion covers the complexities of negotiating in the Middle East, the challenges of verifying nuclear capabilities, and the impact of false intelligence on the Iraq War. Rockwood emphasizes the importance of diplomacy in addressing nuclear threats and the need for a collective approach to global stability. The conversation also touches on the moral implications of military actions against nuclear facilities and the role of leadership in shaping public sentiment and international relations.TakeawaysLaura Rockwood has over 40 years of experience in nuclear nonproliferation.Negotiating in the Middle East can be challenging, but gender does not hinder respect.The IAEA's role is to verify, not prevent, nuclear weapons development.False intelligence significantly impacted the justification for the Iraq War.Iran's nuclear program is complex and requires careful monitoring.Diplomacy is essential for resolving nuclear tensions and conflicts.Military actions against nuclear facilities raise moral and legal questions.The Non-Proliferation Treaty aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.Public sentiment can be influenced by leadership decisions and actions.Addressing root causes of instability is crucial for global peace.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setup01:06 The Aftermath of the Iraq War and Intelligence Failures02:29 Navigating Nuclear Inspections in Iraq04:56 The IAEA's Role and False Intelligence06:28 Technical Challenges and Communication Issues06:46 Revisiting Iraq: Inspections and Cooperation08:29 The U.S. Justification for War10:29 The Impact of Forgeries on Intelligence12:06 Understanding Enrichment and Transportation12:41 Historical Context of Iran's Nuclear Ambitions14:29 The Role of the JCPOA in Iran's Nuclear Strategy16:39 Diplomatic Solutions and Future Negotiations18:24 The Morality of Military Action20:33 The Global Nuclear Landscape22:20 The Influence of Domestic Politics on Foreign Policy24:20 The Threat of Non-State Actors26:31 The Future of Nuclear Proliferation28:22 The Role of the NPT and Global Governance30:23 The Impact of U.S. Foreign Policy on Global Stability32:38 The Complexity of International Relations34:28 The Role of Leadership in Nuclear Decisions36:18 The Importance of Diplomacy38:28 The Human Cost of War40:24 The Technical Aspects of Nuclear Weapons42:25 The Future of U.S.-Iran Relations44:22 The Role of Public Perception in Policy46:19 The Intersection of Politics and Nuclear Strategy48:11 The Human Element in Nuclear Proliferation50:16 The Legacy of Nuclear Weapons52:29 The Future of Global Security54:11 The Path Forward for Nuclear Non-ProliferationSound Bites"I have never felt disrespected by...""We reported that to the Security Council...""Iraq never reached that stage."

Chinese President Xi Jinping calls for consolidating a unified national market and high-quality development of the marine economy (01:07). The U.S. Senate has passed President Donald Trump's tax and spending bill (11:01). Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has approved Tehran's suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (19:49).

Lyse Doucet speaks to Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, about the future of Iran's nuclear programme and its government. The interview took place in the country's capital Tehran after Iran's twelve-day war with Israel. Both sides fired missiles into each other's territories, with hundreds killed as military sites were destroyed and civilian infrastructure badly damaged.Israel first attacked Iran on 13 June, claiming Iran was close to building a nuclear weapon. The conflict ended when the United States bombed three of Iran's nuclear sites.It is worth remembering, before any of the aggression started, talks about the future of Iran's nuclear programme were ongoing with the US. But they were overshadowed by a report from the International Atomic Energy Agency declaring Iran was in breach of its nuclear obligations and questioned why Iran was enriching uranium to such high levels.For now, there's a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Majid Takht-Ravanchi explains why he thinks it will hold and what it will take for diplomacy with the United States to resume in good faith. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds, Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.Presenter: Lyse Doucet Producers: Charlotte Scarr and Ben Cooper Sound: Dave O'Neill Editor: Nick HollandGet in touch with us on email TheInterview@bbc.co.uk and use the hashtag #TheInterviewBBC on social media.(Image: Majid Takht-Ravanchi. Credit: Safin Hamid/AFP via Getty Images)

The director general of the nucelar watchdog agency the International Atomic Energy Agency spoke with Margaret Brennan about the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Tehran's nuclear capabilities. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on America in the Morning Firemen Ambushed Residents of a Western Idaho town were ordered to shelter in place after a sniper opened fire on first responders arriving at the scene of a brush fire at a popular mountain recreation area.  America in the Morning's Jeff McKay reports that two firefighters were killed in what police are calling an ambush.   Budget Battle Republicans in the Senate hope that, by the end of the day today, they will have successfully voted to approve President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill before heading out on their now-delayed summer recess, but do they have the votes?  John Stolnis has the latest from Washington.   Diddy To The Jury The fate of disgraced music mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs will be handed to the jury with deliberations beginning this morning.  Correspondent Julie Walker reports.   IAEA On Iran Nuclear Sites As the impacts of recent strikes on Iranian nuclear sites by the United States continues to be assessed, the Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency says issues surrounding Iran's nuclear program cannot be solved militarily.  Correspondent Clayton Neville reports.   Trump Teases TikTok Buyer President Trump said on Sunday that he had a buyer for the U.S. branch of TikTok, the popular Chinese-owned video app that faces a ban over national security concerns.    100 Year-Old Priest He still performs daily mass, and for fun he bakes pies.  Correspondent Donna Warder reports on a 100-year-old priest still taking care of his parishioners in Philadelphia.     Tillis Won't Run For Relection A Republican Senator who was one of two budget bill no-votes over the weekend says he's had enough, and won't run for re-election.  Correspondent Clayton Neville reports.   US-Canada Trade Trouble The Trump administration continues to work on new trade agreements with countries around the world – but NOT with Canada.  The President shut down those talks thanks to a new Canadian tax that goes into effect today. Correspondent Rich Johnson explains.    Philadelphia Explosion An explosion and fire rocked Philadelphia, leveling several homes and killing one person.  Katie Clark has details.   Finally   It was a who's who of celebrities and the rich and famous that ascended on Venice, Italy for the star studded wedding of billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez.  Correspondent Julie Walker reports that while Venice city leaders were happy to play host, there were also protests. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Iran has the capacity to start enriching uranium again - for a possible bomb - in "a matter of months", Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has said. In an interview with CBS news, Mr Grossi also said the US strikes on three Iranian sites last weekend had caused severe but "not total" damage, contradicting President Trump's claim that Iran's nuclear facilities were "totally obliterated".Also on the programme: one of Hong Kong's last remaining pro-democracy groups, the League of Social Democrats, has announced that it will disband; and we hear from The Who's Pete Townsend about the ballet version of the group's Quadrophenia album and film.(Photo: IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi in Vienna, Austria on 25 June, 2025. Credit: REUTERS/Lisa Leutner)

The US and Israel attacked Iran saying it can't have a nuclear weapon while the Islamic Republic denies trying to build one. The two are among nine countries armed with such weapons. So, who decides who can have nuclear arms? And have the actions of Israel and the US increased the risks that more countries will want them? In this episode: Tariq Rauf, Former Head, Verification and Security Policy Coordination, International Atomic Energy Agency. Laicie Heeley, Nuclear Arms Control and Non-Proliferation Specialist. Tariq Ali, Editor, New Left Review. Host: Adrian Finighan Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 1: 3:05pm- On Tuesday night, far-left candidate Zohran Mamdani earned 43% of the Democratic primary vote, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo to win the party's New York City mayoral nomination. Incumbent NYC Mayor Eric Adams will challenge Mamdani as an Independent in November. Cuomo has also hinted that he is considering a general election campaign as an Independent. 3:30pm- On Thursday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Dan Caine held a press conference to address intelligence leaks—ultimately disputing the accuracy of a CNN report suggesting that Iranian nuclear development was only slowed by several months. According to the latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the centrifuges at Fordo are “no longer operational.” Following a Senate intelligence committee hearing, Sen. Lindsey Graham said he has seen enough information to determine that Iran's nuclear “operational capability was obliterated.”

The Rich Zeoli Show- Hour 3: 5:05pm- On Thursday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Dan Caine held a press conference to address intelligence leaks—ultimately disputing the accuracy of a CNN report suggesting that Iranian nuclear development was only slowed by several months. According to the latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the centrifuges at Fordo are “no longer operational.” Following a Senate intelligence committee hearing, Sen. Lindsey Graham said he has seen enough information to determine that Iran's nuclear “operational capability was obliterated.” 5:20pm- While appearing on Joe Rogan's podcast, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) was asked whether or not he intends to run for president in 2028—he didn't say “no,” though he did seem to suggest it was unlikely given his age. 5:30pm- Bill D'Agostino—Senior Research Analyst at Media Research Center—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to breakdown some of the best (and worst) clips from corporate media: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls out CNN reporter Natasha Bertrand for her false reports about U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, Nicolle Wallace feels “gutted” over the deportation of Tren de Aragua gang members, and the media blames everything on the “far-right.”

