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Erick opens by explaining why the Iran war cannot be negotiated like a normal conflict: the Islamic Republic's Mahdiism means the Ayatollahs believe they must bring about the apocalypse. He then walks through Brett McGurk's argument that Iran is actually losing its leverage in the Strait of Hormuz, with oil flows back to two-thirds of […]
Ralph speaks with Colonel Lawrence Wilkerson, former Chief of Staff for Colin Powell, about the fall of the American Empire and self-proclaimed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth. Then we welcome the CEO and co-founder of the Canadian-based organization Corporate Knights, Toby Heap, to break down Trump's unprecedented trade war with our closest ally. Plus, Ralph has some choice words for Hakeem Jeffries and his meeting with Jared Kushner and for Hillary Clinton and her take on the war with Iran.Lawrence Wilkerson is a retired U.S. Army colonel. Over his 31 years of service, Colonel Wilkerson served as Secretary of State Colin Powell's Chief of Staff from 2002 to 2005, and Special Assistant to General Powell when he was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1989 to 1993. Colonel Wilkerson also served as Deputy Director and Director of the U.S. Marine Corps War College at Quantico, Virginia, and for fifteen years he was the Distinguished Visiting Professor of Government and Public Policy at the College of William and Mary. He is currently a Senior Fellow at the Eisenhower Media Network, senior advisor to the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, and co-founder of the All-Volunteer Force Forum.Two-thirds of the world now thinks that we are an enemy of their state. Two-thirds of the world. And it happens to be the two-third that has the greatest amount of the GDP in the world.Colonel Lawrence WilkersonI've lived for 81 years, almost 82, and I've watched my country go to hell right in front of my face… And the billionaires who want all of this to happen, they do not want a democracy. A democracy is fallible. A democracy can't beat China. A democracy can't beat Russia. A democracy can't even beat Iran. They want a technocracy that is run by them, armed by them, technical revolution by them. They want all of this, and oh by the way they want to live to 150 while they're doing it too.Colonel Lawrence WilkersonEvery freaking hour they create a series of war crimes in Iran. Every freaking hour they perpetrate war crimes in the Persian Gulf. Every freaking hour they perpetrate war crimes in Lebanon with Israel. “What's new?,” I want to say. We are a criminal state. There is no other way to describe it. We are a criminal state. We pay no attention whatsoever to domestic or international law. Only when it benefits the person who is doing the deed do we pay any attention at all.Colonel Lawrence WilkersonToby Heaps is the CEO and co-founder of Corporate Knights, and Editor-in-Chief of Corporate Knights magazine. He spearheaded the first global ranking of the world's 100 most sustainable corporations in 2005, and in 2007 coined the term “clean capitalism.”What we're seeing is a sort of political physics—for every action is an equal and opposite reaction. Canada has in many ways benefited and rallied around our nationhood. We're often not the most boisterous or loudest type of folks. But this continued disrespect for our statehood and the continued attacks and the unreasonableness and the unfair play, our prime minister said something to the effect of: when the United States signs something, it's in pencil. It's really denigrating the United States' reputation globally and in Canadians' minds.Toby HeapsNews 8/28/26* This week, the left-wing insurgency in the Democratic Party scored several new victories. First, NBC reports that in Oklahoma, N'Kiyla Jasmine Thomas won the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Markwayne Mullin, who Trump selected to lead the Department of Homeland Security following the resignation of Secretary Kristi Noem. Thomas will go up against Republican Congressman Kevin Hern in November. Unfortunately, Thomas stands little chance of winning the state, which has not elected a Democratic Senator since 1990. Thomas is a member of the Chickasaw Nation and identifies as a Democratic Socialist, but is “not yet” a member of DSA.* Next, in California, Democracy Now! reports progressive state lawmaker Aisha Wahab has prevailed in the special election to fill the seat vacated by disgraced former Congressman Eric Swalwell. This piece notes that Wahab “overcame a flood of attack ads from pro-Israel groups,” which sought to bolster her Democratic primary rival, Melissa Hernandez. In an interview, Wahab said that she “appreciates” voters in her district for “seeing through” the “lies that were spread by AIPAC.” Wahab will make history as the first Afghan American in Congress and has called for the United States to engage with the Taliban government and attempt to “[steer] them in the right direction” on human rights.* In Georgia, the Hill reports another progressive – Everton Blair – won the special election to fill the seat of Congressman David Scott, who passed away in April during his 12th term in the seat. Blair, the former chair of the Gwinnett County School Board, defeated Scott's daughter Marcye Scott. However, Blair will only represent this seat until the end of the year. Beginning in January, State Rep. Jasmine Clark, who won the May primary, will fill the seat for the 120th Congress.* Meanwhile, in the Cornhusker State, the Nebraska Examiner reports that the “Legal Marijuana NOW U.S. Senate candidate Mike Marvin announced he can't put more ‘energy' into the Senate race because of health issues and endorsed nonpartisan U.S. Senate candidate Dan Osborn.” Marvin will remain on the ballot, but is “urging all who supported [him] to now support…Osborn.” This piece notes that this announcement comes on heels of reporting by Flatwater Free Press showing that two staffers from Osborn's 2024 independent Senate campaign joined the Legal Marijuana NOW executive board and sought to dissolve the party from the inside. This, combined with the fact that former Democratic Senate nominee Cindy Burbank paid Mike Marvin's $1,740 candidate filing fee and dropped out of the race one day after the secretary of state verified Osborn's signatures to be on the fall ballot has fueled speculation that these were coordinated efforts to clear the field for Osborn. Marvin for his part disputes this and says he never planned to leave the race. Osborn is quoted saying “We hope to earn the support of the LMN voters and hope that we can represent their concerns well in the US Senate.”* In more third party news, Trump has launched new broadsides against the emerging ex-MAGA clique – consisting of Tucker Carlson, Congressman Thomas Massie, and former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. According to the Hill, Trump attacked the group, said to be exploring the possibility of founding a new right-wing party, calling Carlson “a loser,” Greene “a highly neurotic woman” and Massie a “real JERK” on Truth Social. The president added, “What a team this would be, THREE LOSERS, and a pocketful of change!...The only chance they have is to join the Radical Left Dumocrats, and try breaking into the Primary System. To all of them I say, PRAISE BE TO ALLAH!” The proximate cause of this latest flare-up between the camps is Trump's decision to allow in 300,000 metric tons of ground beef to be imported in the next 90 days, a move Massie called “worse than socialism.” Greene, who has been perhaps the most vocal defector from the MAGA camp, said “He attacks us with such vitriol because we actually are everything he claimed to be…he has proven as President that he is nothing more than a neocon puppet for Israel, corporations, big donors with special interests, and his dear friends in the Epstein class…We never changed, Trump did.”* Another story from this side of the aisle comes to us from NOTUS, which reports that an “unknown actor” has stolen over $16,000 from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC). This incident, alternatively characterized as a “theft” from a “foreign country” or simply a “fraud,” occurred in early July, when the NRCC “attempted to pay a bill from Ranger Wi-Fi Consulting, a Texas-based firm that specializes in helping clients ‘optimize their wireless networks while ensuring healthy security measures are in place.'” Seeking to assuage the fears of donors, NRCC spokesman Will Kiley told the press that “Protecting donor funds is a top priority for the NRCC,” and vowed that the committee is “working to recover the funds, and…taken steps to ensure it can't happen again.” Listeners might remember that in July, the DNC admitted that they had fallen prey to a scammer, losing almost $30,000 in the process. It would seem that these committees do not have functional safeguards against such schemes.* Our final stories this week all deal with the Middle East. First up, Axios reports that while AIPAC was gearing up for a major ad blitz in Michigan against Democratic nominee Abdul El-Sayed and on behalf of Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers, those plans have apparently been iced at the behest of the Rogers campaign. According to this story, Rogers believes that AIPAC spending in the Democratic primary – over $30 million on behalf of El-Syed's rival Haley Stevens – actually helped boost El-Sayed's candidacy, making his opposition to AIPAC a “centerpiece of his…campaign, using the group's spending against him to portray Democratic opponent Haley Stevens as beholden to the pro-Israel lobby.” Rogers fears the same fate, so he has sought to keep his distance from AIPAC while his allies are urging AIPAC to “get involved without putting the group's name front and center.” However, Rogers' attempts to put some daylight between his campaign and AIPAC has resulted in the latter turning cold towards the Republican candidate. Republicans now worry that AIPAC will “sit out the general election entirely.” As for the perception of AIPAC in Michigan, a recent poll found that “55% of Michigan voters oppose continued U.S. aid to Israel.”* On the other end of the Michigan political spectrum, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib has sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio demanding that he “ensure the immediateand permanent release of U.S. citizen Sama Safi, a 20-year-old university student with a severe complex chronic health condition, who the Israeli military has arbitrarily and wrongfully detained since June 2nd.” This letter goes on to describe how “armed Israeli soldiers raided her family's home in the occupied West Bank in the middle of the night and tore her from her family,” and that since then, she has “suffered under appalling conditions in Israeli military detention including “frequent physical assault, shackling, and the throwing of gas and stun grenades into already overcrowded and poorly ventilated cells,” among other horrors. 40 more members of Congress signed this letter, including six senators, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey and Chris Van Hollen among them. 85 civic groups also signed onto this demand, ranging from faith-based groups to human rights organizations and beyond.* In the region itself, a broad coalition of Muslim states – including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt and, perhaps most notably, the United Arab Emirates – have issued a categorical condemnation of Israel's new “E1” settlement plan. This plan relates to new settlement activities east of occupied East Jerusalem and the signatories decry the plan as constituting “a dangerous escalation that further advances settlement expansion and annexation and undermines the geographical contiguity of the Occupied Palestinian Territory…thereby threatening the viability and realization of an independent, contiguous Palestinian State based on the 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as its capital.” The UAE was the most significant state in the region to sign onto the Trump-brokered Abraham Accords in 2020, which sought to normalize relations between Israel and its neighbors at the expense of the Palestinians. Saudi Arabia was said to be on the verge of signing the accords prior to October 7th and Israel's subsequent genocidal military campaign in Gaza. The UAE taking a new stand against Israel on behalf of the Palestinian cause is widely seen as the final death knell of the Abraham Accords and the beginning of a new era of relations in the Middle East.* Finally, the Economist reports that a group of seven top officials within the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is consolidating power in Iran. The man rumored to be leading this junta is Mohsen Rezaei, the new national-security adviser, former presidential candidate and the longest-serving chief of the IRGC, having led the corps though the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s. Others include the head of the navy, currently overseeing Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the IRGC's commander-in-chief and founder of the Quds Force. Notably absent from this group is Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic. This piece judiciously avoids making any definite predictions about whether this new clique will rule as hardliners or pragmatists, but emphasizes that the late Ali Khamenei expertly “balanced the competing interests of his realm” while these military men favor action.This has been Francesco DeSantis, with In Case You Haven't Heard. Get full access to Ralph Nader Radio Hour at www.ralphnaderradiohour.com/subscribe