The Rich Zeoli Show- Full Episode (06/26/2025): 3:05pm- On Tuesday night, far-left candidate Zohran Mamdani earned 43% of the Democratic primary vote, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo to win the party's New York City mayoral nomination. Incumbent NYC Mayor Eric Adams will challenge Mamdani as an Independent in November. Cuomo has also hinted that he is considering a general election campaign as an Independent. 3:30pm- On Thursday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Dan Caine held a press conference to address intelligence leaks—ultimately disputing the accuracy of a CNN report suggesting that Iranian nuclear development was only slowed by several months. According to the latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the centrifuges at Fordo are “no longer operational.” Following a Senate intelligence committee hearing, Sen. Lindsey Graham said he has seen enough information to determine that Iran's nuclear “operational capability was obliterated.” 4:05pm- While appearing on NewsNation with Chris Cuomo, Rosie O'Donnell revealed that she suffered from depression following Donald Trump's election win—causing her to overeat and overdrink. PLUS: a morbidly obese man dressed in an orange Garfield shirt was dragged off a plane after he incessantly complained about not having enough room in his assigned seat. AND former Congressman Jamaal Bowman blames heart disease and diabetes on racism! 4:30pm- On Thursday, President Donald Trump delivered remarks from the White House—promoting the Republican Party's tax and spending legislation. 5:05pm- On Thursday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Dan Caine held a press conference to address intelligence leaks—ultimately disputing the accuracy of a CNN report suggesting that Iranian nuclear development was only slowed by several months. According to the latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the centrifuges at Fordo are “no longer operational.” Following a Senate intelligence committee hearing, Sen. Lindsey Graham said he has seen enough information to determine that Iran's nuclear “operational capability was obliterated.” 5:20pm- While appearing on Joe Rogan's podcast, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) was asked whether or not he intends to run for president in 2028—he didn't say “no,” though he did seem to suggest it was unlikely given his age. 5:30pm- Bill D'Agostino—Senior Research Analyst at Media Research Center—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to breakdown some of the best (and worst) clips from corporate media: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls out CNN reporter Natasha Bertrand for her false reports about U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, Nicolle Wallace feels “gutted” over the deportation of Tren de Aragua gang members, and the media blames everything on the “far-right.” 6:05pm- Dr. Wilfred Reilly—Professor of Political Science at Kentucky State University & Author of “Lies My Liberal Teacher Told Me”—joins The Rich Zeoli Show to discuss socialist Zohran Mamdani winning the New York City mayoral Democratic primary. On Thursday, rapper 50-Cent hilariously offered Mamdani $258,000 to drop out of the race and leave the city! Plus, what is “Alligator Alcatraz”? 6:40pm- According to a report from The New York Post, New York City Mayor Eric Adams (D) is open to running for re-election as a Republican if Curtis Sliwa is willing to withdraw from the race.

“The word ‘obliteration' is being used a lot…I think there's a little more nuance to it.” Intelligence assessments from the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran, and the United States have provided competing accounts of the functionality of Fordow, Iran's critical uranium refinement site, and the Iranian nuclear program as a whole. The intelligence community still has a lot of blanks to fill in, including the extent of the damage to various Iranian nuclear sites, the state of Iran's missile arsenal, and how much of a setback this represents for Iran's nuclear program. CSIS's Heather Williams, director of the CSIS Project on Nuclear Issues, joins the podcast to discuss the uncertain status of Iran's nuclear program following Operation Midnight Hammer and what we should be watching for next.

On Saturday evening, President Trump ordered strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, obliterating their target. Since then, Americans have wondered whether Iran will rebuild its nuclear program. International Atomic Energy Agency Director Rafael Grossi examines the damage caused to Iran's facilities and whether they will continue to strive for a nuclear bomb. Rafael highlights the importance of the International Atomic Energy Agency as they continue their work to account for all nuclear materials in Iran and ensure global transparency. He explains why the I.A.E.A. must return to the Iranian facilities to assess the damage and determine the results of the U.S. attacks.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Iran's parliament has approved a bill to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

At the Summer Davos forum, Chinese Premier Li Qiang says the country will continue to foster a first-class business environment (01:02). The Iranian parliament approves a bill to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (09:26). NATO is holding its annual summit in the Netherlands (24:13).

Israel lifts emergency measures following a ceasefire with Iran while the Iranian parliament passes a bill to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Gaza officials say at least 54 Palestinians were killed while waiting for aid. NATO leaders are set to endorse a higher defense funding goal of five percent of GDP at their annual summit.

Today on America in the Morning Israel-Iran Ceasefire President Trump announced a ceasefire between what he called the 12-Day War between Israel and Iran.  However, as John Stolnis reports from Washington, Iran carried out a missile attack on the US base in Qatar before the announced ceasefire, air raid sirens wailed in Israel after the announcement, and Iran says they will only stop if Israel ends the fighting.   Nation's Heatwave The first major heatwave of summer is baking the Midwest and East Coast of the US, with major cities including New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington DC seeing 100 degree temperatures, and a total of 28 states contend with a heatwave. SCOTUS OK's Trump Deportation Plan The Supreme Court on Monday granted the Trump administration's request to suspend a lower court injunction blocking them from deporting individuals to third countries without prior notice.  Correspondent Haya Panjwani reports it's a big win for President Trump to quickly enforce its immigration policies.    Nuclear New York They haven't built a nuclear power plant in New York in a generation.  Correspondent Julie Walker reports the Empire State's governor wants to build a nuclear facility that could power one million homes.   Primary Day In NYC More than a dozen Democrat candidates are on the ballot to become the next mayor of New York City, with the primary today and a ranked-choice voting system along voters to rank up to 5 candidates.    Fixing Florida's Condo Crisis With increased assessments and ballooning fees, Florida has been facing a condo crisis for the past two years.  However, as correspondent Lisa Dwyer reports, a new bill signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis will give condo associations more flexibility, and condo owners more time to deal with costly repair bills.      Latest In The Middle East President Trump announced that Israel and Iran have agreed to a phased-in ceasefire, which came within hours of an Iranian missile salvo against a US base in Qatar, an attack that happened after Qatar's government was notified of in advance by Iran, and thwarted by missile defense systems.  Correspondent Haya Panjwani reports . Iran's Missile Attack On Qatar The Israel-Iran ceasefire comes after Iran fired six to 10 short-range missiles at a US base in Qatar, the same number of missiles equal to the number of bunker-busting bombs dropped by US forces against Iranian nuclear facilities.  Ed Donahue reports on the initial reaction to the missiles fired at Qatar, and reaction by Democrats who believe the president should have sought congressional support for the use of military force against Iran.   IAEA's Response To US Attack On Iran In the aftermath of the American military action against Iran, the International Atomic Energy Agency says U.S. strikes on a major Iran nuclear plant were highly effective.  Correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the European Union, which continues to deal with the situation in Ukraine, have a vested interest in the latest developments in the Middle East and Iran.   Abbott Vetoes Texas THC Ban A veto by the Governor of Texas is sparking further debate over T-H-C in the Lone Star State.  Correspondent Clayton Neville reports.   Fixing Health Claims A new day appears on the horizon in navigating the tricky and often confusing process of filing health insurance claims for millions of Americans.  Correspondent Bob Brown has details.   Abortions Increase Even though more states tightened abortion restrictions, a new report shows the number of abortions has increased.  Lisa Dwyer reports.   Finally   More is being learned about the man who attempted to open fire at a church service in Michigan over the weekend.  Correspondent Julie Walker reports the man, who was stopped by church parishioners, was the troubled son of a woman who attended services in the town of Wayne. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Both Russia and China are well-positioned to lead global efforts through multilateral institutions such as the UN and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the International Atomic Energy Agency says U.S. strikes on a major Iran nuclear plant were highly effective.

The United Nations Security Council and International Atomic Energy Agency are calling for diplomacy after the US joined Israel's assault on Iran. Iran has vowed to respond and says it has the right to defend itself in the face of aggression, warning there will be irreparable consequences following the strikes.

Donald Trump says the US bombing attacks he ordered have totally obliterated Iran's key nuclear sites. And he's threatening more strikes if Tehran doesn't return to diplomacy. But what if it decides not to? And what are the risks of a regional spillover? In this episode: Zohreh Kharazmi, Assistant Professor, Faculty of World Studies, University of Tehran. Tariq Rauf, Former Head, Verification and Security Policy Coordination Office, International Atomic Energy Agency. Matthew Bryza, Former National Security Council Official, The White House. Host: Imran Khan Connect with us:@AJEPodcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

THE WAR between Israel and Iran is just over a week old—but not really. This is a continuation of what began October 7, 2023, which in turn is a continuation of a low-grade conflict that's gone on for decades. Iran was the primary source of financial, technical, and military support for Hezbollah and Hamas, which have been responsible for attacks inside Israel since the 1980s in the case of Hezbollah, and since the mid-2000s in the case of Hamas. The attack on October 7, 2023 was the final straw for the conservative government in Israel, which is determined to put an end to the threat to its citizens. Was Iran close to developing a nuclear weapon? No one has said so publicly, although the Israeli government and conservative talk show hosts in the US have made that claim for more than 20 years. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency recently assessed that Iran had enough uranium refined to 60% purity to produce ten weapons (note: 90% purity is required) and that Iran was preventing IAEA inspectors from accessing areas they needed to see. Not surprisingly, media accounts of the IAEA report ranged from “Iran close to developing nuclear weapons” to “No evidence Iran is developing nuclear weapons.” At the end of the day, the theocratic government of Iran, run by men in their 70s and 80s who may see this as their last, best chance to see the Mahdi in the flesh, cannot be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, and—sadly—their religious worldview prevents them from reaching a negotiated settlement. For a good overview of Islamic history, theology, and eschatology, we recommend the work of scholars Raymond Ibrahim and Dr. Timothy Furnish, both of whom Derek cited in his book Bad Moon Rising. Also: We revisit Roko's Basilisk, a thought experiment that highlights the danger of autonomous artificial super-intelligence. Our new book The Gates of Hell is now available in paperback, Kindle, and as an audiobook at Audible! Derek's new book Destination: Earth, co-authored with Donna Howell and Allie Anderson, is now available in paperback, Kindle, and as an audiobook at Audible! Sharon's niece, Sarah Sachleben, was recently diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer, and the medical bills are piling up. If you are led to help, please go to GilbertHouse.org/hopeforsarah. Follow us! X (formerly Twitter): @pidradio | @sharonkgilbert | @derekgilbert | @gilberthouse_tvTelegram: t.me/gilberthouse | t.me/sharonsroom | t.me/viewfromthebunkerSubstack: gilberthouse.substack.comYouTube: @GilbertHouse | @UnravelingRevelationFacebook.com/pidradio —————— JOIN US AND SPECIAL GUEST CARL TEICHRIB IN ISRAEL! We will tour the Holy Land October 19–30, 2025, with an optional three-day extension in Jordan. For more information, log on to GilbertHouse.org/travel. Thank you for making our Build Barn Better project a reality! Our 1,200 square foot pole barn has a new HVAC system, epoxy floor, 100-amp electric service, new windows, insulation, lights, and ceiling fans! If you are so led, you can help out by clicking here: gilberthouse.org/donate. Get our free app! It connects you to this podcast, our weekly Bible studies, and our weekly video programs Unraveling Revelation and A View from the Bunker. The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, and Apple TV. Links to the app stores are at pidradio.com/app. Video on demand of our best teachings! Stream presentations and teachings based on our research at our new video on demand site: gilberthouse.org/video! Think better, feel better! Our partners at Simply Clean Foods offer freeze-dried, 100% GMO-free food and delicious, vacuum-packed fair trade coffee from Honduras. Find out more at GilbertHouse.org/store/.

President Donald Trump says two more weeks he is waiting to decide to whether to attack Iran over its nuclear weapons program is “a time to see whether or not people come to their senses"; United Nations Ambassadors from Iran and Israel trade accusations at a UN Security Council meeting as their countries continue their military campaigns against each other; head of the International Atomic Energy Agency warns the Security Council of the dangers of a military campaign targeting nuclear facilities; federal appeals court in California rules President Trump likely had the authority to deploy National Guard troops to deal with protests against immigration raids without Gov. Newsom's consent but the courts do have a role in reviewing the specific actions the troops will be doing; Federal Reserve board member thinks interest rates should be cut as early as next month; Supreme Court releases decisions, including one allowing a lawsuit from fuel producers against California vehicle emissions standards to continue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's HeadlinesNuclear threat runs under Iran and Israel's conflictSchool for refugees closes as Syrian families prepare to go homeChange leads to challenge in Tunisia

As Israel bombs Iranian nuclear sites under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspection, questions mount over nuclear double standards and the credibility of the global system. Iran accuses the IAEA of bias and complicity, while Israel - an undeclared nuclear power - remains outside treaty obligations. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi responds to allegations, addresses fears of a nuclear arms race and warns of the consequences if diplomacy fails. Is the non-proliferation regime collapsing? Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, talks to Al Jazeera.