Max Blumenthal : - Netanyahu: The Islamic Republic of Britain?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today on America in the MorningBessent Announces Iran Sanctions Plan The Trump administration announced what they call an unprecedented series of measures aimed at isolating Iran's economy, already in tatters, from the rest of the world. John Stolnis reports from Washington the proposed sanctions would target countries that want to do business with the Islamic Republic. Canada Plans Retaliatory Tariffs Canada will announce retaliatory tariffs against the United States today after relations deteriorated sharply Monday, with President Trump telling Canadian leaders to “fall in line” or face consequences “far worse” than existing tariffs, as Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney accusing Washington of trying to subordinate his nation. Correspondent Julie Walker reports. SCOTUS Rules On Mail-In Ballots The Supreme Court gave a victory to President Trump on Monday, clearing his executive order on mail-in ballots. However, as correspondent Ed Donahue reports, more legal and practical challenges loom over whether the U.S. Postal Service and other federal agencies can finish carrying out Trump's directives before the November election. Wanted Massachusetts Woman Found The search for a woman wanted in connection with the death of her Police Officer husband in Massachusetts is over. Correspondent Clayton Neville has details. Iran's Sanction Response Iran is responding harshly to the Trump administration's plans to unleash crippling sanction on nations that do business with Iran following the statements by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Correspondent Laurence Brooks reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says that both militarily and economically, Iran no longer has any control – audio courtesy of CBS News. Latest On The Nevada Wildfire The worst wildfire season in the western U.S. in years continues to claim thousands of acres and dozens of homes. The latest place – but not the only place - to feel the threat: Reno, Nevada. More from correspondent Rich Johnson. Judge's Ruling In Clancy Trial The trial for a Massachusetts mother accused of murdering her three children continues this week after the judge in the case declined to grant a mistrial. Correspondent Clayton Neville reports. Trump Administration Targeting Visas The Trump administration is preparing to revoke the business and tourism visas of up to 200,000 foreigners who have applied for or are currently seeking asylum status in the United States. Oregon Murder Suspect Found A man on the run and wanted for a quintuple murder in Oregon has been found dead. Correspondent Mike Hempen reports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Your morning briefing. All the news you need to start your day.On today's podcast:(1) Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatened economic punishment against any country doing business with Iran as part of what he called an “economic D-Day” campaign to isolate the Islamic Republic and end nearly six months of war.(2) UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he and other European leaders plan to travel to the US next month to lobby President Donald Trump to let Ukraine access some of its Patriot air defense missile stocks ahead of the winter.(3) The UK became the first foreign nation to gain access to Ukraine’s vast trove of battlefield data in a deal designed to train artificial intelligence models and develop fresh military capabilities.(4) The trade war between the US and Canada erupted into an extraordinary exchange of insults and threats between President Donald Trump and Doug Ford, the leader of Ontario.(5) Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent refrained from any further signals on revamping US debt management on Monday, following a report that his department could draw down some of its cash pile to fund buybacks of higher-yielding older securities.(6) Saudi Arabia plans to build a theme park complex near Paris that will include at least one area dedicated to Japanese manga comic books.(7) Recruiters are facing a problem they may have once wished for: Every resume is perfect. Artificial intelligence tools have made it easy to submit a flawless job application, so employers are bringing back traditional techniques to sift through candidates.Podcast Conversation: More Cheese, Please — Japan’s Guilty ConsumptionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
***The first half of an extra-long conversation I had with Adnan Husain on this channel. Check out the full episode on either of your channels or listen to the full audio on my Patreon!*** Join us for a special impromptu edition of Office Hours Sunday Aug 23rd to break down the infamous "Open Letter" addressed to "political prisoners" in the Islamic Republic of Iran signed by a number of promient left academics and activists in the BLM and abolotionist anti-carceral movement. The response has been overwhelming and swift in criticism and condemnation of the ill-advised letter. Sina Rahmani of The East is a Podcast joins Office Hours to analyze and reorient this controversy politically. The Radical Academy is in session so join us with your comments and questions. Tune into both of us and a number of other excellent panelists on this topic on the indispensible Millenials are Killing Capitalism Tue Aug 25 11am-1pmET: Of course, support and subscribe to Sina's unbanned The East is a Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@theeastisapodcast Please support our fundraiser for my online course for students in Gaza: Guerrilla History: Anticolonial Resistance History, Theory, Practice for materials, supplies and equipment for creative expression and sharing of their historical research. Plus we need to fund an in-person version of the course for displaced Gazan students in Cairo. Please be generous again as you have in supporting this course: https://chuffed.org/project/174168-su... Support the show on Patreon or Substack, if you can (and get early access to episodes)! www.patreon.com/adnanhusain https://www.adnanahusain.substack.com Or make a one-time donation to the show and Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/adnanhusain Like, subscribe, share! Also available as audio podcast on all major platforms: https://adnanhusainshow.libsyn.com X: @adnanahusain Substack: adnanahusain.substack.com www.adnanhusain.org
Subscribe now for an ad-free experience and all of our episodes. Danny and Derek must disclose that they have had Hasan Piker on this program. They are listening and learning from him. In this week's news: Israel bombs a Syrian airbase, potentially moving closer to a conflict with Turkey (1:22); Jared Kushner and Benjamin Netanyahu agree to scrap the Gaza Board of Peace's Hamas disarmament plan (7:09); the Iran MOU expires as Trump escalates the economic war (9:20); the Islamic Republic might restart the shooting war (13:36); the Pentagon and Arab governments rethink America's military presence in the Gulf (15:58); Trump curtails military exercises with South Korea, possibly moving toward diplomacy with North Korea/DPRK (18:53); the Sudanese military concludes a new cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia (24:47); the Ebola outbreak in the DRC continues to expand (27:39); in Ukraine, Zelenskyy faces calls for new elections (30:06); Trump suspends new tariffs on Canada (33:01); the U.S. moves Operation Southern Spear onto land (34:50); and a Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report details the cost of the new “Trump class” battleships (36:45). Watch a replay of last night's livestream with Séamus Malekafzali. Don't forget Derek's Substack, Foreign Exchanges. Enjoy Danny's new Substack, Imperialist Realism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Danny and Derek must disclose that they have had Hasan Piker on this program. They are listening and learning from him. In this week's news: Israel bombs a Syrian airbase, potentially moving closer to a conflict with Turkey (1:22); Jared Kushner and Benjamin Netanyahu agree to scrap the Gaza Board of Peace's Hamas disarmament plan (7:09); the Iran MOU expires as Trump escalates the economic war (9:20); the Islamic Republic might restart the shooting war (13:36); the Pentagon and Arab governments rethink America's military presence in the Gulf (15:58); Trump curtails military exercises with South Korea, possibly moving toward diplomacy with North Korea/DPRK (18:53); the Sudanese military concludes a new cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia (24:47); the Ebola outbreak in the DRC continues to expand (27:39); in Ukraine, Zelenskyy faces calls for new elections (30:06); Trump suspends new tariffs on Canada (33:01); the U.S. moves Operation Southern Spear onto land (34:50); and a Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report details the cost of the new “Trump class” battleships (36:45). Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Today on America in the MorningTrump Economic Threat For Iran On the day that the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln left the Middle East after a record-setting time at sea, President Trump is putting Iran on notice with what he's calling an economic D-Day - an isolation campaign against the Islamic Republic unlike anything previous. Correspondent Rich Johnson reports there are still some missing details, and one world superpower who is saying sanctions alone will not put an end to the war. NY Terror Plot Stopped A New York woman is under arrest, charged in connection an alleged plot to blow up the New York State Capitol building in Albany. Jim Roope reports the woman who converted to Islam was deadly serious about her plans. Swalwell Investigation Expands The FBI is expanding their investigation into sexual assault allegations against former California Congressman Eric Swalwell. Correspondent Lisa Dwyer reports the one-time leading candidate to become governor of the Golden State was stopped at an airport and had his electronic devices seized. Philadelphia Masked Man Identity Revealed The man Philadelphia officials say has been terrorizing people in a scary mask has been identified. Correspondent Clayton Neville reports. Trump & Cohen Reconcile President Donald Trump publicly reconciled Thursday evening with Michael Cohen, his former attorney who became a key prosecution witness against him. Telescope Rescue Fails A NASA mission to rescue a falling space telescope has ended in failure. Correspondent Ben Thomas has details. Clancy Trial Continues The murder trial for a mother accused of killing her own children continues in a Massachusetts courtroom, while her lawyers argue their client was overmedicated and misdiagnosed. Correspondent Clayton Neville reports hundreds of women wore pink shirts outside the courtroom this week in support of Lindsay Clancy and others who suffer from postpartum depression. Liberia Takes Deportees The U.S. has sent a first group of deportees to Liberia. Correspondent Donna Warder reports the African nation will reportedly allow 12 hundred people being removed from the United States to enter the country, one of the largest deals the Trump administration has made with another nation to expel migrants who cannot be sent back to their own countries - Audio courtesy of Liberia National Television. Illegal Driving Boat That Killed Two The person behind the wheel of an overcrowded speedboat that capsized during a tour around the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, drowning an infant and her mother, has now been arrested by U.S. immigration authorities who say he was in the country illegally. America in the Morning's Jeff McKay has details. Melania Back At The White House First Lady Melania Trump made a memorable return to the White House Rose Garden Thursday, greeting the crowd with a playful message. Midair Collision Details Released The National Transportation Safety Board has released preliminary details into the midair collision of a State Police helicopter and small plane in the skies over Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Finally Residents of Gary, Indiana along with other towns in Northwest Indiana have been in the dark for days, and it may be into next week before power is restored. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Send us your questions at: https://www.speakpipe.com/Unholy Visit our website to learn more about Unholy and become a friend of the pod: www.unholy-podcast.com Sixty-eight days from the election, the hardest problems on Benjamin Netanyahu's desk are arriving from Washington. Jared Kushner is meeting Hamas directly, and the Gaza withdrawal deadlines he is carrying — thirty, sixty and ninety days — all land inside the Israeli campaign. Yonit and Jonathan read the timing as an unfriendly act rather than an accident, and ask what Donald Trump wants in return for the endorsement he keeps withholding. Also this week: the anti-Netanyahu bloc still cannot say who leads it, the IDF publishes its decisions in five Gaza cases, and the prime minister calls Britain an Islamic Republic on a podcast. Plus a Chutzpah award for an American broadcaster who has found proof of Israeli hostility to Christians in a mathematical symbol, and a Mensch of the Week who proves that sometimes even the most heartbreaking stories can have a happy ending. 00:00 Intro 04:04 68 days out: blocs, mergers and the electoral threshold 10:03 Eisenkot, Bennett and who leads the anti-Netanyahu bloc 14:32 Kushner meets Hamas and Washington's Gaza deadlines 19:59 The IDF's decisions in five Gaza cases 22:24 Huckabee on settler violence, Iran, and Trump on Oman 27:47 Coming up: Simon Sebag Montefiore on the Middle East 28:33 Netanyahu calls Britain an Islamic Republic 33:33 Central Synagogue and the cost to the diaspora 35:35 Chutzpah of the Week 38:56 Mensch of the Week
Brian T. Kennedy, president of the American Strategy Group, chairman of the Committee on the Present Danger: China, and a board member and senior fellow of the Claremont Institute, talks about his recent piece at Claremont’s American Mind, “A Defense of the President’s Strategy in Iran.” Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons is a serious concern, with Brian Kennedy arguing that the President's strategy is focused on preventing the Islamic Republic from acquiring these capabilities, rather than regime change. He emphasizes that the President's stance is not about regime change, but rather about ensuring that Iran cannot pose a nuclear threat to the United States or its allies. He also emphasizes the role of Red China and Russia in Iran's nuclear ambitions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Right, buckle up, trawlers... Trump's crypto company has been rubber-stamped as an actual bank (by his own government no less!) and Marina and Jemma wave a cheery bye Felicia to his press secretary Caroline Levitt (left to perish on the decoy plane while Trump and a "very very very close aide" swanned off on the catering flight). They boggle at the Tates' Temu lawyer, a shouting salami in sunglasses, vowing to take their extradition fight "to Trump" - plus the 30-odd bellends doing solidarity press-ups outside a Miami jail. Then it's back home to Blighty, where Reform reckon they'll save £50bn by whipping PIP off up to three million people and gutting the health bit of Universal Credit, which the BBC broadcast in full, of course. The ladies get stuck into why it's cruel, unworkable and really a mental health story, discuss their own personal experiences of welfare and then it's on to Netanyahu branding us the "Islamic Republic of Britain," and an Underrated of the Week for the actual Pope. Amen!Join The Trawl's Facebook BRAND NEW Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590931382660Get your tickets for The Trawl Live from https://thetrawl.tix.to/ticketsThank you for sharing and please do follow us @MarinaPurkiss @jemmaforte @TheTrawlPodcast Patreonhttps://patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTrawl Twitterhttps://twitter.com/TheTrawlPodcastIf you've even mildly enjoyed The Trawl, you'll love the unfiltered, no-holds-barred extras from Jemma & Marina over on Patreon, including:• Exclusive episodes of The Trawl Goss – where Jemma and Marina spill backstage gossip, dive into their personal lives, and often forget the mic is on• Early access to The Trawl Meets…• Glorious ad-free episodesPlus, there's a bell-free community of over 3,300 legends sparking brilliant chat.And it's your way to support the pod which the ladies pour their hearts, souls (and occasional anxiety) into. All for your listening pleasure and reassurance that through this geopolitical s**tstorm… you're not alone.Come join the fun:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheTrawlPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today's top stories, with context, in just 15 minutes.On today's podcast:1) President Trump announced plans to subject Iran to an “economic D-Day,” underscoring his rising frustration with Tehran’s refusal to capitulate despite military strikes and an American blockade targeting its oil exports. Trump didn’t specify what measures he would take, but his threat to target Iran’s trading partners, none of which he cited by name, put an immediate focus on China, which buys the bulk of Iran’s oil. Trump demanded that all countries cease providing Iran access to exchange houses, cash transfers, swap lines, ship registries, front companies and avenues to smuggle out its oil. He also sought to rally other nations that have so far declined to support his war on the Islamic Republic, saying the US needs all its allies to help “isolate, and defeat, the Iran threat.” 2) A tentative trade deal between the US and Canada would lower tariffs on certain Canadian exports of steel and aluminum to 25% and cut duties on Canadian auto exports to 15%, according to people familiar with the matter. The details have yet to be finalized and are not expected to apply across the board. For steel and aluminum, different rates could apply to some derivative products that include those metals, said some of the people, who requested anonymity to discuss terms of the agreement before it is announced. Tariffs on the non-US content in autos exported from Canada would be reduced to 15% from 25%, according to people familiar with the negotiations. Talks between US and Canadian trade advisers continued Wednesday, less than 24 hours after President Trump paused planned 50% levies on billions of dollars of Canadian goods to allow more time to negotiate. 3) Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made a fresh attempt to rein-in long-term borrowing costs from multi-year highs, sending Treasury yields and the dollar down. Just two weeks after releasing its planned schedule for buybacks this quarter, the Treasury Department on Wednesday said it’s “increasing, by at least double, the size of liquidity support buyback operations” for securities dated from the 10-year to the 30-year sector. The bold intervention to stem a potentially damaging rise in US borrowing costs has some investors saying the dollar will ultimately pay the price. Some market participants see the move as a turning point, with Washington taking a more active role in keeping its borrowing costs down. Coming after other recent efforts to rein in long-term yields, it’s reviving a concern that US policy could weaken faith in the dollar and push investors toward alternatives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today on America in the MorningNational Debt Surpasses $40 Trillion The national debt surpassed a record $40 trillion dollars on Wednesday, a staggering milestone as defense costs, social programs like Social Security and Medicare and interest on the burgeoning deficit make up an enormous share of federal spending. Correspondent Rich Johnson reports it took just five months for the US national debt to increase by another one trillion dollars, and double under the last two presidents. Primary Surprises Progressive Democrats had a good showing during the primaries this week but some key Trump-backed candidates failed to win their elections. John Stolnis has some of the key takeaways from Tuesday's primary battles in Florida, Wisconsin, and Alaska. Americans Killed In Kenya Chopper Crash We're learning more about a deadly crash involving a helicopter that was taking tourists on an African safari in Kenya. Correspondent Clayton Neville reports a television executive is among the seven who died – five of them were American citizens. Trump Touts White House Projects President Trump spent part of his Wednesday on the White House lawn with reporters to inspect some of his projects. Lisa Dwyer reports. Pennsylvania Midair Collision There was tragedy in Pennsylvania after a small airplane and a state police helicopter collided midair. DOJ Defends Comey Investigation The Justice Department is defending the James Comey prosecution in the Trump threat case. Correspondent Mike Hempen has the details. Latest In The Middle East The United Arab Emirates suspended all trade with Iran after the UAE said it had come under renewed fire from the country — a move that will further isolate the Islamic Republic in the Middle East. While Iran claims the Strait of Hormuz is closed, President Trump says it is open and ships are passing through, but not Iranian vessels, as the President is warning Iran that the US naval blockade which he says has been working well will remain in place. Correspondent Julie Walker has details. Graham's Debate Gaffs During a debate, Senator Darline Graham, who has the backing of President Trump, made a high profile misstep a week before she faces a runoff election in her bid to hold onto the South Carolina US Senate seat to which she was appointed last month. Correspondent Meg Kinnard reports. Judge Removed From Texas Trial The judge who presided over the Karmelo Anthony trial was removed from the Texas track meet stabbing case as the defendant who was convicted of murder seeks a new trial. Lisa Dwyer reports that the judge's television interview after the case is at the crux of the decision – audio courtesy WFAA-TV Dallas. Latest On US-Canada Trade President Trump says the U-S and Canada have reached a "very fair deal" on tariffs, but the details are still being worked on. Correspondent Clayton Neville has the latest. Missing Officer Police in Massachusetts are investigating the death of an off-duty officer in what they describe as a domestic matter. Correspondent Marcela Sanchez reports. Finally The Drug Enforcement Administration is joining the investigation into the death of actress Hayden Panittiere. They will soon be on their way to the UK. Entertainment reporter Kevin Carr says that Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess, will be moving from California to England. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
(0:00) Intro(1:52) Sahil Adeem Takes the Stage(3:13) Why Are You Really Here?(7:52) Why Everything Must Be Redefined Through Islam(9:32) Redefining Life Through the Lens of the Quran(10:57) Is Pakistan Really an “Islamic Republic”?(12:00) Imagine the Prophet ﷺ Entering Your Home(27:36) Muslim Women, Technology, and Developing Intelligence(31:01) Are We Truly Developing Our Children's Minds?(47:37) Why Sahil Adeem Places Hope in the Pashtuns(49:30) What Really Makes a Nation Powerful?(53:48) How the Quran Transforms a Person(58:24) Why Muslims Struggle With an Inferiority Complex(1:04:47) What Religious Action Really Means(1:14:58) Why Are Muslims Still Afraid?(1:34:39) Western Culture and the Muslim Identity Crisis(1:44:35) Palestine, Muslim Responsibility, and Difficult Questions(1:54:40) How Childhood Conditioning Shapes Identity(2:13:59) How Parents Shape a Child's Entire Belief System(2:34:09) How National Identity Is Taught During Childhood(2:37:23) Pakistan's National Heroes vs. Islamic Identity(2:44:37) What Does the Quran Say About Nations and Identity?(2:54:42) Why There Can Be No Compromise on Muslim Identity(3:00:08) Why Muslims Lack a Clear Collective Identity(3:05:24) Gaza, Palestine, and the Problem of National Identity(3:24:45) The Quran, Seerah, and Religious Authority(3:34:39) Why We Teach Everything Except Deep Quranic Thinking(3:55:00) Final Questions and Closing Discussion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Subscribe now for an ad-free experience and all of our episodes. Danny and Derek bring you the headlines against their better judgment. In this week's news: Western Europe and the U.S. set new temperature records (2:05); in Iran, the Islamic Republic demands reparations and sanctions relief before reopening the Strait of Hormuz (4:22), Trump declares that the U.S. will keep control of the Strait (8:20), and Iran makes a wave of hardline appointments (10:25); in Yemen, Houthi forces strike a cargo ship in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait (13:02); Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey form a new defense alliance (15:00); Netanyahu rejects Hamas's disarmament plan as the Board of Peace agreement collapses (18:11), plus Israeli settlers besiege a Palestinian American family's home in a West Bank village (19:48); a Syrian court sentences Bashar al-Assad to death (in absentia) for war crimes (22:19); a new UN report finds that violence against civilians rises in Myanmar (23:43); in Darfur, the Sudanese military and allied militias make key territorial gains against the RSF (25:49); Ukraine bombs the Russian port of Novorossiysk as tensions in the Black Sea push global food prices higher (28:23); Abelardo de la Espriella takes office as Colombia's new far-right president and joins the U.S.-backed Shield of the Americas (31:58); Trump secretly flees Turkey on a decoy aircraft amid reports of an Iranian assassination plot (34:06); and the Pentagon claims its Yemen strikes caused the only U.S.-inflicted civilian casualties of 2025 (37:31). Watch yesterday's livestream here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Danny and Derek bring you the headlines against their better judgment. In this week's news: Western Europe and the U.S. set new temperature records (2:05); in Iran, the Islamic Republic demands reparations and sanctions relief before reopening the Strait of Hormuz (4:22), Trump declares that the U.S. will keep control of the Strait (8:20), and Iran makes a wave of hardline appointments (10:25); in Yemen, Houthi forces strike a cargo ship in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait (13:02); Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey form a new defense alliance (15:00); Netanyahu rejects Hamas's disarmament plan as the Board of Peace agreement collapses (18:11), plus Israeli settlers besiege a Palestinian American family's home in a West Bank village (19:48); a Syrian court sentences Bashar al-Assad to death (in absentia) for war crimes (22:19); a new UN report finds that violence against civilians rises in Myanmar (23:43); in Darfur, the Sudanese military and allied militias make key territorial gains against the RSF (25:49); Ukraine bombs the Russian port of Novorossiysk as tensions in the Black Sea push global food prices higher (28:23); Abelardo de la Espriella takes office as Colombia's new far-right president and joins the U.S.-backed Shield of the Americas (31:58); Trump secretly flees Turkey on a decoy aircraft amid reports of an Iranian assassination plot (34:06); and the Pentagon claims its Yemen strikes caused the only U.S.-inflicted civilian casualties of 2025 (37:31).Watch yesterday's livestream here.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
In this segment Jimmy points out how dramatically Iran has shifted the strategic balance in the Middle East — now the Islamic Republic is tying the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to even more onerous demands, including complete U.S. withdrawal from the Persian Gulf, hundreds of billions in compensation, sanctions relief, and an end to all attacks. The discussion portrays the escalating attacks on tankers, Saudi oil infrastructure, Yemen, Iraq, Lebanon, and other regional targets as evidence that the conflict is spreading and that the United States faces growing pressure over energy markets and military resources. Jimmy also argue that Israel could further escalate the conflict by expanding operations in the West Bank and that broader regional tensions make a simple U.S.-Iran agreement increasingly difficult. He concludes by portraying the situation as a major strategic setback for Donald Trump and warning that even if oil could be re-routed away from the Strait of Hormuz, that would do nothing about fertilizer, helium, uranium, and other critical commodity supplies. Plus segments on TPUSA producer Blake Neff's shocking tweet unwittingly exposing how the organization benefits from Charlie Kirk's assassination and an interview with Dr. Pierre Kory and his attorney Richard Jaffe about a major legal victory for medical freedom. Also featuring Stef Zamorano!
Is President Trump's strategy slowly breaking Iran's regime, or giving Tehran time to recover? Ruthie Blum and Mark Regev examine the growing debate over Trump's approach to Iran, including economic pressure, the blockade of Iranian ports, the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear ambitions, rising oil prices, and the possibility of renewed military action. Could a prolonged war of attrition weaken the Islamic Republic, or was stopping short of decisive victory a dangerous mistake? Then, the conversation turns to Gaza: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rejection of a proposed 15-point plan, reports of restraint by the IDF, Hamas's refusal to disarm, and the possibility of private understandings between Trump and Netanyahu. Is Trump playing the long game, or allowing a dangerous regime to survive? Let us know what you think in the comments!
Today's top stories, with context, in just 15 minutes. On today's podcast: 1) President Donald Trump hardened his stance toward Iran as negotiations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz continue, pronouncing that the Islamic Republic must pay reparations for past attacks. Trump made his sweeping new demands on Monday after accusing Tehran of itself seeking compensation for war damages through public statements even though the issue had never been raised in negotiations.2) President Donald Trump renewed his administration’s efforts to dismantle the childhood vaccination schedule with a direct attack on the measles shot, returning to a politically unpopular issue and making unproven scientific claims just months ahead of the midterm elections.3) Intel Corp. raised $20 billion in an upsized share sale, a third more than it was targeting when it announced the deal Monday morning.The chipmaker priced the offering at $95 per share, according to a company statement. That represents a discount of 6.5% to Friday’s closing price, according to Bloomberg calculations. The share sale drew more than $100 billion in demand, people familiar with the matter said.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that Israel “rejects” the Board of Peace Gaza disarmament roadmap. At the same time, Israel has essentially paused strikes on the Strip and there are reports that the premier and defense minister okayed a pilot reconstruction project in Rafah. Berman tries to separate rhetoric from facts on the ground. What is and is not in the defense pact that was signed last week by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, wedding Sunni Muslim US allies -- and is it even defensive in nature? Berman explains why Israel should not be alarmed by the declaration, what it may mean for the region and what role these countries in particular want to play in it. US President Donald Trump said Sunday that Washington was “low-keying” its approach to Iran and only “semi-negotiating” with the Islamic Republic, as it suffers in dire economic straits. Could not acting really be the best play right now? Berman weighs in. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Netanyahu rejects Trump’s 15-point Gaza plan, insists he can stand up to US president Board of Peace envoy says full execution of Gaza plan only ‘guarantee’ Oct. 7 won’t recur Iran claims Saudi-Pakistan-Turkey deal shows ‘change in perception’ towards US Trump says US ‘low-keying’ Iran conflict, giving economic pressure time to work Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Content Warning This episode of Doin time contains audio images of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have died and graphic discussion of deaths in custody. On this week's show you first heard an interview with David Glanz fromthe Refugee Action Collective about its latest media release, "Football players need a level playing field and so do all Iranian refugees". We discussed Rac's call along with other refugeeorganisations for the Government to grant permanent protection for all asylum seekers fleeing the the Islamic Republic of Iran. Finally, we had a big yarn with Kelly Flanigan, First nations Acitivist and member of Figjam Collective and Karen Fletcher ceo of Flat out about the Victorian Government's Correction Amendment Bill 2026 "No air in prison bill" which overrides the Victorian Human rights Charter. Kelly's lived experience of prison and her trauma about fresh air being taken away from her was also discussed. The Victorian Charter of Human rightswas discussed in more detail.
Donald Trump is holding off on any further military action against Iran in the hope of striking a diplomatic breakthrough to end the war - but is he wasting his time?For this bonus episode of Iran: the Latest, Venetia Rainey speaks to Iranian-American entrepreneur and former refugee Payam Zamani. He argues that the Iranian regime cannot be trusted and that the West repeatedly misunderstands the Islamic Republic, which is built on martyrdom, brutality and religious fanaticism. Payam knows this from experience. Born into a Baha'i family in 1970s Tehran, he was repeatedly persecuted and eventually fled Iran on foot after being chased out of school by a violent mob. He offers a rare insider look at how the Islamic Republic operates by looking at how it crushes minorities and any dissent. HighlightsWhy Trump can't trust Iran: the fatal flaw in any peace dealIRGC brutality, being a Baha'i and escaping Iran with Payam Zamani CONTRIBUTORS:Venetia Rainey, co-host and executive producer @venetiaraineyPayam Zamani, CEO/founder One Planet Group @PayamZamaniWATCH US ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJnf_DDTfIVAif-vifC6F2aoPB8GIw6dkWinner Best News and Analysis Podcast - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026Nominated Podcast of the Year - Society of Editors News Podcasts Awards 2026Nominated Best News, Politics and Current Affairs - British Podcast Awards 2026The Telegraph, Winner Podcast Publisher of the Year 2026 - Publisher Podcast Awards 2026Producer: Peter ShevlinVideo Producer: Max BowerResearcher and Social Producer: Anna HindmarshStudio Operator: Andy WatsonExecutive Producer: Venetia Rainey ► Sign up to our most popular newsletter, From the Editor. Look forward to receiving free-thinking comment and the day's biggest stories, every morning. telegraph.co.uk/fromtheeditor► EMAIL US: Contact the team on battlelines@telegraph.co.uk► GET THE LATEST HEADLINES: Find all our latest Iran coverage here: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/iran-war/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What drives conservative ideology vs. the endless "burn it down" rage of the far-left democratic socialists? Andrew and Blake talks about how much can be traced back to the distinct attitudes of two revolutions, the American and the French. Then, they talk to Todd Nettleton about one of the world's fastest-growing Christian communities — the one hidden within the Islamic Republic of Iran. Then it's time for an hour of subscriber questions about President Trump's new EO trying to check birthright citizenship, how Charlie found time to read the Bible, and more. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What drives conservative ideology vs. the endless "burn it down" rage of the far-left democratic socialists? Andrew and Blake talks about how much can be traced back to the distinct attitudes of two revolutions, the American and the French. Then, they talk to Todd Nettleton about one of the world's fastest-growing Christian communities — the one hidden within the Islamic Republic of Iran. Then it's time for an hour of subscriber questions about President Trump's new EO trying to check birthright citizenship, how Charlie found time to read the Bible, and more. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
AmirAli is a philosophy researcher in Iran who tries to make Islamic philosophy speak to and with the West. We hear about doing philosophy in the "Islamic Republic of Iran," life during wartime, the relationship between play and philosophy, Islamic philosophy in Arabic vs. Persian, Amanah ("sacred trust"), philosophy as empathy, plus the Dream Police and fun with imperialism. Hear more at philosophyimprov.com. Support the podcast and listen ad-free at patreon.com/philosophyimprov. Sponsor: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code IMPROV at oneskin.co/IMPROV.