Since Israel launched Operation Rising Lion—a precise and defensive military campaign aimed at preventing the Iranian regime from acquiring nuclear weapons—Iran has responded with a barrage of ballistic missiles and drones, indiscriminately targeting Israeli civilians. Dr. Matthew Levitt, director of the Reinhard Program on Counterterrorism and Intelligence at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, and a leading expert on Iran's global terror network, explains what's at stake—and what could come next. Take Action: We must stop a regime that vows to murder millions of Israelis from gaining the weapons to do it. Urge your elected leaders to assure that Israel has all the necessary support to end Iran's nuclear threat. Resources and Analysis: Iranian Regime vs. Israel War Explained: What You Should Know AJC Advocacy Anywhere: Israel and Iran: Latest Updates, Global Responses, and the Path Ahead 5 Key Reasons Behind Israel's Defensive Strike on Iran's Imminent Nuclear Threat Listen – AJC Podcasts: The Forgotten Exodus: Untold stories of Jews who left or were driven from Arab nations and Iran People of the Pod: Latest Episodes: Why Israel Had No Choice: Inside the Defensive Strike That Shook Iran's Nuclear Program What Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks' State of the Jewish World Teaches Us Today Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at AJC.org/PeopleofthePod You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you've appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Transcript of the Interview: Israel's shadow war with the Iranian regime, the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism, erupted into open conflict last week following a stunning report from the International Atomic Energy Agency that confirmed Iran was much closer to obtaining nuclear weapons than previously known. Since Israel launched a wave of attacks on nuclear sites and facilities, Iran has fired missiles toward Israel's most populated cities. Joining us to discuss what this all means is one of the foremost experts on Iran and its global threats, and a regular guest when trouble arises with Iran. Dr. Matthew Levitt, director of the Reinhard Counterterrorism Program at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.  Matt, welcome back to People of the Pod. Matthew Levitt:   It's a pleasure to be back, but I need to come sometime when the world's okay.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   That would be nice. That'd be nice. But what will we talk about? Matthew Levitt:   Yeah, just call me one of the Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, you are one of the foremost experts on the dangers posed by Iran, especially its terror proxies. And you've written the definitive book on Hezbollah, titled Hezbollah: the Global Footprint of Lebanon's Party of God. And I say that whole title, I want to get in there, because we are talking about global threats here.  Can you explain the scale of Iran's global threat and the critical role that its terror proxies, like Hezbollah, Hamas, the Houthis, play in advancing that strategy? Matthew Levitt:   So I really appreciate the question, because it's really important to remind listeners that the Israel Iran war did not start Thursday night US time, Friday morning, Israel time. In fact, it's just the latest salvo where the Israelis, after years and years and years of Iranian we call it malign activity, but that's too soft a term. We're talking about Iran sending weapons and funds to proxies like Hamas to carry out October 7, like Hezbollah to fire rockets at Israel almost daily for almost a year. Like the Houthis, who were much more than a thorn in the Saudi backside until the Iranians came and gave them more sophisticated capabilities.  We're talking about an Iran that a few years ago decided that instead of making sure that every gun that it sent to the West Bank had to go to Hamas or Islamic Jihad. They decided to just flood the West Bank with guns. Who cares who's shooting at the Israelis so long as somebody is. And an Iran that not only carries out human rights abuses of all kinds at home, but that threatens Israel and its neighbors with drones, low altitude cruise missiles, short range ballistic missiles, and medium and long range ballistic missiles.  And so the totality of this, much like the totality of Hezbollah's striking Israel for almost a year, ultimately led Israel to do what most people thought couldn't be done, and just tear Hezbollah apart, that the Israel war on Hezbollah is the prequel to what we've been seeing over the past few days in Iran. Similarly, for the Israelis, it got to be too much. It wasn't even really that President Trump's 60 days expired and Israel attacked on day 61. It wasn't only that the IAEA came out with a report saying that the Iranians have refused to explain certain activities that can only be explained as nuclear weaponization activities.  It was that the Israelis had information that two things were happening. One, that Iran was working very, very hard to rebuild its capability to manufacture medium, long range ballistic missiles that can hit Israel. After the Israeli reprisal attack last October took out a key component of that program, the mixers that are important for the solid propellant, without which you can't make ballistic missiles. And Iran is believed to have, at least the beginning of this recent round of the conflict –Thursday, Friday–about 2000 such missiles. Far fewer now, the Israelis say they've taken out about a third of them, plus launchers, plus radars, et cetera. But that Iran had a plan within just a few years to develop as many as 8000 of these. And that simply was not tolerable for the Israelis.  And the second is that the Israelis say that they compiled evidence that Iran had a secret, secret nuclear weapons program that had been going on predating October 7, but was fast tracked after October 7, that they were planning to maintain this program, even as they were negotiating over the more overt program with the Trump administration. President Trump has even taken issue with his own Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who testified in March that the US intelligence committee does not assess that Iran is weaponizing. And President says, I don't care what she says, I think they were very close to weaponizing.  The Israelis say they have shared this information at least recently with their US counterparts and that was not tolerable. So the primary goals that Israel has set out for itself with this campaign is beyond the critically important shattering the glass ceiling. Think where people in particular, in Iran thought this would never happen, was two things, one, addressing and significantly degrading and setting back the Iranian ballistic missile production program, and second, doing the same to the nuclear program. They've already carried out strikes at Isfahan, Natanz, even at the upper parts of Fordow. And there is an expectation that the Israelis are going to do something more. The Israeli national security advisor said on Israeli television today, We are not going to stop without addressing the nuclear activities at Fordow. Manya Brachear Pashman:   You know, you called it a prequel, Israel's operations against Hezbollah last year. Did you know that it was a prequel at the time and to what extent did it weaken Iran and leave it more vulnerable in this particular war? Matthew Levitt:   I'm going to be the last person in Washington, D.C. who tells you when he doesn't know. And anybody who tells you they did know is lying to you. None of us saw what Israel did to Hezbollah coming. None of us saw that and said, Oh, they did it to a non-state actor right across their border. So they'll definitely be able to do it to Iran, 1000+ kilometers away, big nation state with massive arsenals and a nuclear program and lots of proxies. One plus one does not equal three in this.  In other words, the fact that Israel developed mind boggling capabilities and incredible intelligence, dominance and then special tools, pagers and walkie talkies, in the case of Hezbollah, did not mean that they were going to be able to do the same vis a vis Iran. And they did. The same type of intelligence dominance, the same type of intelligence, knowing where somebody was at a certain time, that the protocols would be that certain leaders would get in a certain secret bunker once hostilities started, and they'd be able to take them out in that bunker. As they did to a bunch of senior Hezbollah commanders just months ago. Drone operations from within Iran, Iran being hit with missiles that were fired at Iran from within Iran, all of it. One case did not necessarily translate into the other. It is exponentially impressive. And Israel's enemies have to be saying, you know, that the Israelis are just all capable. Now you're absolutely right. You hit the nail on the head on one critical issue. For a very long time, Israel was at least somewhat deterred, I would say very deterred, from targeting Iran. Because Iran had made very, very clear if Israel or the United States or anybody else targeted Iran or its nuclear program, one of the first things that would happen would be that Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel, Iran's first, most important proxy would rain hellfire in Israel in the form of 1000s upon 1000s of rockets. Until Israel addressed the problem, Hezbollah is believed to have had 150 to 200,000 different types of projectiles, up to and including precision guided munitions.  Not only have the overwhelming majority of those been destroyed, Hezbollah still has 1000s of rockets, but Hezbollah leadership has been decimated. There's a new sheriff in town in Lebanon. There's a new government that immediately, when hostility started with Iran's, went to Hezbollah and said, You're not doing this, not dragging Lebanon back into a war that nobody wanted again. We are finally coming out of this economic crisis. And so Iran was faced with a situation where it didn't have Hezbollah to deter Israel.  Israel, you know, paved the way for a highway in the air to Iran, taking out air defense systems. It was able to fly over and through Syria. The Syrians are not shedding any tears as they see the Quds Force and the IRGC getting beaten down after what Iran did in Syria. And the Israelis have air dominance now. President Trump said, We, using the we term, air dominance now, earlier today. And they're able to slowly and methodically continue to target the ballistic missile program. Primarily, the medium and long range missiles that target Israel, but sometimes it's the same production lines that produce the short range missiles that Iran uses to target U.S. Forces in the region, and our allies in the Gulf. So Israel is not just protecting itself, it's protecting the region. And then also taking out key military security intelligence personnel, sometimes taking out one person, then a couple days later, taking out the person who succeeded that person, and then also taking out key scientists who had the know-how to potentially rebuild all the things that Israel is now destroying. Manya Brachear Pashman:   But Israel is also not hearing from the Houthis, is not hearing from Hamas. It's not hearing from other terror proxies either. Very few attacks from Iran's terror proxies in the aftermath of this wave. Why? Why do you think that is? Matthew Levitt:   The crickets are loud. The crickets are loud. Look, we've discussed Hezbollah. Hezbollah understands that if it were to do something, the Israelis will come in even harder and destroy what's left. Hamas is still holding hostages. This is still an open wound, but it doesn't have the capabilities that it once had, and so there have been a couple of short range things that they tried to shoot, but it's not anything that's going to do huge damage, and the Israeli systems can deal with those.  The Houthis did fire something, and it hurt some Palestinians near Hebron. You know, the Houthis and the Iranians in particular, in this conflict have killed Palestinians, and in one case, Syrians. They're continuing to hurt people that are not Israelis. One of the things that I think people are hopeful for is that as Iran tries to sue for peace, and it already is, it's been reaching out to Cyprus to pass messages, etcetera. The hope is that Iran will recognize that it's in a position whereby A) there has to be zero enrichment and the facilities have to be destroyed, whatever's left of them. And B) there's a hope that Israel and the United States together will be able to use this diplomatic moment to truly end the conflict in Gaza and get the hostages home. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, that was what I was going to ask. I mean, if Israel achieves its objectives in this war, primarily eliminating Iran's nuclear threat, how significant a setback would that be for Hamas and Iran's other terror proxies, and could it indeed pave the way for an end of the war in Gaza and the return of the hostages? Matthew Levitt:   Like everybody else, I'm so scarred, I don't want to get my hopes up, but I do see this as a distinct possibility, and here's why. Not Hezbollah, not the Houthis, not Hamas, none of them, and plenty of other proxies that don't start in the letter H, none of them could have been anywhere as capable as they've proven to be, were it not for Iranian money and weapons. Also some training, some intelligence, but primarily money and weapons.  And so Hamas is already on its back foot in this regard. It can still get some money in. It's still being able to make money off of humanitarian aid. Iran is still sending money in through money exchange houses and hawaladars, but not weapons. Their ability to manufacture weapons, their military industrial complex within Gaza, this is destroyed. Hezbollah, we've discussed, discussed, and a lot of their capabilities have been destroyed. And those that remain are largely deterred. The Houthis did shoot up some rockets, and the Israelis did carry out one significant retaliatory attack. But I think people are beginning to see the writing on the wall. The Israelis are kicking the stuffing out of Iran with pinprick attacks that are targeting the worst of the bad guys, including people who have carried out some of the worst human rights transgressions against Iranians. Let's not pretend that this is not affecting the average Iranian. It is. The president says, Everybody get out of Tehran. That's just not possible. People, average Iranians, good people. It must be just an absolute terror.  But Israel's not bombing, you know, apartment buildings, as Iran is doing in Israel, or as Russia is doing in Ukraine. And so it really is a different type of thing. And when the Houthis, when Hamas, when Hezbollah, look at this, you don't you don't poke the tiger when it's angry. I think they also understand now's the time to get into survival mode. What you want is for the regime in Iran not to be destroyed. This is no longer a moment, as it's been since long before October 7, but certainly since then, of how Iran as proxies, export Iran's revolution. This is now a question of how they maintain and preserve the revolution at home. And it's extremely important to the proxies that Iran remain, so that even if it's knocked down over time, hopefully, theoretically, from their perspective, it can regain its footing. It will still have, they hope, its oil and gas, etcetera, and they will get back to a point where they can continue to fund and arm the proxies in. Maybe even prioritize them as it takes them longer to rebuild their ballistic missile, drone, and nuclear programs. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Which is a scary prospect as well to know that terror proxies could be spread throughout the world and empowered even a little bit more. President Trump left the G7 summit a day early to meet with security advisors, and just a few hours ago, prior to this interview, President Trump called for Iran's, quote, unconditional surrender, saying that the US knows where the Supreme Leader is, and some other threatening language. But I mean, this appears to be a kind of a clear commitment to Israel. So I'm curious how you assess his administration's actions before and during the war thus far, and do you see the United States edging toward direct involvement? Matthew Levitt:   All politics is local, and there is a tug of war within the MAGA movement over whether or not the US should be getting involved. Not only in supporting an important ally, but in removing a critical threat. The President is clearly frustrated that Iran was not being more forthcoming in the negotiations. He said many times, we'd offered you a great deal, you should have taken the deal. He's very aware that his deadline ended, and they didn't particularly seem to care. There's also the background that once upon a time, they tried to assassinate him, I think, after the Israelis did what they did, the President appreciates capabilities. He appreciates success. He likes backing the winning horse. And so the New York Times is reporting that after getting off the phone with Prime Minister Netanyahu, President Trump reportedly turned to some aides and said, maybe we need to help him. Now it's not clear that's what's going to happen, and my understanding is that the Israelis have plans of their own for things like the heavily fortified facility at Fordow, which is the most important and highly fortified, protected of the nuclear installations. The Israeli National Security Advisor spoke today and said, you know, we're not going to be done until we do something with Fordow.  The United States can do multiple things only the United States has the MOP: the Massive Ordinance Penetrator, and the airplanes to deliver it, and they could end Fordow if they wanted. Short of that, they could do other things to support Israel. There's been defensive support for the State of Israel already, but there's other things they could do, refueling and other things if they wanted to. And at a minimum, I don't see the president restraining Israel at all. Now, I've heard some people say that so far, the President has fired nothing more than some social media postings, some of them even in all caps.  But the truth is, those do have an effect, and so long as Israel is not restrained. I think the Israelis went into this with a plan. That plan is not necessarily to entirely destroy the entire nuclear program, but if the ballistic missile program and the nuclear program are sufficiently degraded so that it will take them years and a tremendous amount of time and money to rebuild, knowing that Israel has broken the glass ceiling on this idea of targeting Iran, that if the Israelis feel they need to, they will come back. If the Iranians rebuild their air defense systems, the Israelis will address them and create a new highway going if they need to. I think the Israelis are making that clear. Knowing that it's going to be a little bit of a road for Iran, especially when it will have to deal with some domestic issues coming out of this.  Finally, the Israelis have started signaling there's other things they could do. The Israelis have not yet fully targeted oil and gas fields and facilities. For example, they had one set of attacks where they basically knocked at the front door of some of these facilities without walking in the house. That's signaling, and I think it's one of the reasons you're seeing Iran quietly trying to reach out for some type of a ceasefire. Other signaling, for example, is the Israelis deciding to fly all the way to Mashhad, which is in far eastern Iran, to take out an airplane. That airplane was not particularly important. It was the message. There is nowhere in Iran we can't go. It's not a question of distance, it's not a question of refueling, it's not a question of air defense systems. We can do what we need to do. And I think the Iranians understand that now. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So we talked about the commitment to Israel, and how clear, how important it is to clarify that commitment to Israel. How important is it to clarify the United States commitment to Arab partners in the Middle East to help defend them in other words, if this conflict escalates? Matthew Levitt:   This is critically important. You know, one of the individuals who was taken out, for example, was the person who was in charge of the drone attack on the Abqaiq oil facility in Saudi Arabia. If you look, for example, at the Saudi statement condemning the Israeli actions, it was issued by the Foreign Ministry without a single name attached to it. Wasn't issued by the Crown Prince, wasn't issued by the foreign minister. So I think you should expect a whole lot of public criticism. I imagine there's a different conversation going on behind closed doors. It's not necessarily, you know, pom-poming. This makes the Gulf states very, very nervous, in part because they understand that one way Iran could try and get out of this is to expand the conflict.  And that the reason they haven't is because, short of trying to prevent Iranians from taking to the streets and potentially doing something to maybe overthrow the regime, short of that, the number one thing that the Iranian regime is most desperate to avoid is getting the United States involved militarily. And I think the Iranians really understand and the messaging's been clear. If you target US Forces in the region, if you target our allies in the region, we'll get involved. If you don't, then we might not.  Now the President now is talking about potentially doing that, and as a lot of maybe this, maybe that, nothing very clear. I think what is clear is that the Israelis are going to continue doing what they need to do for another one to two weeks. Even going so far as doing something, though they haven't made clear what to address the really complicated problem of the fortified facility at Fordow. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So how important is it for global security if Israel is successful in eliminating the nuclear threat in Iran? Matthew Levitt:   Look, Iran has been the single most destabilizing factor in the region for a long time now. Imagine a region without a destabilizing revolutionary regime in Iran without a regime that is supporting Shia militants in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries.  Imagine the Shia militias in Iraq suddenly without a funder and a patron, enabling the Shia government in Iraq to actually be able to take control of the country and establish a monopoly over the use of force. At a time when the Shia militias, because of Iran's backing, are becoming more dangerous and more powerful in Iraq.  Imagine the Lebanese government being able to be more forward leaning in their effort to establish a monopoly over the use of force in that country, reclaim bases that Hezbollah has used for all this time, and establish a new Lebanon that is not beholden to Iran and Hezbollah.  And imagine an Israeli-Palestinian situation where you didn't have Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad as spoilers. Recall that October 7 happened in large part because Hamas and Hezbollah and Iran could not tolerate the prospect of Israeli-Saudi normalization. For most Palestinians, this was great news. The Saudis were demanding real dividends for the Palestinians from the Netanyahu government, which was likely going to do them. This was great for Palestinians, bad for Hamas.  Imagine Hamas no longer getting that support from Iran. Imagine Iran no longer able to send or being interested in sending millions upon millions of dollars to its proxies, and instead spending what money it has on helping its population, instead of cracking down on it with human rights violations. You could have a very, very different region, let alone imagine Iran no longer carrying out acts of terrorism, kidnapping plots, abduction plots of dissidents and Jews and Israelis and others around the world of the type that we've seen throughout Europe and throughout the Middle East and even in the United States over the past few years. Manya Brachear Pashman:   That's quite an imagination you have. But I take your point. Let me ask you this then. Did you ever imagine that Israel would take this dramatic step?  Matthew Levitt:   What the Israelis have achieved, when you are so against the wall and you're forced to come up with solutions, because it's a matter of life or death – you make the impossible possible. And I think that perhaps the Iranians assumed that the Israeli post-October 7 doctrine applied to non-state actors only. And that doctrine is very simple. Israel will no longer allow adversaries who are openly committed to its destruction to build up weapons, arsenals that they can then use at some point to actually try and destroy Israel. They will not allow that to happen.  They allowed it to happen with Hamas. It was a mistake. They allowed it to happen with Hezbollah. It was a mistake that they corrected. And Iran is the biggest, arguably, really, the only existential threat as huge, as a tasking as that was, clearly they invested in doing it. And the question became, not, why can't it be done? What is it that has to be overcome? And I don't think sitting here with you right now, you know, what is it, 3:30 on Tuesday, the 17th, that we've seen the last of the tricks up Israel's sleeve.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   I only have one last question for you, and that is about the United States. The importance of the United States getting directly involved. I mean, we've talked about previously undisclosed nuclear sites, and who knows how many there could be. We're talking about more than what, 600,000 square miles of Iran. If the goal is a non nuclear Iran, can Israel finish this war without the United States, or does it even matter? I mean, is this just a step to force Iran back to the negotiating table with virtually zero leverage? Matthew Levitt:   So look, I don't think the goal here is completely destroying the Iranian nuclear program, or even completely destroying the Iranian ballistic missile program. The goal is to so degrade it that it is set back many, many years, and break that ceiling. People now understand if Israelis need to come back, they're coming back. I think they would like to do as much damage to these destructive programs as possible, of course, and I don't think we've seen the end of it. I think there are more tricks up Israel's sleeve when it comes to some of these complicated problems.  Judged by this yardstick, by the way, the Israeli operation is a tremendous success, tremendous success, even though there have been some significant casualties back in Israel, and even though this has caused tremendous trauma for innocent Iranians who have no love for the regime. This is a situation that the Iranian regime has brought down on all of us.  I do think that the Israelis have made very, very clear that this doesn't end until something is done to further disrupt and dismantle Fordow, which is the most important and the most heavily fortified, underground, under a mountain facility. It's not clear what the Israelis have in mind. It seems they have something in mind of their own. It's clear they would love for the United States to get involved, because the United States could do real damage to that facility and potentially end the Iranian nuclear program. But at the end of the day, if it can't be completely destroyed, I anticipate it's going to be damaged enough to significantly set it back. This phase of the Israel-Iran war, which didn't start last week, is not about pushing them back a week or a month or two months. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, Matt, thank you so much for your wise counsel and perspective on this matter, and yes, hopefully we can have you back another time to talk about peace and love and things that have nothing to do with war and conflict with Iran or its terror proxies. Matthew Levitt:   I would really look forward to prepping for that interview. In the meantime, I want to thank AJC for all the important work it does, and thank you guys for having me on the podcast. Manya Brachear Pashman:   If you missed last week's episodes, be sure to tune in for our crossover episode with Books and Beyond: The Rabbi Sacks Podcast, a podcast of the Rabbi Sacks Legacy, and my conversation with AJC's Jerusalem Director Avital Liebovich. During a special breaking news episode the day after Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, the latest in Israel's ongoing war of self-defense against the Iranian regime.  