Welcome to The Times of Israel's Lazar Focus. Each Friday, join host diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe. On the three major fronts with which Israel is contending, there has been some progress on the diplomatic front -- with the caveat that not everyone believes that is a good thing. Lazar and Gabriella Jacobs look at the latest in each of the three theaters -- Iran, Lebanon, and Gaza. On Monday, President Donald Trump -- having called off a major joint strike with Israel -- said the US and Iran were in the midst of talks that could see the Strait of Hormuz fully reopened. Lazar argued that because of the November midterms and pressure from Gulf allies, Trump clearly doesn't want to go back to war, and Iran knows it. Tehran is not afraid of another major US campaign, and continues to raise its demands. The diplomatic process in Lebanon is more promising. Israel and Lebanon met in Rome for the seventh round of direct talks this week. Though Lebanon wants Israel to pull its troops back more quickly, the US is not about to pressure Israel to do so. Despite a bloody week in southern Lebanon in which two Israeli soldiers were killed, as well as several Lebanese, the two sides still met. At the same time, Lazar said, this process isn't about to disarm Hezbollah across the country. Major changes will need to take place within Lebanon for Hezbollah to decide that it has failed in its four-decade-long quest to destroy Israel through violence. The Trump Administration and Board of Peace are claiming progress in Gaza, as they convince Hamas to sign on to a new disarmament roadmap. Israel has not ratified it, and insists it will continue to confront active threats. Indeed, Israeli strikes early in the week clearly frustrated mediators. Still, Lazar noted, officials tell him that noticeable restraint from the IDF is helpful, and there is cautious optimism coming from the Board of Peace. Gabriella asked if the three diplomatic processes are linked. Lazar explained that Iran has been trying to unify the fronts against Israel, and situate itself as the arbiter of what happens in Lebanon, and maybe someday, in Gaza. Israel has successfully de-linked the fronts, while stressing that if the Islamic Republic falls, Hezbollah and Hamas are likely to follow. Lazar Focus can be found on all podcast platforms. This episode was produced by Gabriella Jacobs and video edited by Ari Schlacht.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A week ago, President Trump seemed to have decided to hit the Islamic Republic of Iran hard – to destroy what's left of its missile arsenals, its military-industrial base, its command-and-control headquarters and perhaps the commanders themselves. Then the President heard that Iran's rulers were finally ready to make a deal. Soon after, Iran's rulers announced they were not. President Trump called that “unbelievably duplicitous.” FDD's Reuel Marc Gerecht and Behnam Ben Taleblu join host Cliff May to discuss where the conflict stands and what would be the best way forward.
Haaretz senior defense columnist Amos Harel joins the Haaretz Podcast to discuss Trump's latest U-turn on Iran, from threatening to bomb the country's infrastructure to once again negotiating with the Islamic Republic over reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Does the president have a plan, or is he just responding to pressure from different directions? How likely is a resumption of full-scale war between Tehran and Jerusalem? And is there truly a lack of interceptors protecting Israel from Iranian missiles? Amos answers all these questions, as we await the president's next step. Meanwhile in Gaza, a new agreement has been announced by the Board of Peace, the international body overseeing the coastal enclave's painfully slow recovery. On paper, it looks great: Hamas will voluntarily disarm, Israel will then withdraw from the areas it occupied after October 7, and reconstruction will move ahead at a faster pace. There's just one problem: No one believes the deal will actually be implemented, and the two sides are already disagreeing over its content and interpretation. Harel and guest host Amir Tibon will discuss the chances for success there, and also the growing danger of escalation in the West Bank after another wave of violent attacks by extremist settlers against Palestinian villages. At what point will the Palestinian population, and perhaps some of the Palestinian Authority's security forces, respond in kind to those attacks and throw the whole region into another round of fighting? And is such a scenario a foregone conclusion, or can it still be avoided? Read more on Haaretz.com The Art of the Deal – or the Art of Bullshit? Trump's Wariness of Another Iran War Hormuz Deal Would Hand Iran an Unprecedented Geopolitical Victory How Much Longer Can Lebanon Withstand Israeli and Hezbollah Obstruction? How Netanyahu Convinced Trump's Board of Peace to Rewrite Its Gaza Deal With HamasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Once again, Darrell Castle discusses war but with a little diplomacy and an historical reminder that technology constantly changes but human nature never changes. Transcription / Notes THE HUMILIATION FACTOR Hello, this is Darrell Castle with today's Castle Report. This is Friday the 7th day of August in the year of our Lord 2026. I'm afraid my beat is war once again but with a little diplomacy and an historical reminder that technology constantly changes but human nature never changes. For the history lesson I have to go back to December 7th, 1941, and perhaps even a few days before that. This story is important because of the title to this report but also because yesterday, August 6 was the 81st anniversary of the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima Japan. The United States was engaged in diplomacy with Japan regarding Japan's invasion of China and Roosevelt's refusal to sell them more oil until they left China. The Japanese had to import virtually all their raw materials and they got oil primarily from the U.S. The Japanese had behaved so horribly in China that Roosevelt tried to persuade the Europeans to join him in a conditional boycott but they refused so he decided to do it himself. If you want to know more about how the Japanese behaved in China I recommend Iris Chang's book “The Rape of Nanchang, The Forgotten Holocaust of World War ll. Well, at least the two sides were talking to each other through diplomats around a conference table in Washington D.C. The Japanese knew that if the U.S. continued to refuse to sell them oil they would have to get it by conquering the oil and rubber rich nations of the South Pacific so they made plans to do just that. Those nations could not be conquered with the U.S. Navy at large in the Pacific so Japan's plan included that Navy's destruction in an attack we know as Pearl Harbor. Admiral Yamamoto, commander of the Japanese Fleet, had given orders that a war warning had to given to the American diplomats about one hour before the attack but delays of various kinds caused the warning to be delivered one hour after battleship row was burning. The Japanese believed that when the decadent, luxury loving, American people were confronted with this debacle they would demand that their leaders negotiate a way out of it. There were an awful lot of American members of Congress and the Senate who were in office because they were opposed to fighting European wars. There was an America first contingent which measured about 140 members. How could any nation so divided muster the will to fight a long bloody war, but the Japanese were catastrophically wrong in their assessment. Immediately after the attack the America first group voted to disband. Charles Linberg, the most outspoken and most famous antiwar advocate tried to join the Army Air Corps. Men lined up around the block in every city in America. School boys lied about their age to enlist. Keep in mind that in Japan every radio receiver in every military unit was tuned to American broadcasts in order to discern the mood of the people. Military transcriptionists took down every word of every broadcast and on December 8th at 12:30 PM they were turned in for FDR's speech. He spoke for only 6 minutes and none of it was a call for patience or negotiation but instead he called it a day that will live in infamy. The American people and the President were fueled to righteous anger by the deceptive nature of it. The term sneak attack was on everyone's lips and worse because it happened while the two sides were negotiating. That's a long history report, folks, but there is a reason for it. The reason is that another sneak attack, conducted while the two sides were negotiating has now happened. The anger, the determination to fight on no matter how long it took that fueled American resolve is now being felt by citizens of The Islamic Republic of Iran. Yes American diplomats were negotiating with Iranian diplomats when the U.S, and Israeli bombers struck. The attack didn't just destroy Iranian military targets, but it killed their supreme leader and almost his whole family including his 14-month-old granddaughter. The next day American bombs struck a girls school and around 160 little girls were killed but just to make sure it was hit again. How are these people supposed to feel about negotiating with America to end this war. How can they be expected to ever trust an American's word again. The problem continues almost daily as U.S. negotiators, if there are any besides the president, continue to go back on their word which is diplomat speak for lying. For example, the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding the president announced the other day called for Iran to control the Strait of Hormuz. The next day the president reneged on that point. I read someone the other day and I can't remember who said it, but he said President Trump should get the Nobel Peace Prize because he has ended the Iran War 7 times and number 8 is coming soon. Think about the mindset that the U.S. sneak attack must have created in the minds of the Iranian people. Before it happened there did seem to be a lot of unrest and a lot of division. People were in the streets protesting the harsh measures of the regime and that regime proceeded to kill thousands of them. I imagine the President was told that his sneak attack would have the same effect on the Iranian people that the Japanese thought Pearl Harbor would have on the American people. Both those assumptions were catastrophically wrong. Instead of causing the Iranian people to riot and overthrow their government it brought them together. The hated Mullahs were once again respected leaders. Thousands attended the Ayatollah's funeral. I think it was Mark Twain who said history doesn't repeat itself but it rhymes. Now the situation is so much worse for the U.S. and of course for Israel which was, apparently, the reason for the sneak attack. The Strait is at least a very dangerous place and ships can't sail without extreme danger. The entire world's economy teeters on the brink of depression. Oil and other needed mineral resources are soaring in price since about 20% of them have to pass through that chokehold. Meanwhile the President has announced a new deal being brokered by his Board of Peace involving peace in Gaza. The lynch pin would require Hamas, a terrorist group financed by Iran, to give up its arms and identify all its tunnels etc. In other words, Hamas would cease to exist and Israel would leave Gaza so that the U.S. and the Middle East members of the Board such as the Saudis and the Gulf States could rebuild it and everyone would prosper. The moment the deal was announced Netanyahu said the President sent it to him and he didn't like it. He said Israel would not leave Gaza until Hamas completely disarmed and Hamas Says it will not disarm until Israel leaves. Qatar is apparently kicking Hamas out of its country and rumors have it moving its operations to Turkey which is apparently the President's hope for the role of ensuring Middle East peace. My point in all this is that it is humiliating and embarrassing, or it should be. This country is supposed to be trusted because we have laws and rules, and we are supposed to stand for something. There are things we simply will never do and financing another country's crimes is one of those things. The first law of the land of course is the Constitution because it says it is the supreme law of the land. It restricts the power of leaders and they all take an oath to it but for most that means nothing. The standard of completely disarmed is virtually impossible to know or measure and that leaves the door open for this conflict to continue indefinitely. In the meantime, Reuters reports that the U.S. has expended more than 80% of its antimissile defense missiles. The Iranians are very smart people and they have been for a long time. They just keep putting missiles into U.S. bases and into Israel knowing that only a few will get through but it requires the U.S. to expend its supply and what then. The President announces what turns out to be a temporary halt to bombing, I guess. The U.S. position with regard to Israel and the Middle East is indefensible and I guess that's why they no longer try to defend it. The attitude seems to be the old one made famous by Baghdad Bob. You are not seeing this so just move on because everything is fine. I chose humiliation as the title of this Report because it is humiliating for a great nation to force people to pay for their own destruction. A foreign nation somehow persuades the U.S. to give it money so it can use that money to buy U.S. politicians who will then vote to fund its expansionist wars. I'll close this report on our humiliation with a few words from old friend and economist Bill Bonner. “No matter how cynical you are, its probably not enough. Perhaps Donald Trump is playing a different game altogether. He marshalls DOGE to cut spending but does not actually cut a dime out of the swollen federal budget. He makes grand theater out of tariffs but trade deficits continue unmolested. No more foreign wars, he pledges and then attacks Iran.” Finally, folks, the way out of this seems very difficult to bear but wouldn't it be better to quit now so we can manage the withdrawal rather than wait until we are forced out. The Iran War was a mistake we should admit and we are sorry we made it. We are especially sorry for those Iranian school girls and we will pay compensation to their families. It's the same decision made by the French after Dein Bin Phu when we decided to take up their war. At least that's the way I see it, Until next time folks, This is Darrell Castle, Thanks for listening.