President Trump took to social media to warn Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei that he's an "easy target" and calling for unconditional surrender, adding to the fears of Iranians who are desperately trying to leave the capital since Trump told all 10 million to "immediately evacuate." Just before Israel launched its massive attacks, the International Atomic Energy Agency declared Iran in breach of its non-proliferation agreements for the first time in 20 years. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi joins Christiane from Vienna.  Also on today's show: Jon Finer, Former US Principal Deputy National Security Advisor; DNC Chair Ken Martin  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's Tuesday, June 17th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson and Adam McManus North Korean Christian, arrested in 2007, has disappeared International Christian Concern remembers another persecuted saint today among those who have disappeared into the hands of a tyrannical state.  Kim Sung-sik of North Korea, who was arrested at the age of 49 in 2007 at his home, was remembered for distributing Bibles and for handing out gifts to needy folks. A North Korean defector described this man of God as having “character like steel.” He never bowed to anyone, and would even confront public officers for accepting bribes. His grandfather was a Presbyterian minister who had been persecuted and imprisoned by the Communist regime. Sung-Sik's wife and children, who were also arrested, have also disappeared. According to Open Doors, North Korea is the most dangerous place worldwide to live  as a Christian. Chinese Communists want churches to sing worship songs praising communism The Chinese Communist Party, China's ruling political class, released a plan on May 7 mandating that Protestant churches include songs in their worship praising communism. Sadly, reports of Protestants representing the official Three-Self Patriotic church indicate they are complying with the new regulations. Nigerian Muslims massacred 200 villagers, mostly Catholic This just in from Truth Nigeria. Fulani Muslim jihadists massacred 200 villagers from the farming community in Guma County located in Benue State. Most of the residents are Catholics. Witnesses report that  40 gunmen stormed the village shouting “Allahu Akbar.” The terrorists opened fire on civilians while setting homes on fire, and killing indiscriminately. Over 10,000 survivors who escaped are now needing clean water, medical aid, and facilities to house them. Equipping the Persecuted ministry is collecting resources to provide for immediate needs.   Over the last two years, 10,217  Nigerians have been killed in Muslim-inspired massacres, and about 6,900 of those killings have occurred in Benue State. Israel bombed 80 more Iranian targets In its ongoing war with Iran, Israel bombed 80 more targets on Sunday. At least 200 Iranians have died thus far in the attacks. The International Atomic Energy Agency's director Rafael Grossi has stated that Iran's underground nuclear development has not been compromised at this point. Global military spending up 37% Sabers are rattling. Louder than ever. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute's Yearbook, published on Monday, world military spending rose by 37 percent in the past decade, and by 9.4 percent last year alone, to $2.7 trillion.  That's the largest bump since the early 1990s. China and India are installing nuclear bombs on warheads. That's a change in policy for these countries.   China is up to 600 nukes, and North Korea has enough fissile materials for 90 total warheads. Proverbs 21:31 says, “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.” South Korea's largest homosexual pride parade South Korea is touting its largest homosexual pride parade ever this year.  The organizers claim 170,000 participants. South Korea has absorbed western immorality faster than other eastern countries. The proportion of South Koreans holding that homosexuality is never justified decreased from 67% in the 1990s to 24% in the most recent survey. That's even lower than Taiwan -- the most pro-homosexual country in Asia. The Christian faith is falling off by generations in South Korea. At this point, 29% of their elderly people adhere to the Protestant faith, but only 13% of the 18 to  29-year-old age group call themselves Protestant Christians. Psalm 78:9 warns of “The children of Ephraim, being armed and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle. They did not keep the covenant of God; They refused to walk in His law, and forgot His works and His wonders that He had shown them.” The rise of apostacy in America and China Christian apostasy continues to rise across the world. The recent Pew Research report on worldwide religious affiliation found that 35 nations have seen an increase between 2010 and 2020 in atheism or a non-affiliation with a church. And 40 nations have seen a substantial decrease in people aligning themselves with the Christian faith.   Of all nations in the world, the United States has the second largest number of atheists or people unaffiliated with a church -- at 100 million people. China has the largest number of atheists or unaffiliated at 1.3 billion.   Christians are still in the majority in 60% of the world's nations, while Muslims are in the majority in 26% of the countries. U.S. unemployment 4.2%, but higher for recent college grads Unemployment in the United States is running at 4.2%. But for recent college grads  -- ages 22 through 27 -- the rate stands at 5.8% — the highest since 202, according to the US Labor Department. Minnesota political assassin captured Sunday night The gunman, Vance Boelter, wanted in the slaying of a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband, as well as in the shooting of a state senator and his wife, was found Sunday night armed and crawling in a field in a sparsely populated stretch of Minnesota, reports NBC News. Police Chief Mark Bruley of the Brooklyn Park Police Department said it was without a doubt the biggest manhunt in the state's history. Authorities allege Boelter, age 57, who posed as a policeman, tried to kill state Senator John Hoffman, a Democrat, and his wife, Yvette, at their home in Champlin at roughly 2 a.m. Saturday before fatally shooting state Rep. Melissa Hortman, a 55-year-old Democrat, and her husband, Mark, in nearby Brooklyn Park. Boelter was arrested without incident.   His motive is still unclear. NBC Chicago reports that police found a manifesto in Boelter's car with the names of 70 politicians including those in Illinois and Wisconsin. 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Drum roll please.  (Drum roll sound effect) $43,874.70 (People clapping and cheering sound effect)   Toward this Friday, June 20th's goal of $92,625, we need to raise $48,750.30 Remember, if you are one of the 3 final people who give a one-time gift of $1,000, Scooter in Naples, Florida will match you with a corresponding $1,000 gift.  Now, if that happens today, Tuesday, June 17th, we will have raised an additional $6,000. I'm wondering whether you might be one of four Worldview listeners to give $5,000 today. In order to raise the remaining amount, I need to find 23 Worldview listeners who will pledge $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600. And another 46 listeners to pledge $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. Please, we need your help right now!  Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right.   Click on the button that indicates a recurring monthly donation if that's your wish. Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, June 17th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  You can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the International Atomic Energy Agency has re-assessed the damage done at a key Iran enrichment plant.

The International Atomic Energy Agency reports no further damage at Iran's Natanz nuclear enrichment plant since Israeli attacks last Friday.

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency says there is a possibility of both radiological and chemical contamination within Iran's main nuclear enrichment facility following Israeli strikes.

Why did Israel launch defensive strikes against Iran's nuclear sites — and what does this mean for regional security? AJC Jerusalem Director Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich joins from IDF reserve duty to explain Operation Rising Lion — Israel's precision military strikes aimed at dismantling Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities. Find out why Israel saw this defensive action as vital to protect millions of lives and prevent Iran's nuclear breakout. Resources: 5 Key Reasons Behind Israel's Defensive Strike on Iran's Imminent Nuclear Threat Listen – AJC Podcasts: The Forgotten Exodus: Untold stories of Jews who left or were driven from Arab nations and Iran People of the Pod:  Latest Episodes:  What Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks' State of the Jewish World Teaches Us Today AJC's CEO Ted Deutch: Messages That Moved Me After the D.C. Tragedy Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at AJC.org/PeopleofthePod You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you've appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Transcript of the Interview: Manya Brachear Pashman  Late Thursday night, Israel launched a series of preemptive strikes against Iran in a military offensive dubbed Operation Rising Lion. The wave of strikes comes after the International Atomic Energy Agency censured Iran for obstructing its inspections after the revelation of a secretive nuclear site. What is happening on the ground, what's next, and what are the implications for Israel, Iran, and the broader Middle East? AJC Jerusalem director, Avital Leibovich, who also serves as Lieutenant Colonel in the IDF reserves, joins us now from reserve duty as counterattacks from Iran have begun. Avital, thank you for joining us with pleasure. Avital, negotiations for a new nuclear deal with Iran have been underway since April. There have been five rounds, maybe six, and another was going to begin on Sunday. President Trump also asked Israel to hold off on this preemptive operation. So why did Israel choose to launch these strikes? At this particular time, Avital Leibovich  Israel took a decision already to prepare for a preemptive attack on Iran. Since November, what happened in November? In November, Hezbollah lost the majority of its capabilities, of its military capabilities, and also of its leadership. Actually, a lot of his leaders, military leaders, have been eliminated, starting with Nasrallah, Hassan, Nasrallah, and going on to all the major generals of the organization. And basically the Shiite axis, as we call it here in Israel, was broken. Add to this, what happened a month later in December, when Assad's regime crashed, collapsed and was replaced by an anti Iranian man, jihadist, which jihadist background, by the name of Ahmed al Shara. So Iran was actually by on its own, really, because instead of circling Israel from the north, both from Syria and from Lebanon. Now it was circling in a very one dimension way, only from the east. So in order to do that, Iran figured out it needed to really upscale its nuclear capabilities, and for that, they sped up a few processes, for example, uranium enrichment, but not only that, also the weaponization of a potential nuclear bomb. And all of these steps actually brought us to a point that we are today, the point of no return. Iran will not be able to return to 20 years ago, 30 years ago, when it did not have those capabilities as it has today. For us in Israel, this is an issue of existence, either we exist or we don't, and that is the sole reason why the preemptive strike actually began today. This is according to Israeli intelligence, we have all the indications and data showing us this really major leap. And look the IAEA, you know, they issue reports every couple of months. It's their kind of responsibility for us. It's a matter of life and death. We cannot, you know, comply only with reports. And the reports sit on some shelf somewhere and and there's a lot of dust which is piling up on these reports for us, we needed action. So based on this very accurate intelligence, and some of this intelligence that has been accumulated for many, many years, you can see in the attack in Iran, you can see the very accurate attacks, the pinpointed strikes, which actually are directed at specific terrorists and not causing damage to uninvolved civilians, just To the locals. Yeah, Manya Brachear Pashman And how do you evaluate the Trump administration's response so far, given the diplomatic efforts underway? Well, Avital Leibovich I think that he is using the attacks to leverage and put pressure on Iran to resume the negotiation table in a few days. And as you know, there were six rounds of talks, and the best of my knowledge, there were huge gaps between the two sides, the American side and the Iranian side. I'm not sure these gaps can be bridged. We heard over and over again, President Trump say that Iran will never be able to enrich uranium. And then we heard Iranian leaders like Hamina say, this is the basic right of the Iranian people to enrich uranium. So I'm not sure how you can get you can bridge such a deep gap overall, I think that the President. Uh, has been congratulating Israel on its excellent attacks until now. But again, we are in the beginning. We're in the beginning phase of the attacks, although they're spread all over Iran. This is still the first day. We need to keep this in mind. Manya Brachear Pashman  The targets included more than nuclear sites. It included ballistic missile sites as well, and we're receiving word that Iran has fired ballistic missiles toward Israel as we speak, they fired ballistic missiles on Israel in April. If this counterattack continues, do you expect the United States to step in to defend Israel, and do you expect some of your neighbors to step in and help as well as they did in April the United Arab Emirates or Bahrain Avital Leibovich So as for the neighbors, I think that if their aerial space will be violated and breached by Iran, then of course, they have the right, like any other country, they're sovereign, to protect their own airspace. First of all, they will be protecting themselves and their people, not Israel, as for the US. This really depends on what Iran chooses to do next. The retaliation that Iran had practiced until now was launching 100 plus drones, explosive drones, to Israel. Almost all of these drones have been intercepted. This happened in the morning today. Now if Iran will decide that the ballistic missiles or the cruise missiles that it will launch here, will attack not only Israel, but also US bases across the region. Then here, there's a question, how will the US respond? Will the US retaliate as well? If that would happen, we could have even a more significant strike together the US and Israel. Manya Brachear Pashman  These attacks killed two lead scientists, IRGC commanders, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps leaders. Is there a long-term goal of prompting a regime change? Avital Leibovich  So first of all, there are few types of targets in Iran, and you mentioned some of them. Physics and nuclear scientists are, of course, a critical human resource to the Iranian regime, as they rely on their long term knowledge and expertise on producing the bomb as soon as possible, as quick as possible, and by eliminating them in a way, you are removing the immediate threat. Other options are economic options. For example, really Iran relies on oil and buys it from China and maybe other countries as well. So obviously, Israel could decide to target its oil reserves, and this will be, of course, a significant economic blow. The third option is to target the government, leadership, politicians. Now, Israel, up to this moment, did not choose an economic target or a political target, but this may change in the future. The military targets, of course, are the most immediate targets that Israel is attacking, and the idea is to eliminate the immediate threat on Israel for the long range? Well, in the Middle East, in this part of the world, unfortunately, long range is something we can only put as a vision which is not bad. I'm happy to dream. I'm dreaming often Iran, which is similar to the Iran we knew before 1979 before the revolution, a moderate country, a human, loving country with values that I can share and adopt just the same. I'm looking at a different Middle East, maybe in a few years, with an expansion of the Abraham Accords, and creating an axis of moderate countries and other Shiite countries. So all of these changes that we're witnessing right now in the region and may still witness in the future, may all have an impact also on the long range outcome of the current war, which is unprecedented. Manya Brachear Pashman   I know Israel calls this a preemptive attack, but what do you say to countries who have already expressed concern about what they call an unprovoked attack? Avital Leibovich Well, I think it's enough for them just to look at the many kind of materials, which Israel and the Israeli. Army released today, showing what they have done, what Iran has done on its own soil. Now, when you follow the targets we just spoke about, you can see that these are not civilian targets. In other words, Israel is not attacking a school or a building just in the middle of Tehran for nothing. It's attacking deliberate military related sites. Actually, I think that, if I'm daring to dream again, I think that the people of Israel and the people of Iran have a lot in common. They're both people with deep heritage, with beautiful cultures. So I do envision one day a different regime in Iran, such a regime that could really bring the two countries together, opening a new page. And I think it will do a better Middle East here for all of us. Manya Brachear Pashman  We have talked about how Hamas embeds itself among the Palestinian civilians in Gaza. So no matter how precise Israel's attacks are, civilians are killed. Does Iran do the same thing? Or, I should say, does the Iranian regime do the same thing in Iran? Avital Leibovich  Obviously, Iran is not a democracy, and there is a similarity here with Hamas. We are talking about almost a fanaticist religious kind of aspect, which is also very similar to Hamas. Actually, Hamas and Iran have been connected for decades, for many, many decades, so they do share a lot of similarities. But unfortunately, the freedom of movement, freedom of speech, freedom of of culture, is not something which is of an ordinary situation in Iran. It's very unfortunate. You know, I'm sometimes following the social media in Iran, and I see how people speak about the regime. I see how they curse the regime. I see how they aspire for better lives. I see them organize parties in basements and so so the regime will not find out. I see them the women wearing jeans underneath hijabs long dresses, trying to conceal them for God forbid, so they would not be considered as not modest. So it's very unfortunate that the public is suffering in Iran, and we see that, not only in the general atmosphere, but also we see it with the standards of life, they have only electricity a couple of days of couple of hours a day. Water is scarce. The the prices of food, they are huge. Take, for example, today, one American dollar, it equals almost 1 million rials. For comparison, $1 equals three point 60 Israeli shekels. So yeah, they're suffering from many, many perspectives. Manya Brachear Pashman  Thank you so much for joining us stay safe.  Avital Leibovich   Thank you, Manya, and I'll just thank everybody for their support. I'm Israel. If Manya Brachear Pashman  you missed last week's episode, be sure to tune in for a special crossover episode between people of the pod and Books and Beyond, the podcast of the Rabbi Sacks legacy, Dr Tanya white, host of Books and Beyond, and Joanna benaroche, global, Chief Executive of the legacy, sit down with my colleague, Maggie wishegrad Fredman to discuss how the wisdom and perspective of the late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks still endures today.  