A week ago, President Trump seemed to have decided to hit the Islamic Republic of Iran hard – to destroy what's left of its missile arsenals, its military-industrial base, its command-and-control headquarters and perhaps the commanders themselves. Then the President heard that Iran's rulers were finally ready to make a deal. Soon after, Iran's rulers announced they were not. President Trump called that “unbelievably duplicitous.” FDD's Reuel Marc Gerecht and Behnam Ben Taleblu join host Cliff May to discuss where the conflict stands and what would be the best way forward.
Iran's nuclear program is now more than seven decades old, stretching from the Shah's ambitious Atoms for Peace-era plans to the Islamic Republic's pursuit of enrichment, missile capability and nuclear latency. Iran historian Farzan Sabet joins Decouple to explain how energy development, techno-nationalism, the trauma of the Iran–Iraq War and a persistent sense of strategic isolation transformed a civilian nuclear project into an increasingly important national-security instrument.We trace the program through the Shah's plans for 23,000MW of commercial nuclear power, the revolution, the AQ Khan network, the AMAD weapons effort, the JCPOA and the collapse of Iran's traditional deterrence architecture. Farzan also examines the extraordinary price Iran has paid: sanctions-related economic damage measured in the hundreds of billions of dollars and, by one estimate, comparable to the economic cost of the Iran–Iraq War, yet with neither substantial nuclear power generation nor a nuclear deterrent to show for it.Listen to Decouple on:• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6PNr3ml8nEQotWWavE9kQz• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/decouple/id1516526694?uo=4• Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1516526694/decouple• Pocket Casts: https://pca.st/ehbfrn44• RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/23775178/podcast/rssWebsite: https://www.decouple.media
In this episode, Jian opens with the essay Survival Is Not Victory, challenging the growing narrative that the Islamic Republic has somehow emerged triumphant. While the regime remains in power, many of the underlying conditions that fueled the largest uprising in decades - economic collapse, repression, corruption and widespread public frustration - have only intensified. Joining Jian are Lisa Daftari and Shayan Samii for a wide-ranging conversation on Iran's political future, the IRGC's expanding role, international diplomacy, the opposition movement, and why the story of Iran is far from over. This episode is brought to you with the support of: Avoca Chocolates - https://avocachocolates.com (@avocachocolates) Thank you for listening and for supporting independent media.
Today's top stories, with context, in just 15 minutes.On today's podcast:1) Iran said it had reached an agreement with Oman on a proposed route for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a potential step toward a reopening of the critical waterway for energy supplies. A joint statement from Tehran and Muscat is under review and in the final drafting stage, with Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei saying negotiations between the two countries are “forward-moving” and a deal would be struck “if certain third parties do not obstruct this process." Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran and Oman are negotiating a “temporary route” that would remain active for two to four months, with a significant portion of traffic passing through the Islamic Republic’s territorial waters.2) President Trump denied the US was running low on munitions, saying the country has “massive amounts” of them. Trump warned of punishment for those who say there’s a shortage, saying “leakers” of supposed “treasonous statements” are being pursued. The Pentagon’s request for emergency funding includes money to replace the US’s most advanced Patriot interceptors and other systems, amid concerns about weapons stockpiles.3) President accused Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed of being a “communist” who “hates” Jews and Israel. El-Sayed has accused the Israeli government of carrying out a “genocide” during its war in Gaza, supports cutting off aid to Israel and has questioned its right to exist as a Jewish state. Trump said El-Sayed’s brand of politics would bring “filth, crime, death, destruction, embarrassment” and that El-Sayed is a “man of hate."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Business and finance news from the Asia-Pacific. The yen held steady through the New York trading session on Monday, after a sharp advance earlier in the day that sparked speculation authorities may have intervened to support the currency again after last week's coordinated action between the US and Japan. Meantime, US and Japanese officials warned investors they're determined to keep defending the yen after jolting currency markets with their first joint intervention in 15 years. Bloomberg's Shery Ahn spoke to Shusuke Yamada, Chief Japan FX and Rates Strategist at BofA Global Research. Plus - President Donald Trump said his latest offer of talks is a "last chance" for Iran after he called off what he said was a major attack on the Islamic Republic. Iran denied it was negotiating with the US, but said talks with Oman to get more ships moving through the Strait of Hormuz are making progress. Bloomberg's Shery Ahn spoke to Mona Yacoubian, CSIS Director and Middle East Program Senior Adviser.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US President Donald Trump said Sunday night that negotiations with Iran would begin on Monday to finalize a deal that reopens the Strait of Hormuz after he again called off a major attack on the Islamic Republic over the weekend. For its part, Iran denies any talks are set to take place. Berman analyzes the current stalemate as Trump appears to adopt a "Saudi-first policy" in his approach to prosecuting the Iran war and the Israelis are left in the dark. What creative approaches could change the balance? Board of Peace Gaza envoy Nickolay Mladenov on Sunday lamented continued Israeli strikes in Gaza that “have killed civilians and destroyed medical supplies that people depend on,” days after the body reached a disarmament deal with the Hamas terror organization that would also see Israel withdraw from the Strip. Why is official Israel still silent on the deal? Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: Trump says talks with Iran will start Monday on deal to reopen Hormuz Board of Peace envoy laments recent Gaza strikes amid effort to implement Trump plan Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today's top stories, with context, in just 15 minutes. On today's podcast: 1) Iran suggested negotiations to get more ships moving through the Strait of Hormuz are making progress, after President Donald Trump called off what he said was a major attack on the Islamic Republic. Oil fell on Monday, with Brent crude down about 4.5% to just over $83 a barrel, after Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said discussions between Tehran and Oman over management of the strait are in the final stages. Trump said Sunday that a deal to open the waterway may be close and that new unspecified talks with Iran would begin on Monday. 2) Stocks and bonds rose as the latest sign of easing tensions between the US and Iran pushed oil prices lower, allaying concerns about faster inflation. S&P 500 futures added 0.5%, signaling a positive start to a week awash with key economic data and corporate earnings. Brent crude slid as much as 7.3% to $81.55 a barrel after President Donald Trump called off a planned attack on Iran. Treasuries rose across the curve, with the benchmark 10-year yield dropping four basis points to 4.69%. 3) The US and Japan’s first joint action on the yen in 15 years, with warnings they won’t “hesitate” to move again, has underscored their unprecedented determination to defend the Asian currency. It’s still unclear how much Washington spent to help lift the yen from its four-decade low. But the currency’s rebound points at interventions larger than in 1998 and 2011, when US contributions didn’t surpass the $1 billion mark. Japan alone is estimated to have spent $53 billion on Thursday — a likely single-day record.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to The Daily Wrap Up, an in-depth investigatory show dedicated to bringing you the most relevant independent news, as we see it, from the last 24 hours (8/2/26). As always, take the information discussed in the video below and research it for yourself, and come to your own conclusions. Anyone telling you what the truth is, or claiming they have the answer, is likely leading you astray, for one reason or another. Stay Vigilant. !function(r,u,m,b,l,e){r._Rumble=b,r[b]||(r[b]=function(){(r[b]._=r[b]._||[]).push(arguments);if(r[b]._.length==1){l=u.createElement(m),e=u.getElementsByTagName(m)[0],l.async=1,l.src="https://rumble.com/embedJS/u2q643"+(arguments[1].video?'.'+arguments[1].video:'')+"/?url="+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+"&args="+encodeURIComponent(JSON.stringify([].slice.apply(arguments))),e.parentNode.insertBefore(l,e)}})}(window, document, "script", "Rumble"); Rumble("play", {"video":"v7bg38e","div":"rumble_v7bg38e"}); Source Links (In Chronological Order): (1) John Ziegler on X: "RT @atrupar: BASH: How do you prepare for the next pandemic? That's part of your job now RFK Jr: We did almost everything wrong BASH: But…" / X New Tab (1) tinfoilhatgirl82 on X: "Wow. Talk about low information voter. Do these people interact with the general public. If they did they wouldn't say stupid shit like this" / X (1) The Last American Vagabond on X: "RFK Jr. says he wants people to get the MMR vaccine: https://t.co/tfObQSteCW" / X (2) Shannon on X: "When the Democrats take power, the Republicans will suddenly be concerned about the debt. Bookmark this." / X New Tab Spain's Weaponized/Engineered Migration, Trump Flounders In Iran & The Coming Third Party Deception La Guardia Civil detecta a agentes de inteligencia de Marruecos entre los migrantes que se colaron en Ceuta A look at Israel's decades-long covert intelligence ties with Morocco | The Times of Israel Israel-Morocco defense deal opens door to intel sharing, joint drills | The Times of Israel Israel and Morocco bolster cybersecurity and intel ties - Israel & Jewish News - JNS Morocco and Israel will collaborate on military intelligence systems Morocco, Israel agree to expand military cooperation | Africanews (2) coloradokid233@gmail on X: "@TLAVagabond @Lukewearechange The young turks was talking about this last night, I cam recommend!" / X (2) Nhawk2174 on X: "@TLAVagabond @Lukewearechange No he didn't" / X Your Deleted Shit Is Not Deleted, and Australian Cops Now Use Israeli Spyware to Prove It New Tab (2) The Last American Vagabond on X: "Now why does this feel so familiar? #ICE" / X (3) Jesus Freakin Congress on X: "
C Constable reports from France on the high heat and smoke impact near Bordeaux. The discussion shifts to surging energy prices, with Brent crude rising 26% and European gas up 36%. Despite high energy costs, rising copper prices suggest potential industrial growth. (1)Simon Constable and Jim McTague continue with a quiz highlighting that typical data centers use 300,000 gallons of water daily, while larger ones can reach 5 million gallons. Currently, most centers are urban, but 67% of planned facilities are rural. In Lancaster County, a "tale of two data centers" emerges as one town embraces the revenue stream while another resists it due to misinformation and fear. (2)Cliff May argues for maximum pressure and coercive diplomacy to prevent the Islamic Republic of Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He advocates for a naval blockade, specifically targeting oil exports from Kharg Island to strangle the regime's revenue. May emphasizes that the Iranian leadership's ideology makes them likely to use nuclear weapons, necessitating a strategy to cripple the regime's power. (3)John Hardie and Bill Roggio cover the significant leadership change in Ukraine as General Drapatyi replaces General Syrskyi as commander-in-chief. Drapatyi is seen as a representative of a new, western-style generation of officers who embrace technological innovation and listen to subordinates. The transition aims to "desovietize" the military and maintain the momentum of successful drone offensives against Russian infrastructure. (4)Anatol Lieven examines how the Ukraine and Iran conflicts are merging into one global struggle following a Ukrainiandrone strike on an Iranian vessel. This escalation threatens global energy supplies of refined oil products, as Russianrefineries struggle with capacity. While Ukraine targets the Russian middle class to undermine support for the war, Lieven warns of a widening proxy war involving China, North Korea, and Iran. (5)Anatol Lieven turns to Britain's new political era under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who is described as the Labour Party's "last chance" to address a discredited government. Burnham faces immense financial pressure, particularly regarding the costs of healthcare for the elderly and dementia. To succeed, he may need to pivot from "Net Zero" policies to prioritize energy needs and seek a new mandate through an election. (6)Salvatore Vitale and Kalin Plunkett of MIT explain hierarchical merging, a process where black holes merge repeatedly to create larger "monsters." By analyzing gravitational waves from 155 binary pairs, they discovered that 14% are second-generation black holes, born from previous mergers rather than stellar collapse. These second-generation black holes are characterized by rapid spin and mass asymmetry, providing clues to how supermassive black holes form in galaxies. (7)Salvatore Vitale and Kalin Plunkett continue: to uncover the origins of the Milky Way's supermassive black hole, scientists propose building larger gravitational wave detectors scaled up by a factor of ten. These advanced observatories would allow researchers to peer further back into cosmic history, potentially detecting black holes from the very early universe. Expanding the global network to four or five detectors would help pinpoint host galaxies and detect the formation of heavy elements. (8)Arthur Herman recounts the historic 1896 meeting where Henry Ford pitched his internal combustion engine to a skeptical Thomas Edison. Edison's encouragement served as the catalyst for Ford's revolution in American transportation. This industrial transformation was further enabled by John D. Rockefeller, whose ability to lower oil prices made gasoline an economically feasible fuel for mass production. The segment also highlights George Washington's vision for a professional Continental Army. (9)Arthur Herman explains the American founders were heavily influenced by the Scottish Enlightenment, particularly the ideas of David Hume and Adam Smith regarding the pursuit of happiness. This subjective right was prioritized over property to potentially allow for the future abolition of slavery. The founding spirit extended to the Northwest Ordinance, creating communities like Marietta, Ohio, that were dedicated to education, religion, and freedom. (10)Arthur Herman characterizes Abraham Lincoln as a founder for his vision of an America without slavery and his willingness to risk the Union to fulfill the Declaration of Independence. His administration's legacy includes the Homestead Act and the Transcontinental Railroad, which expanded the "empire of liberty." Additionally, the Civil War era facilitated the rise of Andrew Carnegie, who later revolutionized the global steel industry using the Bessemerprocess. (11)Arthur Herman reframes the Gilded Age not as an era of greed, but as a period of unprecedented opportunity and connectivity driven by the railroad. James J. Hill's Great Northern Railway fostered regional prosperity and negotiated fairly with Native American tribes. Meanwhile, Thomas Edison's relentless competitiveness and "restless mind" led to the electrification of the nation and the invention of the phonograph, inspiring future generations of founders like Elon Musk. (12)Arthur Herman contrasts Woodrow Wilson's attempt to centrally manage industry during World War I, which resulted in logistical chaos and failure, with FDR's embrace of the private sector for World War II, appointing GM's Bill Knudsento lead mobilization. By relying on the incentives of the marketplace, Knudsen successfully converted American manufacturing into a massive war machine, producing more war material than the world imagined in just 18 months. (13)Arthur Herman presents Martin Luther King Jr. as a founder who refounded the American experiment by taking risks to fulfill the promise of equality. The segment explores the eternal conflict between the bold "founder mindset" and the cautious "manager instinct" that emerged in the 1950s. While managers seek stability and predictability, founders drive innovation and national greatness, preventing the American dream from becoming stagnant and stale. (14)Arthur Herman credits Vannevar Bush's "The Endless Frontier" manifesto with persuading FDR to fund basic scientific research through universities, laying the groundwork for Silicon Valley. This federal support enabled discoveries in information theory and microchip development, transforming the American economy. The evolution from massive mainframes like the IBM 360 to modern microchips illustrates the imaginative leap of founders who see opportunities where others see only current technology. (15)Arthur Herman concludes that today's founders, including Elon Musk and Donald Trump, continue the tradition of taking massive risks to fulfill bold visions. Musk's goals for SpaceX and Mars are described as a step-by-step process of industrial manufacturing and innovation. Central to this enduring success is the Patent Act of 1790, a unique constitutional protection that ensures individuals own the products of their minds, fueling 250 years of American discovery. (16)Corrections applied per the log: John Hardie (transcribed as "Hardy," segment 4) and Labour Party (UK spelling, segment 6). I also dropped the phonetic "(Chopati)" after General Drapatyi in segment 4 — that's Mykhailo Drapatyi, so the first spelling stands. One to confirm for the log: Kalin Plunkett (segments 7–8) — I couldn't verify this MIT researcher's spelling; if it's from audio, it may need checking against the MIT LIGO group roster.
Mary Kissel notes diplomatic efforts with Iran currently involve "shuttling messages" through intermediaries like Omanand Qatar. Kissel argues that the Islamic Republic is a revolutionary regime with no interest in genuine strategic peace. The administration's lack of a cohesive strategy has led to declining public support for military action. Meanwhile, the Houthi threat in the Red Sea remains a dangerous Iranian-backed tool for disrupting international shipping. (5)
SCHEDULE THE MAKING OF THE JOHN BATCHELOR SHOW, 7-28-26.1900 IDAHOLiz Peek reports the US economy remains robust, driven by strong consumer spending in rural areas like Connecticutand Lancaster County. Peek highlights rising small business and consumer confidence despite increasing gasoline prices. Attention shifts to new Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, who may end "dot plot" forecasting. Warsh aims to be more "taciturn," forcing markets to rely on incoming data rather than Fed projections. (1)Liz Peek examines the Michigan Democratic Senate primary as a national test for the party's ideological direction. Moderate Haley Stevens faces Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a candidate favored by the Democratic Socialists of America. Peek notes the "shocker" UAW endorsement of El-Sayed, highlighting a shift toward "woke" politics among union members in higher education. This race evaluates if a far-left candidate can win a statewide swing-state contest. (2)Thaddeus McCotter and Judy Dempsey discuss Ukraine's strike on an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea, which complicates global energy security for Europe. This inland sea is a vital source of non-Russian energy. Dempsey reports that Germany is carefully observing the implications of this new front. The strike underscores the deep military connection between Russia and Iran regarding equipment exchanges. Meanwhile, recent polls show seven out of ten Americans oppose the Iran war. (3)Thaddeus McCotter and Judy Dempsey turn to a deadly ramming attack at a Berlin parade that has put Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the defensive regarding his security credentials. The populist AfD party is exploiting the tragedy to criticize "uncontrolled immigration" ahead of crucial state elections. While Merz responded with calls for law and order, the incident underscores the difficulty police face in monitoring numerous terrorist suspects. The AfD utilizes these crises to offer simple solutions. (4)Mary Kissel notes diplomatic efforts with Iran currently involve "shuttling messages" through intermediaries like Omanand Qatar. Kissel argues that the Islamic Republic is a revolutionary regime with no interest in genuine strategic peace. The administration's lack of a cohesive strategy has led to declining public support for military action. Meanwhile, the Houthi threat in the Red Sea remains a dangerous Iranian-backed tool for disrupting international shipping. (5)Mary Kissel observes President Zelenskyy is receiving a warmer reception in Washington due to Ukraine's increasing military leverage. Innovative long-range drone strikes on Russian energy nodes have demonstrated Ukraine's utility to USstrategic interests. Unlike the situation with Iran, the US maintains active diplomatic channels in Moscow to discuss potential conflict resolutions. Kissel notes that influential voices on the right are beginning to shift their views on Ukraine. (6)Jonathan Schanzer reports the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East are merging as Russia, Iran, and Chinacoordinate their efforts. Schanzer notes that Ukraine's Caspian Sea strike has clarified this global partnership. The US is currently attempting to "keep a lid" on Israel to prevent a regional escalation. However, the US military faces a depletion of missile interceptors, making it difficult to sustain a long, high-intensity conflict. (7)Jonathan Schanzer discusses new UK–US talks focused on a maritime coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has an opportunity to reset the relationship with Donald Trump. The Iranian-backed Houthi threat remains a top concern for global oil analysts and regional powers like Egypt. Meanwhile, the US is signaling that Lebanon is "too big to fail" to counter Hezbollah's regional influence. (8)Gregory Copley reports the Trump administration has imposed tariffs on Australia, alleging "forced labor" practices—a claim Copley describes as spurious. This move antagonizes a loyal ally that has fought alongside the US for over a century. Consequently, Australia and Canada are beginning to lessen their strategic dependence on the US. Copley warns that such unilateral protectionism could weaken the long-term structure of the Western alliance. (9)Gregory Copley describes Cuba's total implosion as its infrastructure collapses and major blackouts occur. Copley describes a strategic failure in the Caribbean, where China has built significant influence over the last 20 years. The USmust decide whether to facilitate a rapid collapse or a managed transition of the regime. While the Cuban people suffer, the wealthy expatriate community remains ready to fund reconstruction. (10)Gregory Copley reports Xi Jinping faces significant internal opposition from Communist Party elders at the Beidaiheretreat. Despite his titles, Xi's operational power is waning as the Chinese economy evaporates and social unrest grows. A recent ballistic missile launch served as a show of strength before a state visit to the US. Copley notes that youth unemployment is high, and the PLA may eventually act independently. (11)Gregory Copley turns to the UK, where following the rise of Prime Minister Andy Burnham, the country faces political uncertainty as Labour struggles with a lack of growth. Copley highlights King Charles III's vital role as a unifying force, focusing on British national identity and values. While the Burnham government is viewed as sclerotic and ideological, the King remains an egalitarian figure. His efforts to preserve heritage, like Dumfries House, bolster his standing. (12)Joseph Sternberg criticizes Prime Minister Andy Burnham's economic policy as ineffective against the cost-of-living crisis. Sternberg argues that the UK is trapped by net-zero regulations that prevent the use of vast North Sea oil and gas reserves. Burnham finds it politically difficult to cut taxes or reverse climate policies despite potential economic benefits. This paralysis makes his government a target for future replacement. (13)Joseph Sternberg notes Chairman Kevin Warsh is moving the Federal Reserve toward a "taciturn" style, ending the practice of "forward guidance." This reform aims to prevent the Fed from becoming locked into policies that may become inappropriate as data shifts. Sternberg suggests that saying less may protect the Fed from political conflict with the White House over tariffs. Markets must now interpret raw data rather than Fed signals. (14)Thaddeus McCotter describes the Michigan Democratic Senate primary as a "civil war" between establishment candidate Haley Stevens and progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed. The candidates are sharply divided over AIPAC funding and support for Israel. Stevens is endorsed by high-profile figures like Gretchen Whitmer and Barack Obama. The result will indicate if the Democratic Socialists of America can succeed in a statewide race in a swing state. (15)Thaddeus McCotter notes Dr. Abdul El-Sayed denies being a socialist, claiming he merely wants to regulate "capitalism run amok." However, his platform includes radical proposals such as abolishing ICE. Haley Stevens frames him as a "celebrity candidate" and questions his appeal to women voters. McCotter notes that while the DSA lacks a ground model, identity politics may drive a high turnout among Michigan's large Muslim population. (16)Corrections applied throughout as directed: Thaddeus McCotter and Liz Peek.
Since the conflict in Iran began in February, the results have been mixed. It has degraded Iran's nuclear capacity, reduced its missile arsenal, and sunk its navy. But the war has also closed the Strait of Hormuz, divided America's Gulf allies, fractured the U.S.-Israeli relationship, and failed to achieve objectives like regime change and nuclear elimination. A panel of Iran experts with different perspectives discuss whether the conflict could mark the end of the Islamic Republic's long strategy of proxy warfare or the beginning of a far more dangerous Middle East. Journalist and author Fareed Zakaria leads the conversation with Kim Ghattas, Karim Sadjadpour, and Mark Dubowitz. Ghattas is an Emmy-award winning journalist. Karim Sadjadpour is a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Mark Dubowitz is CEO of Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Their conversation was held June 29.
The Trump administration’s new nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia is raising alarms. Timothy Gardner of Reuters explains what’s missing and why Congress, Israel, and nonproliferation experts are worried. Trump is again threatening to strike Iranian civilian infrastructure if the Islamic Republic continues targeting ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The Hill reports. The Associated Press’s Matt O’Brien explains how an OpenAI model hacked another AI company without being given instructions to do so. Plus, a record number of people were placed in ICE detention last month, festivities to celebrate a new U.S.-Canada bridge were canceled amid new tariffs, and the Louvre reopened a gallery without its jewels nine months after a heist. Today’s episode was hosted by Gideon Resnick.
Wanna-be president New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani (D) released a video last night claiming that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a war criminal and called for his arrest after admitting he has no power to arrest Netanyahu. Glenn calls out the hypocrisy of Mamdani's statements after his team attempted to set up a meeting with the ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Glenn also calls out Mamdani for focusing on Israel when his own city is plagued with issues. Despite the Trump administration making moves to disassemble the ICC, Mamdani still called upon the agency to arrest Netanyahu next time he visits the country. What is the free market? Glenn defends free markets for lifting billions out of poverty through innovation and honest trade but lays out the requirements needed for the free market to thrive. Glenn reads a supportive message he received from one of his subscribers. Glenn recalls what life was like back in the 1970s and how much America has progressed. Glenn discusses the bizarre story of Bryan Johnson, who claims he has “cloned” himself. Glenn lays out what Johnson really did and how this feels like a horror science fiction movie. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of The PDB Description: Iran's government is facing a growing internal revolt as hardliners accuse President Masoud Pezeshkian of betraying the Islamic Republic, fueling fears that Tehran's own political infighting could derail any hopes for a lasting ceasefire with the United States. Taiwan is sounding the alarm after a sharp increase in Chinese coast guard and research vessels operating around the island, raising new concerns that Beijing may be expanding its pressure campaign into the Pacific. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Poncho Outdoors: Gear up for summer with Poncho and grab $10 off plus free shipping at https://ponchooutdoors.com/PDB Acre Gold: Turn your pocket change into physical 24-karat gold and enter to win a limited-edition Hot Wheels gold bar at https://GetAcreGold.com/PDB HomeServe: Protect your home systems from expensive repairs with https://HomeServe.com/dailybriefand get 50% off your first year of coverage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Diplomatic correspondent Lazar Berman joins host Amanda Borschel-Dan for today's episode. US forces struck Iran for a ninth consecutive day on Monday as the number of confirmed American military deaths in the renewed fighting rose to three, and concerns grew over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which the Trump administration accused the Islamic Republic of seeking to control “as leverage against the world.” Yesterday, Israel launched interceptors after fragments from Iranian missiles fired at Jordan’s southern city of Aqaba potentially threatened the nearby city of Eilat. We discuss why the Iranians are trying to keep Israel out of the fray and why US President Donald Trump has not asked the Jewish state to join in the fight. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is in Washington, DC, this week in the first trip to the US capital by a Lebanese head of state since Michel Sleiman was received by Barack Obama in 2009. Aoun is slated to meet with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday. We learn what is on the agenda and why Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was not invited. Check out The Times of Israel's ongoing liveblog for more updates. For further reading: US strikes Iran for 9th night, confirms American servicemember killed in Iraq IDF fires interceptors over Eilat as Iranian missiles target nearby Aqaba in Jordan At meeting in DC, Rubio lauds Lebanon president’s ongoing push to disarm Hezbollah Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Yitzhak Ledee filmed and edited this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of The PDB Afternoon Bulletin: • A stunning new investigation claims Israel spent years secretly cultivating former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as an intelligence asset—and even planned to install him as Iran's next leader if the Islamic Republic fell. • Britain accuses Iran of orchestrating attacks against Jewish targets across Europe through criminal proxies. Now, London is moving to ban Tehran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. To listen to the show ad-free, become a premium member of The President's Daily Brief by visiting https://PDBPremium.com. Please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of The President's Daily Brief. YouTube: youtube.com/@presidentsdailybrief Trust & Will: Estate planning doesn't have to be complicated—create your will or trust online in minutes with Trust & Will and get 20% off at https://trustandwill.com/PDB Ultra Pouches: Don't sleep on @ultrapouches. New customers get 15% Off with code PDB at https://takeultra.com ! #UltraPouches #ad Brunt Workwear: Get $10 Off at BRUNT with code PDB at https://www.bruntworkwear.com/PDB#Bruntpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Democrats are going after Ken Paxton for spending July 4th in England, and you need to see what James Talarico actually posted before the media spins it. In the Texas Senate race, Talarico called out Paxton for being in London during the 250th anniversary of American independence. He posted a video of Paxton there and claimed it was the last place any patriotic Texan should be that weekend. Talarico stayed in Texas and posed with Willie Nelson instead. While regular Americans were focused on family, barbecues, and making ends meet, political elites turned a personal trip into campaign ammo. The irony of attacking someone for being in the U.K. right after celebrating independence from Britain hasn't gone unnoticed. Pat also covered: Graham Platner drops out of the Maine race. Why Trump changed planes on his way to Turkey. James Talarico partners up to reach trans show attendees. Sara Gonzales joins to break down Texas politics. Smithsonian's American History Museum claims Mickey Mouse represents “blackface.” Do you think a politician's personal vacation should be fair game during campaign season? What's your take on Democrats lecturing anyone about patriotism right now? If you want unfiltered truth and common-sense analysis that cuts through the noise, hit subscribe and turn on notifications. 00:00 Pat Gray UNLEASHED! 00:25 Graham Platner DROPS OUT of Senate Race in Maine 03:00 Who's Going to Replace Graham Platner? 04:43 Air Force One Issues 08:00 Donald Trump: The Greatest Communist??? 11:42 Trump on NATO / Iran & Spain 16:45 President Trump Travels Heavy 21:01 Trump on the "Islamic Republic of Japan" 22:53 James Talarico VS. Ken Paxton 25:15 James Talarico Teams Up with Beto O'Rourke 26:23 James Talarico on COVID-19 Masks 30:07 Pat Checks In on Mitch McConnell 35:59 Fat Five 46:30 New AP Poll on Mamdani / Netanyahu 48:20 Pat Gray BINGO! Winner 50:49 Sara Gonzales Joins the Show! 1:05:15 Discussing Treasonous Americans 1:14:09 Is James Talarico the Antichrist? 1:16:27 The Smithsonian Director's Insane Historical Takes 1:21:32 DSA Members on "U.S. Imperialism" 1:22:48 Donald J. Trump International Airport 1:26:40 Updates on USMNT / FIFA World Cup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tonight on The Last Word: Maine Democrats can replace Graham Platner if he withdraws by July 13. And Donald Trump rants about the “Islamic Republic of Japan." Devon Murphy-Anderson, Rep. Chellie Pingree, and Rep. Madeleine Dean join Lawrence O'Donnell. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.