On this week's Defense & Aerospace Report Washington Roundtable, Dr. Patrick Cronin of the Hudson Institute think tank, Michael Herson of American Defense International, former Pentagon Europe chief Jim Townsend of the Center for a New American Security, former Pentagon comptroller Dr. Dov Zakheim of the Center for Strategic and International Studies join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss uncertainty in Congress as reconciliation, the Trump administration's rescissions request, authorizations, appropriations and markups move ahead; President Trump deploys 4,000 National Guardsmen and 700 Marines to LA amidst largely peaceful protests against the administration's deportation policies; American and Chinese negotiators agree to allow the US access to critically important rare earths as tariffs on China will be capped at 55 percent; the Pentagon reviews the agreement among Australia, Britain and the United States to cooperate on nuclear attack submarines; Russia surges drone attacks on Ukraine as it masses forces for a major offensive to retake territory; talks to craft a ceasefire increasingly diminish as Russia concludes it can win the war; Washington withdraws US diplomats from Iraq as Israel is imminently expected to attack Iran as the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency declares Tehran in breach of nonproliferation obligations as Iranian officials vow to expand their nuclear program.

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 72-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,216 on turnover of $6.7-billion N-T. Kaohsiung Districts Suspend Work and Classes Due to Heavy Rain Parts of Kaohsiung are suspending work and classes, due to heavy rain. The city government announced that school and work in Mao-lin District, as well as parts of Tao-yuan District will be cancelled today for safety. Officials say a now-dissipated tropical depression has resulted in torrential (滂沱) showers in mountainous areas, with risks of rockslides and overflowing rivers. (NS) Israel Claims Tehran Attack Targeted MIlitary and Nuclear Program Officials Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel targeted Iran's main enrichment facility in Natanz and the country's ballistic missile program, as well as top nuclear scientists and officials, in an attack today. He said Iran was working on a new plan to destroy Israel after its old plan, failed. Netanyahu said in an address on social media that the attacks will continue “for as many days at it takes to remove this threat.” Iranian state television says the head of Iran

Meet my friends, Clay Travis and Buck Sexton! If you love Verdict, the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show might also be in your audio wheelhouse. Politics, news analysis, and some pop culture and comedy thrown in too. Here’s a sample episode recapping four Thursday takeaways. Give the guys a listen and then follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Middle East Tensions Clay Travis and Buck Sexton broadcast live from Washington, D.C., where Clay and Buck share behind-the-scenes insights from their high-level meetings with members of President Donald Trump’s administration. The hour opens with lighthearted anecdotes about fan encounters in Georgetown and a humorous mishap involving Clay being denied entry to a White House meeting due to not having a Real ID. Despite the setback, Clay books former NFL kicker Jay Feely—now a congressional candidate in Arizona—for Hour 2 after a chance sidewalk meeting. The conversation quickly pivots to serious geopolitical developments, with a major focus on escalating tensions in the Middle East. Clay and Buck analyze the Trump administration’s strategic posture toward Iran amid reports of U.S. personnel being evacuated from embassies in the region. They discuss the implications of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) declaration that Iran is violating nuclear non-proliferation agreements—marking the first such ruling in 20 years—and the possibility of an imminent Israeli military strike on Iranian nuclear facilities. President Trump’s firm stance that Iran “cannot have a nuclear weapon” is highlighted, along with his administration’s efforts to support Israel while avoiding direct U.S. military involvement. Buck, drawing on his CIA background, and Clay explore the broader regional dynamics, including the Abraham Accords, Saudi-Israeli relations, and Iran’s weakening influence through proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas. They also examine the internal pressures facing the Iranian regime and speculate on whether a successful Israeli strike could destabilize the theocracy and pave the way for a more democratic future in Iran. Jay Feely for AZ Arizona congressional candidate Jay Feely. The former NFL kicker and sports broadcaster shares his journey from the football field to the political arena, emphasizing his commitment to President Donald Trump’s America First agenda. Feely discusses the challenges of campaign fundraising, the importance of border security, and the economic struggles facing young Americans, particularly in high-cost housing markets like Arizona. Feely also weighs in on the controversial topic of transgender athletes in women’s sports, defending fairness and safety for female competitors. He recounts his personal experience coaching girls' soccer and criticizes Simone Biles’ comments about Riley Gaines, highlighting the biological advantages male athletes have in women’s sports. The hour takes a lighter turn as Clay and Buck debate whether Clay could beat WNBA star Angel Reese in a one-on-one basketball game, sparking humorous banter about aging, athleticism, and dad pride. Feely joins in, joking about his own competitive edge and experiences playing with LPGA golfers. NYC Politics The upcoming mayoral race doesn't offer good options. Clay and Buck critique progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani’s past support for replacing police with social workers in high-crime areas, contrasting it with the potential return of Andrew Cuomo. Despite Cuomo’s controversial past, Clay argues he may be the most rational Democrat in the race, sparking debate among listeners. Obedience Training for the Masses The escalating national unrest, immigration enforcement, and cultural flashpoints shaping the political landscape under President Donald Trump. The hour opens with a critical analysis of the ongoing protests and riots across major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Seattle, and New York City. Clay and Buck emphasize the distinction between peaceful protests and violent riots, highlighting the media's reluctance to acknowledge the latter. A major focus is on President Trump’s immigration policy, particularly his promise to execute the largest deportation operation in American history. The hosts underscore that this initiative, which prioritizes the removal of violent criminal offenders, aligns with the working-class majority’s support. They also discuss the exploitation of illegal labor by elites and the need for stricter enforcement against employers hiring undocumented workers. Make sure you never miss a second of the show by subscribing to the Clay Travis and Buck Sexton show podcast wherever you get your podcasts: ihr.fm/3InlkL8 For the latest updates from Clay and Buck: https://www.clayandbuck.com/ Connect with Clay Travis and Buck Sexton on Social Media: X - https://x.com/clayandbuck FB - https://www.facebook.com/ClayandBuck/ IG - https://www.instagram.com/clayandbuck/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/clayandbuck Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/ClayandBuck TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@clayandbuck YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TURKEY'S INTERNAL CHALLENGES AND EXTERNAL INFLUENCEHEADLINE 1: Israel's defense exports increased 13 percent in 2024. HEADLINE 2: Israel is arming jihadi criminals in Gaza.HEADLINE 3: The Syrian government agreed to give the International Atomic Energy Agency access to former Assad regime nuclear sites.--FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer delivers timely situational updates and analysis, followed by a conversation with Sinan Ciddi, director of FDD's Turkey Program.Learn more at: www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief/

GAZA AID, HAMAS, AND THE 'DAY AFTER'HEADLINE 1: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is talking about normalization with Israel.HEADLINE 2: The United States, Britain, France, and Germany, are planning to submit a resolution to the International Atomic Energy Agency board declaring Iran non-compliant with its non-proliferation obligations. Because it is.HEADLINE 3: A Saudi-led delegation of Arab foreign ministers was supposed to visit the West Bank yesterday. Israel blocked it. --FDD Executive Director Jon Schanzer delivers timely updates and sharp analysis, followed by a conversation with John Spencer, who serves as the chair of urban warfare studies at West Point's Modern War Institute.Learn more at: https://www.fdd.org/fddmorningbrief/

China, Russia, and Iran support the International Atomic Energy Agency in playing a constructive role in resolving issues pertaining to Iran's nuclear program. A joint meeting between senior diplomats from the three countries and the head of the IAEA sent that message on Thursday. What's the significance of the joint meeting in Vienna? What came out of the Iranian Foreign Minister's visit to Beijing? What can we expect from the third round of indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the U.S.?

Bruce Power's Chief Operating Officer James Scongack is Chairman of the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council and, as he explains, the country aims to play a leadership role in nuclear medicine, not just for Canada's benefit, but also to provide health benefits for the rest of the world.He outlines the life-saving diagnostics and treatments that now exist thanks to isotopes produced in Canada's Candu reactors, research reactors and cyclotrons, and talks about the new trials and treatments which are emerging.The Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council has recently signed an agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency's Rays for Hope campaign and aims to help provide access to nuclear medicine's diagnostics and treatments to those parts of the world where people do not currently have access. This is part of what he sees as driving hugely growing demand in the years ahead.For those who may say that producing isotopes is the equivalent of a 'side hustle' for a nuclear power plant, Scongack says it might be "1% of the cashflow, but it's 50% of our contribution" in terms of tackling some of the greatest challenges that communities and society are facing.Scongack also talks about progress at Bruce Power, where the modernisation programme is adding extra capacity equivalent to that which would be provided by building three small modular reactors. There's also an update on Bruce C.Scongack, who sees a bright future for nuclear energy in general, says that communicating positive stories is key. He presents the Canadian Nuclear Isotopes Council's own podcast - called Isotopes for Hope - helping to spread the news about what he calls a "real hidden gem of what our industry around the world does".Key links to find out more:World Nuclear NewsCanadian Nuclear Isotopes CouncilIsotopes for HopeBruce PowerMilestones for Canada's Bruce Power unitsEmail newsletter:Sign up to the World Nuclear News daily or weekly news round-upsContact info:alex.hunt@world-nuclear.orgEpisode credit:  Presenter Alex Hunt. Co-produced and mixed by Pixelkisser Production

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency warns Iran is stepping up its uranium enrichment program, getting very close to what it needs for nuclear weapons; Iran is one of the major potential crises the incoming Trump administration ... ...

Jonathan Blake and Nils Gilman join us to discuss their recent book, Children of a Modest Star: Planetary Thinking for an Age of Crises, in which they propose a framework of "planetary thinking" to address the interconnected crises facing humanity. Drawing on historical lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the eradication of smallpox, among other examples, Blake and Gilman advocate for moving beyond traditional state-centered responses. They urge a reorientation toward systemic, planetary-scale challenges that acknowledge humanity's deep entanglement with ecological and biogeochemical systems. In this episode, we explore why "planetarity" is an idea whose time has come, the limitations of anthropocentric institutions, the practicalities of planetary governance in a world marked by socio-political differences, and the critical role of new epistemological frameworks in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and global security. Jonathan Blake is the Associate Director of Programs at the Berggruen Institute, where he oversees research projects and the broader research agenda for the Planetary Program. A political scientist with a PhD from UC Berkeley, his work focuses on planetary politics, ethnic conflict, and migration, among other topics. His writing has appeared in Noema, where he serves as Associate Editor, as well as in The Atlantic, Boston Review, The Nation, Los Angeles Review of Books, and various academic journals. Nils Gilman is the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President at the Berggruen Institute and also serves as Deputy Editor of Noema Magazine. He is the author of Mandarins of the Future: Modernization Theory in Cold War America (2004), Deviant Globalization: Black Market Economy in the 21st Century (2011), and Children of a Modest Star: Planetary Thinking for an Age of Crises (2024). Holding a Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate in History from UC Berkeley, Gilman is a historian and political theorist with a career spanning academia and consultancy in international security. His work has contributed to foundational insights on climate security and governance, and his writings frequently explore the limitations of current institutions in addressing planetary-scale crises, positioning him as a leading voice in reimagining governance frameworks for the Anthropocene. Jonathan tweets @jonathansblake: https://x.com/jonathansblake Nils tweets @nils_gilman: https://x.com/nils_gilman We discussed: Children of a Modest Star: Planetary Thinking for an Age of Crises (Stanford University Press, 2024): https://www.sup.org/books/politics/children-modest-star

It was an honor today to welcome Dr. Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Dr. Grossi is a distinguished diplomat with an esteemed career spanning 40 years in nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament. He has served as the IAEA's Director General since December 2019 and was re-appointed for a second four-year term beginning in December 2023. Prior to his current role, Dr. Grossi served as Argentina's Ambassador to Austria. Other career highlights include Argentine Representative to the IAEA, President of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, Assistant Director General for Policy and Chief of the Cabinet at the IAEA, and Chief of Cabinet at the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. He began his career as Argentine Representative to NATO. We were delighted to visit with Dr. Grossi. In our conversation, we discuss the IAEA's critical role in nuclear safety, development, and nonproliferation amid global challenges, including efforts to prevent nuclear accidents in active conflict zones. Dr. Grossi discusses the agency's unprecedented decision to establish a permanent presence of IAEA experts at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine to ensure safety and security, the agency's ongoing communication with both Ukrainian and Russian leadership to mitigate risks during wartime, and the dedication of the IAEA staff who have volunteered for these high-risk missions. We cover the IAEA's history, which was inspired by President Eisenhower's “Atoms for Peace” initiative, the agency's evolving mission in regulatory and industrial standardization, the increasing interest in nuclear energy as a demand-driven solution to global power needs, and how the IAEA is supporting countries through their Milestones Program to provide guidance for adopting nuclear energy. Additionally, we explore the growing role of private capital in nuclear projects and the IAEA's efforts to engage with international financial institutions including the World Bank to create a more favorable investing environment for nuclear energy, geopolitical dynamics influencing the sector, and the IAEA's collaboration with nuclear CEOs, vendors, and clients worldwide. It was a profound look at the challenges and opportunities shaping nuclear energy and we are deeply grateful to Dr. Grossi for sharing his time and insights. Mike Bradley kicked off the show by highlighting that even though broader U.S. equity markets continue to post new highs, they're still trying to decipher Trump's current tariff “rhetoric” from future tariff “realism.” Trump surprised markets again this weekend by vowing to impose a 100% tariff on BRICS countries that don't/won't commit to be anchored to the U.S. dollar. He also noted that current global events (including South Korea's President declaring Marshall Law on Tuesday & French lawmakers possibly seeking to hold a no-confidence vote to topple the French President on Wednesday) could spill over and potentially stall the runup in U.S. equities. On the crude oil market front, WTI has traded up ~$2/bbl this week (~$70/bbl) on news the U.S. is sanctioning several foreign entities tied to the Iranian crude oil tanker “shadow fleet.” OPEC delayed their virtual meeting to Dec 5th and consensus is betting OPEC will agree to delay an oil production increase by another three months. On the natural gas front, U.S. natural gas price plunged this week to ~$3/MMBtu due to a warmer 6-10-day weather outlook and a rebound in U.S. gas production (~104bcfpd). European natural gas prices continue to stay elevated mostly due to extremely high November gas storage withdrawals. The EU raised their February gas storage target levels to 50% (up from 45%) due to growing 2025 supply concerns. On the energy equity front, Energy is among the worst performing S&P sectors this past week (down ~1%) due to the strong U.S. dollar, modest OPEC Meeting uncertainty and Canadian/Mexican crude oil

AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, warns space for diplomacy is 'getting smaller' for Iran's nuclear program.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy told the United Nations that Russia is preparing to attack Ukraine's nuclear plants. At the same time, Iranian officials have repeatedly stated they are interested in resuming nuclear diplomacy. Nick Schifrin discussed more with Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

It's Tuesday, September 24th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson and Adam McManus Fulani Muslim herdsmen kill Nigerian Christians On Thursday, September 19th, Fulani Muslim herdsmen in central Nigeria, Africa killed two Christians, reports Morning Star News. Solomon Sanga, a local resident, said, “Audu Bala and Jonathan Moses were working on their farms when these Fulani herdsmen waylaid them and shot at them. The two died instantly, while another Christian victim, Japheth Yakubu, was kidnapped on September 10 while he was working on his farm.” In addition, the Fulani Muslim herdsmen murdered three other believers at church services the prior Sunday when they also kidnapped Pastor Yakubu and 30 congregation members. The assailants have phoned the pastor's family, demanding a ransom of $18,295. Isaiah 1:17 says, “Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, and plead the widow's cause.” Please pray for  Pastor Yakubu's safe return as well as the other congregation members and that these Muslim murderers will be brought to justice, repent of their sin, and trust Jesus Christ as their Savior. 16 Hezbollah terrorists killed After Israeli attacks on Hezbollah quarters in Lebanon over the weekend, the terrorist organization now reports 16 of its members were killed. Among the dead were senior Hezbollah leader Ibrahim Aqil and another top commander, Ahmed Wahb. Plus, 21 others were reportedly killed in the bombing. Aqil was a suspect in the US embassy and Marine barrack bombings that killed 300 people in 1983 in Beirut, Lebanon. Commenting on the Israeli attack, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan  said, “Any time a terrorist who has murdered Americans is brought to justice, we believe that that is a good outcome.” Israel launched 300 missiles Monday against Hezbollah Israel launched another 300 missiles on Monday at a Hezbollah target in Lebanon. They simultaneously issued text messages in Arabic, urging residents of the area to “move away from the village.” The full context declared, ”If you are in a building housing weapons for Hezbollah, move away from the village until further notice,” reports the Associated Press.  The death toll from Monday's attack was 182 persons, at last report.  Iran's growing nuclear threat Iran has 165 kilograms of 60% Uranium and 813 kilograms of 20% Uranium, according to the latest report from the International Atomic Energy Agency. The nuclear project is increasing Iran's store of highly-enriched Uranium at a rate of 100 kilograms per year. To put this into perspective, the nuclear bomb that America dropped on Hiroshima, Japan in August 1945 contained about 50 kilograms of highly-enriched Uranium. The report is only an estimate since Iran has discontinued international monitoring three and a half years ago.  1,000 West Africans drowned in flooding Severe flooding has impacted western Africa, especially the nations of Chad, Nigeria, Mali, and Niger, reports CBS News. At least 1,000 people have drowned in the deluges. Bridges and dams have collapsed. Public buildings and homes have been demolished by the waters. Dangerous flash floods occurring in the night have caught elderly people and those with disabilities unawares, resulting in the loss of life. Around 4,000,000 Africans have been affected — many of whom have been displaced. Borno State Museum Park estimates losing 80% of their animals. Oprah's endorsement of Kamala Harris in Michigan As The Worldview reported on Monday, Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris sat down for a tightly scripted conversation with Oprah Winfrey in Michigan last Thursday. Sky News Australia called it a Cringe-fest. SKY NEWS NARRATOR: “Kamala Harris's interview with Oprah Winfrey went exactly as you would have expected. Commentators across the globe are mocking the interview, calling it a ‘cringe fest,' and slamming its pathetic attempt to mask democratic propaganda as a hard-hitting interview.” Oprah and Kamala were surrounded by liberal Hollywood actresses like Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts, who joined by Zoom, and predictably parroted Democratic talking points and fawned over the Vice President. At the very end of the virtual infomercial, Oprah enthusiastically endorsed Kamala for President. Listen. WINFREY: “This is the moment for all decent people, all caring people who want the best for yourself and you want the best for other people. This is the moment for people who are tired of all of the bickering and all of the name calling, people who are exhausted by the craziness and the made up stories and the conspiracies. “This is the moment you want to get on with your life, because you know that we can do better and that we deserve better. As my friend and mentor Maya Angelou always said, ‘When you know better, you got to do better.' Thank you. So, let's do better and vote for Kamala Harris.” Poll: Trump edging out Harris in 4 battleground states Pollsters expect the US presidential election this November to be close, most likely coming down to seven battleground states. Recent Emerson College Polling and The Hill found Trump edging out Harris in Arizona (49% to 48%); Georgia (50% to 47%); Pennsylvania (48% to 47%); and Wisconsin (49% to 48%.)  The polling discovered Harris leading Trump in Michigan (49% to 47%) and North Carolina (49% to 48%). The candidates were tied at 48% in Nevada.    Whether it be the voters or the president of the United States, remember, “The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord. Like the rivers of water, He turns it wherever He wishes.” (Proverbs 21:1) Pentecostal and Baptist pastors more likely to vote for Trump And finally, more details now on that Lifeway poll which revealed how U.S. Protestant pastors plan to vote in the presidential election which we first reported on September 18th. Pastors of Pentecostal, Baptist, and non-denominational churches are the most enthusiastic supporters of Donald Trump with 64-65% of the leaders in these denominations planning to vote for the Republican presidential nominee.   Conversely, only 24% of Presbyterian pastors and 26% of Methodist pastors are going for Trump. Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, September 24th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Joe Biden unveiled his plan for a cease-fire for Israel's war in Gaza, but Hamas has refused to accept it so far. Will the president be able to get both sides to come to an agreement in time for Election Day? Plus, Hezbollah continues to attack villages in northern Israel and the International Atomic Energy Agency censures Iran for not cooperating with its inspectors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices