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- Tucker Carlson released a video addressing the war with Iran, arguing he was among the few who warned Washington weeks before the conflict began and that President Trump did not heed that warning. The discussion notes Tucker’s appearance in Washington with Trump and mentions supporters like JD Vance and Tulsi Gabbard. - Carlson’s framework for analyzing a major war is introduced as four questions: 1) Why did this happen? 2) What was the point of it? 3) Where does it go from here? 4) How do we respond? - On why this war happened, the speakers assert a simple answer: this happened because Israel wanted it to happen. The conflict is characterized as Israel’s war, not primarily for U.S. national security objectives, and not about weapons of mass destruction. The argument is made that the decision to engage was driven by Israel, with Benjamin Netanyahu demanding U.S. military action and pressuring the U.S. through multiple White House visits. - The speakers contend that many generals warned against the war due to insufficient military capacity, but those warnings were reportedly ignored as officials lied about capability and duration of a potential conflict. They claim there was no credible plan for replacing Iran’s government after a potential topple, highlighting concerns about Iran’s size, diversity, and the risk of regional chaos. - The discussion suggests a history of manipulation and misinformation, citing a 2002 exchange where Netanyahu allegedly pushed for regime change in Iran and noting Dennis Kucinich’s account that Netanyahu said the Americans had to do it. They argue this war is the culmination of a long-term strategy backed by Netanyahu. - On what the point of the war would be for Israel, the speakers say the objective is regional hegemony. Israel seeks to determine regional outcomes with minimal constraints, aiming to decapitate Iran to allow broader actions in the Middle East, including potential expansionist goals. They argue Iran’s nuclear program was used as a pretext, though they contend Iran was not imminently close to a nuclear weapon. - The role of regional players is examined, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states—Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman—and their strategic importance as energy producers and regional influencers. The speakers claim Israel and the U.S. sought to weaken or destabilize these Gulf states to reduce their capacity to counter Israel’s regional dominance and to push the U.S. out of the Middle East. - It is asserted that Netanyahu’s strategy would involve reducing American involvement, thereby weakening U.S. credibility as a security partner in the region. The claim is that the Gulf states have been left more vulnerable, with missile threats and disrupted energy infrastructure, and that Israel’s actions are designed to force the U.S. to withdraw from the region. - The speakers argue that Europe stands to suffer as well, notably through potential refugee inflows and disruptions to LNG supplies from Qatar; Europe’s energy security and economy could be adversely affected. - The discussion notes alleged Israeli actions in the Gulf, including reports of Mossad activity and bombings in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, though it is presented as part of a broader narrative about destabilization and its costs. - The potential consequences outlined include cascading chaos in Iran, refugee crises in Europe, and a weakened United States as an ally in the Middle East. The speakers predict long-term strategic losses for Europe, the Gulf states, and the U.S. - The discussion concludes with a warning that, if Israel achieves its aims to decapitate Iran, the region could destabilize further, potentially triggering broader geopolitical shifts. A final reference is made to Naftali Bennett portraying Turkey as the new threat, illustrating ongoing great-power competition in the region. - The overall message emphasizes truthfulness in reporting, critiques of media narratives, and the view that Western audiences have been propagandized into seeing Middle East conflicts as moral battles rather than power dynamics between competing states.

The documentary traces Benjamin Netanyahu’s career through a web of security crises, personal power, and ongoing legal jeopardy, arguing that his decisions have been driven by a perceived need to survive corruption investigations while mobilizing fear and factional support to stay in power. It begins with a stark claim: nothing concentrates Netanyahu’s mind like the sound of the prison gate, and that his actions over the last five years were focused on that possibility, with the corruption trial becoming a dominant factor in decision making. The engine, according to interviewees, is the corruption cases, and Netanyahu’s attitude toward the law, with “Anyone that dare to touch mister Netanyahu is doomed.” After October 7, the war became another instrument to stay in power. Several speakers observe that Netanyahu survived in a state of war, in instability, and during divisions among Israelis, noting that a “forever war” benefits him by making people feel constantly endangered and in need of his leadership. A political analyst adds that the trial “took all of us hostage,” while others describe how Netanyahu’s inner circle—referred to as a “sugar daddy” network—provided resources not supported by the state, ensuring political operations despite legal trouble. The relationship between Netanyahu and powerful business figures emerges as central. Arnold Milchan, an Israeli-born Hollywood producer who amassed wealth and influence, is described as a crucial conduit to the prime minister, with Netanyahu and his wife Sarah allegedly receiving gifts valued at a quarter of a million dollars. Milchan’s favors to Netanyahu and the suspicion that Milchan was bribing the prime minister are part of the ongoing breach of trust indictment, which centers on Netanyahu’s access to Milchan and possible protection or preferential treatment in return. The documentary also covers Shaul Alovich (Shai Alovich) and Yair and Sara Netanyahu’s media and political influence, including a controversial arrangement in which Netanyahu secured control of the Walla news site in return for signatures enabling Alovich to access cash. The witnesses describe the Netanyahu circle pressuring finance and tax laws to benefit Milchan and other allies, sometimes invoking American pressure and visa issues in the background. Key personal dynamics are highlighted. Sarah Netanyahu is portrayed as a powerful decision-maker who selects advisers, schedules, and policy, with accounts of her alleged mistreatment of workers and involvement in a sex scandal known as the “hot tape” scandal. The documentary suggests that Netanyahu’s fear and need to appear in control intensified after 2015, a turning point when his political team believed he could prevail regardless of public accountability, leading to a deterioration in judgment and trust. The narrative then shifts to Netanyahu’s long-established stance on terrorism and security, portraying him as an expert on terrorism and defender of Israel, whose televised performances built his popularity. This posture is juxtaposed with his handling of Hamas: the state’s support for Hamas, the flow of money to Hamas via Qatar at Netanyahu’s instruction, and the belief that Israel could control the level of hatred by direct support or management of Palestinian authorities are all presented as part of a strategy that backfired, culminating in October 7. The documentary asserts that his Gaza policy—keeping Hamas in Gaza to weaken the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank—failed catastrophically, and that support for hardline right-wing figures like Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich within his coalition has pushed Israel toward a more expansive, militarized approach, including settlement expansion and punitive actions in the West Bank. Public reaction is depicted as deeply divided. Weeks of demonstrations against judicial reform showed a country split, with protesters fearing that reform would castrate the judiciary and undermine democracy, while Netanyahu and his supporters argued reforms were essential, insisting that the investigations themselves forced drastic measures. The civilian toll of the war—over 15,000 deaths in Gaza at the time of filming, and ongoing hostages—adds urgency to calls for action, with hostage families pressing the government for results and accusing Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over ending hostilities and securing captives’ release. In conclusion, the documentary presents Netanyahu as a leader who has navigated crises by leveraging fear, strengthening coalition ties with far-right figures, and pursuing judicial changes that he argues are necessary for national security, while his opponents insist the reforms are designed to shield him from legal jeopardy. The film ends by reiterating that the war and the political crisis are intertwined, with the region’s chaos shaping Netanyahu’s tactical choices and the public’s willingness to endure them.

Speaker 1: 'You know, I I have friends over there, but they stopped talking to me when I did not unconditionally support what they're doing.' 'Right. So I I can't really say with absolute certainty, but I suspect that things are not good.' 'I think mister Netanyahu knows that the the issue for the Israelis from the very beginning of this tragedy and I say tragedy because I think eventually it will come out that seven October was allowed to happen, that July was not a surprise. There's plenty of evidence on the street right now.' 'And if that comes out, I think mister Netanyahu and his friends are gonna be in very serious trouble at home.' Speaker 0: 'Well, that's gonna be jail.' Speaker 1: 'Used as an excuse to to sort of practice arson across the region.'

In a discussion with Glenn about rising US-Iran tensions and the prospect of war, Syed Mohamed Marandi, a professor at Tehran University and former adviser to Iran’s nuclear negotiation team, outlines several key points and scenarios. - He asserts that Iranians are preparing for war, with the armed forces building new capabilities and underground bases, while ordinary Iranians remain calm and continue daily life. He notes large demonstrations on February 11, with up to 4,000,000 in Tehran and 26–34,000,000 nationwide, seen as a show of solidarity against what he calls Western “rioters or terrorists” and against aggressive posturing by Israel. He stresses that Iran government negotiations will be framed around Iranian sovereignty: Iran will not negotiate who its friends are, who its allies are, or give up its rights to a peaceful nuclear program or enrichment, but could consider a nuclear deal. He argues any new deal would not revert to JCPOA terms given Iran’s technological advances and sanctions. He says a deal is unlikely under current conditions, though not impossible, and that even with a deal, it wouldn’t necessarily endure long. Ultimately, Iran is portrayed as preparing for war to deter aggression and preserve sovereignty. - The conversation discusses broader regional security, linking Israeli-Palestinian issues to potential peace. Marandi argues that Zionism has ethnosupremacism and that Western media often whitewashes Israeli actions in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon. He emphasizes that a genuine peace would require recognizing Palestinian humanity and restoring fair treatment, arguing that a one-state solution could be the only viable path given the West’s failure to secure a lasting two-state arrangement. He contends the West has allowed colonization of the West Bank and that only a one-state outcome will resolve the situation, while portraying growing international hostility toward the Netanyahu regime and Zionism, including among young Jews. - On possible US strategies, Marandi rejects the notion of token strikes, arguing that even limited actions would invite broader conflict and potentially false-flag provocations that could be used to escalate toward war. He warns that Iran would respond with full force and could target US bases, naval assets, and regional interests, potentially shutting the Strait of Hormuz or sinking ships, with widespread economic ramifications. He predicts a regional war involving Iran’s allies in Iraq (where PMF played a key role against ISIS) and Yemen, and Hezbollah, suggesting that Arab Gulf regimes hosting US bases would likely collapse quickly in such a conflict. He stresses that Iran’s missile and drone capabilities are heavily focused on the Persian Gulf area and that war would be existential for Iran and its allies, but a dangerous, protracted challenge for the United States. - The potential consequences of US oil and petrochemical disruption are discussed. Marandi notes that Iran could retaliate against Iranian tankers or, conversely, seize Western tankers in response to piracy. He emphasizes Iran’s comparatively lower dependence on oil exports due to sanctions and sanctions-driven diversification, arguing that attacking Iran would backfire economically for the US and its allies. He also highlights that such a war would be regional, not just Iran versus the US, given Iran’s relationships with Iraq, Yemen, and other actors, and that Gulf regimes would be under immediate pressure. - Regarding current US leadership and narrative control, Marandi critiques the inconsistency of Western narratives around regime change, human rights, and democracy, pointing to the Epstein files as revealing a distrustful climate in Western politics. He argues Western media often uniformly pushes a narrative of Iranian repression while ignoring or whitewashing similar or worse actions by Western allies. He suggests that the lack of a cohesive, credible Western narrative signals a shift in geopolitical dynamics and could limit the ability to mobilize public support for aggressive actions against Iran. - They also touch on US-Israeli diplomacy, noting Trump and Netanyahu’s posturing and the Epstein documents’ potential implications. Marandi contends time is not on the side of aggressive policy, given midterm political pressures in the US and growing public skepticism about war, which could undermine leadership like Trump and Netanyahu if conflict escalates. The discussion ends with acknowledgment of the complexity and volatility of the situation, and gratitude for the opportunity to discuss it.

The documentary traces how Benjamin Netanyahu’s five-year leadership has been shaped by an intertwined mix of legal peril, personal power, and hard-line security strategies. It opens with the contention that the threat of prison has relentlessly focused Netanyahu’s decisions, with the corruption trials and the October 7 war serving as two central pressures that have driven his governance. One analyst asserts that the engine of his politics is the corruption cases, and that a perception of immunity from the law has underpinned his endurance in office even as investigations proliferated. Multiple speakers describe Netanyahu as someone who “does not respect the law” and who treats any challenge to him as a threat to his rule. They argue that the October 7 attack and its aftermath were leveraged as instruments to stay in power, with the country kept in a “forever war” that creates a constant sense of danger and dependency on his leadership. A political analyst from Channel 13 contends that Netanyahu “took all of us hostage in this trial.” The narrative introduces a network of personal and political patrons surrounding Netanyahu. Arnold Milchan, an American-based Hollywood producer with ties to the prime minister, allegedly facilitated gifts and favors in exchange for political access, raising charges about “breach of trust.” Shaul Alovich, a powerful Israeli tycoon, is described as a figure who could secure or extract critical favors from Netanyahu, including gaining control over the news site Walla in exchange for a signature that Alovich needed for financing. The far-reaching influence of such relationships is framed as evidence of a broader pattern in which “government officials are not allowed to take gifts” and where Netanyahu’s circle repeatedly sought to bend or bypass formal limits. The role of Sarah Netanyahu is highlighted as a decisive force in the Prime Minister’s circle. She is portrayed as a major decision-maker who selects advisers and policy directions, sometimes described as running the country alongside Netanyahu. The documentary also revisits a 30-year-old sex scandal involving Netanyahu and how it allegedly shaped his relationship with Sarah and his political strategy. The program introduces a long-running tension between Netanyahu and the Israeli judiciary, culminating in a 2023 push for judicial reform. It is argued that the reform aimed to “break the bones of the system” by altering how judges are chosen, the structure of the police, and the powers of the attorney general, thereby allowing Netanyahu greater leeway to handle his legal predicament. Supporters and critics are shown debating whether the reform is primarily about shielding Netanyahu from prosecution or about broader democratic changes. Public demonstrations against the reform are described as the largest in Israel’s history, with tens of thousands of protesters expressing strong opposition. The documentary also delves into Netanyahu’s relationships with fringe right-wing partners Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, describing the coalition as “the country’s most far-right ever government.” It portrays Smotrich and Ben-Gvir as driving forces for expansionist policies in the West Bank and for a hard-line approach to security and policing, including provocative rhetoric about annexation and ethnicity. The influence of the right on security policy is linked to actions in the West Bank and to a broader strategy that includes controversial measures against Arab citizens within Israel. On the Gaza front, the program presents a devastating toll: thousands of Palestinians killed in Gaza, with escalating casualty figures cited (ranging from 15,000 to 25,000 in various passages). Hostage families express desperation for the return of their loved ones, arguing that hostages must come home before any broader war aims. In this view, the war’s continuation and the handling of hostages are central tests of Netanyahu’s leadership, and critics argue that the pursuit of “total victory” against Hamas has produced a costly and unsustainable cycle, while some participants question whether military pressure alone can secure a durable peace or hostage releases. The documentary closes by noting the perceived disconnect between Netanyahu’s claims of expertise on terrorism and the real-world outcomes of his policies, suggesting that while he speaks to international audiences about leadership and security, the domestic and regional consequences of his strategies have produced deep-seated resentment, ongoing conflict, and a politicized judiciary that remains a flashpoint in Israeli politics.

Brandon and Kieran Andrew discuss the mounting regional dynamics as the Iran war drags into its fourth week. They agree on the possibility of serious unrest in at least one or two Arab countries in the coming years, though they caution not to overstate things. They note that the Gulf states lack a strong social contract, so economic volatility and external shocks could push instability, even if regimes recalibrate and survive. Kieran argues the perception in the region is that Iran has punched above its weight, pursuing a strategy of absorbing losses while raising costs for opponents, especially the US and Israel. Across the region, people are furious with the disruption and violence, privately blaming Israel and the United States for attacking Iran, even if publicly they maintain official narratives. Sovereignty violations against Iran are seen as justification for Iranian retaliation, with regimes prioritizing survival and counterattack. They touch on Bahrain as a case study: civil and political fragility, with Shiite civilians allegedly assisting Iranian targeting, and the Bahrain monarch’s status complicating regional dynamics. This feeds into the broader idea that a new Arab Spring is plausible in the Gulf as governments face popular pressures and a deteriorating social contract. Brandon reflects on the American role, noting the US prioritized defending Israeli targets over its own bases in the region, which erodes trust among Arab states. This feeds a fear that American retreat could materialize, altering long-standing regional alignments and making it harder to maintain bases or security commitments. The conversation shifts to the US-Israel relationship. They discuss the “wolf’s milk of nationalism” and how many Israelis are conditioned to view themselves as besieged and exceptional, which shapes policy and public opinion. They critique a top Israeli official’s stance that the Strait of Hormuz is not Israel’s concern, calling it insane and arguing that open sea lanes affect everyone. They contrast Israel’s unified national narrative with the region’s broader interests, suggesting that the Israeli leadership often acts in ways that may be unsustainable in the long run. They discuss the economics of the conflict. The IEA highlighted that oil shocks in 1973 and 1979 produced a combined loss of about 10 million barrels per day; in this war, about 11 million barrels per day have been lost on average. Gas losses are also significant, with 2022 spikes reversing and accelerating inflation. They warn about broader macro effects: rising inflation (Goldman Sachs predicting 4.5% in the US), higher interest rates, stock market risks, and potential AI-related energy and helium shortages that could undermine tech-driven growth. They emphasize that this energy shock could feed a broader recession in the West. They debate possible endgames. Scenario one: Trump constructs a narrative that the US won, reaching a face-saving deal with Iran to “cover up” a catastrophic outcome; Iran then consolidates a more entrenched, economically weakened regime, and the US must manage the fallout with bases and allies. Scenario two: deployment of US troops leads to a quagmire, with escalating casualties and a draw-out conflict that could push toward nuclear risk. Scenario three: arguably not distinct, but a continued escalation toward wider conflict, potentially drawing in adversaries or increasing regional volatility. They see scenario two as more likely, driven by Israeli pressure and ongoing US engagement, possibly culminating in escalation to nuclear threats. They consider Russia and China’s roles. Russia is viewed as aligned with China; China is playing a cautious, calculating game, avoiding direct involvement while expanding its influence through trade and joint exercises with client states. They argue China’s approach could accelerate American decline and shift influence toward Beijing’s orbit over the next 15–30 years, with Pacific allies and others gravitating toward China for stability and economic ties, even if not openly allied. Iran remains central. They discuss Iran’s resilience: even if economic conditions deteriorate, the regime could deepen its internal consolidation and broaden its persistence through institutions and praetorian guard support. If nukes were used or if retaliation escalates, the regime’s survivability would hinge on its decentralized structure and potential for hardline consolidation. Brandon asks about the possible brain drain and long-term sustainability of Israel if the conflict endures. Kieran warns that even if Israel survives militarily, it faces a Pyrrhic victory with existential threats from within, including demographic shifts, brain drain, and an economy sustained by a war footing and American aid, which may not be sustainable in the long run. Brain drain and domestic social fractures could undermine Israel’s stability and economic vitality, especially once the immediate military crisis subsides. Towards the end, they acknowledge that the war’s trajectory will likely redefine US influence, the Gulf’s political landscape, and Israel’s future. They conclude with mutual acknowledgment of the complexities, agreeing that the situation is poised to reshape regional and global power dynamics for years to come, and that the path forward remains uncertain and dangerous. They sign off with plans to reconnect, noting Kieran’s Navarra Live and other media appearances.

Netanyahu immediately weighed in with prayers about Charlie Kirk just minutes after he was killed. It was eerie. His body was still warm, and Netanyahu was beginning to claim Charlie Kirk's legacy. "Israel requires American Christian, mostly conservative men to fight the war of Armageddon that Netanyahu wants against Iran." Kirk, a conservative asset, was moving away from Netanyahu and privately despised him under Zionist donor pressure. The Grey Zone exposed a secret Hamptons influencer summit. Candace Owens later revealed more. Netanyahu released a video: "I did not kill Charlie Kirk. I never accused him of killing Charlie Kirk." The talk covers DEI funding via the Tikva Fund and a push to buy TikTok to suppress Palestine content, led by Larry Ellison’s network. Antifa designated as a terrorist organization; media consolidation and regional tensions involving Turkey, Syria, Qatar; Egypt’s red line on Gaza, Rafah.

- The discussion reassesses how the Iran-focused conflict has progressed since it began, contrasting current dynamics with earlier expectations about an exit ramp or rapid change in Iran. - Speaker 1 argues that it was unlikely Trump would off-ramp; instead, major mistakes were made in understanding Iran and the war’s nature. He attributes false assurances to Israel’s Mossad, notably David Barnea, who allegedly pressed Washington that Iran was on the verge of a revolution and that a “house of cards” would collapse after a short spark. - He outlines three U.S. attempts at decapitation-style moves: 1) June 13: the first decapitation strike, 2) January: protests hoped to topple the government by destabilizing the rial and bazaars, 3) February 24: another decapitation strike targeting the supreme leader and others. He cites Israeli press as saying these were intelligence errors and that there is no sign of Iran’s collapse. - Israeli public sentiment, per the Hebrew press, is shifting from earlier regime-change aims to pressing Trump to take “Cargilland” (i.e., a new approach or frontline) as the key to the future, implying a pivot in expectations from Israel. - Trump is described as still seeking an exit ramp, motivated by looming midterm elections and an improving political position, but his chances depend on actions within weeks. Iran has rejected his ceasefire proposals, echoing past patterns where Western talks (notably Wittkopf and Kushner) talked of ceasefires without addressing Iranian demands or broader regional security architecture. - The speaker notes a recurring pattern: repeated ceasefire discussions that don’t resolve phase two or underlying security concerns, with Iran consistently saying no to proposed ceasefires or terms. - The situation is set against a broader political backdrop: Netanyahu’s government has reportedly given up on regime change and is considering boots on the ground, with a focus on whether Trump can sustain casualties. - Military developments cited include: - An expeditionary military unit expected to arrive soon, two MEUs, and the 82nd Airborne Division, with staging locations uncertain (Jordan or elsewhere). - The war widening rapidly and becoming more dangerous in the region. - Regional reactions and potential escalations include: - U.S. airstrikes on Iraqi forces prompting Iraqi factions, including Ashad al-Hashabi, to threaten attacks on the U.S. and Iran. - Reports of Iraqi troops massing near Kuwait, raising concerns of a broader sectarian conflict. - The Houthis (and Hezbollah) indicating willingness to join if attacks escalate, with both already signaling involvement on the periphery. - The overall trajectory described suggests a move toward a wider, sectarian conflict involving Iraq, Iran-aligned groups, and regional actors, with ongoing disagreements over ceasefires and strategic aims.

- "Charlie Kirk is the pro Zionist guy." - "What if they were listening in to him and he was in communications with people saying, hey. I think I'm gonna go this direction and they knew his intentions or saw this pattern." - "Here's this pro Zionist guy with this incredibly powerful platform that they built, by the way, that Charlie has, thanks to them." - "So if he's gonna take what they gave him and turn it against them, that could literally destroy Israel because the youth is people they're most concerned about." - "We can't let him turn." - "Israel was never my top suspect until, you know, I've spent twenty four hours thinking about it, I'm like, it's not unreasonable. It's not even out of the question in terms of would Israel do this." - "it's in their wheelhouse."

Larry Johnson and the host discuss the rapid developments around Iran and the wider regional implications, challenging the narrative of visible damage and highlighting inconsistencies in Western reporting. Key points about Israel, Iran, and propaganda: - Johnson argues Israel’s situation may be worse than Tehran’s, noting that Iran seeks to destroy Israeli infrastructure while Israel aims to project resilience through propaganda, including social media controls. He cites a video on sonar21.com showing what he sees as the ineffectiveness of Israeli and US air defenses in Israel, with four missiles impacting Tel Aviv and across the horizon. - There are reports of significant pushback in Israel: divisions between police and military, shortages of food, inadequate shelters, and protests. Johnson says Western propaganda claiming Israel is unscathed is contradicted by these reports. - Johnson suggests Israel is attempting to broaden the conflict with Iran through false flag attacks (oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, and incidents in Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Cyprus) to draw NATO into a broader confrontation, but asserts Iran has been effective in debunking these false flags. Weapons, logistics, and supply constraints: - A major theme is American and allied weapon shortages and the sustainability of a prolonged campaign against Iran. Johnson and Speaker 1 discuss limits in Patriot and THAAD stocks, and the difficulty of sustaining Tomahawk production due to rare earth minerals controlled by China. - Patriot missiles: production data show a ramp-up from 2015-2020 (approximately 1,800 units total) to higher annual outputs since 2020 (about 550 per year, plus 620 in 2025). Ukraine reportedly exhausted its 974 Patriot missiles. - THAAD missiles are even less abundant (about 79 produced per year; each costs around $12-13 million), with a small overall stockpile. This implies a limited capacity to sustain long campaigns. - The discussion notes that the United States’ missile inventories are not as unlimited as sometimes claimed; logistics and manufacturing limits are real constraints, and resupply for long conflicts would be challenging. - The availability of Tomahawk missiles depends on rare earths from China, adding another constraint beyond factory capacity and labor. Ground force considerations and regional dynamics: - There is skepticism about any credible prospect of American boots on the ground in Iran. The Kurds, if mobilized, would face severe logistical and operational challenges in Iran’s rugged western border, making sustained insurgencies unlikely to impact Iranian politics. Early reports indicate Kurdish infiltrations were quickly repelled by Iranian forces. - Russia’s transfer of 28 attack helicopters to Iran is discussed as part of a broader assessment of Iranian military readiness. Iran has shot down several US air platforms (including multiple F-15s) in the past few days, reinforcing a perception of Iranian resilience. - Johnson notes that the West’s strategy to portray Iran as weak has backfired, strengthening internal Iranian unity and resolve, particularly after the February 28 and earlier June incidents. Regional and global reactions: - The war’s geographic expansion, including the submarine incident near Sri Lanka and broader Gulf security concerns, risks drawing in more regional actors and complicating alliances. - The Gulf states (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar) rely heavily on US protection and expat labor, and there is growing concern about the United States’ ability to guarantee security. Johnson argues this could erode Western credibility and investment in the region. - The strait of Hormuz is pivotal; Iran’s potential control could disrupt global oil flows, with cascading economic effects. Saudi Arabia’s oil infrastructure may be shielded by alternative pipelines, but LNG exporters like Qatar would suffer significant downtime. - The broader strategic picture suggests a shift away from US-dominant security arrangements in the Gulf, with Turkey coordinating with Iran, and Gulf states re-evaluating security guarantees and economic dependence on the United States. Outlook and possible endings: - Johnson forecasts a prolonged attritional conflict, with the United States unlikely to break Iran’s defenses without a substantial and sustained shift in strategy. He argues that air power alone fails to achieve regime change and notes historical examples across Iraq, Serbia, and Vietnam where air campaigns did not produce the desired political outcomes. - He predicts an endgame in which Iran could leverage the Strait of Hormuz to negotiate terms that reduce sanctions in exchange for reopening traffic, but only if Washington concedes to major concessions (including ending military bases in Saudi Arabia and Qatar). - He warns this crisis could accelerate regional instability and potentially erode the United States’ credibility, with domestic political repercussions and potential shifts in both US and European political alignments. Final thoughts: - The discussion emphasizes the mismatch between optimistic Western narratives and the practical limits of militaries, economies, and logistics in sustaining a longer confrontation with Iran. - The speakers stress that a straightforward, decisive victory seems unlikely; instead, the conflict risks deepening regional instability, economic disruption, and lasting strategic realignments in the Middle East.

The host notes the ceasefire appears to be over after Israel scuttled Trump’s plans for a two-week peace; the Wall Street Journal reports that Netanyahu was furious he wasn’t included in the peace plan discussions. The host says Israel wasn’t formally part of Iran negotiations and was unhappy it learned a deal was finalized late and wasn’t consulted, according to mediators and a promoter familiar with the matter. Speaker 1 interjects apologetically, then remarks that online narrative suggests that if you say Israel led the US into this war, you’re antisemitic, which they call antisemitic, and speculate that they’re all antisemitic. Speaker 0 describes Israel as throwing a tantrum “like a toddler” after the peace plan’s collapse and launching massive airstrikes on residential buildings in southern Lebanon, supposedly with no military purpose. Speaker 2 counters that civilians are involved and mentions tunnels under the area. Speaker 0 notes these attacks also targeted Iranian and Chinese Belt and Road Initiative infrastructure, calling it a direct attack on China, and claims at least 250 people were killed in these attacks on civilian apartment complexes in southern Lebanon. Speaker 1 adds that bombs continue to hit Beirut, with images described as horrific; there are 256 confirmed deaths at that point. Israel is also ramping up attacks in Gaza and the West Bank, which some warned would happen once the ceasefire was announced. Speaker 3 states that Netanyahu says the ceasefire with the US and Iran “is cute, but it doesn’t really have much to do with Israel,” and that Israel will keep fighting whenever they want, noting that two weeks were announced but not the end of the world. Acknowledgment follows that “we were not surprised in the last moment.” Calls for Netanyahu’s resignation in Israel rise. Iran announces it will close the Strait of Hormuz; the Trump administration says water will open but contradicts Fox News reporting that tankers have been stopped due to the ceasefire breach. Fox News reports raise concerns about whether the plan is credible. Speaker 4 mentions that Iran’s parliament says the ceasefire is violated in three ways: noncompliance with the ceasefire in Lebanon (civilians being slaughtered), violation of Iranian airspace, and denial of Iran’s right to enrichment; Iran insists uranium enrichment remains part of the deal, while the Trump administration claims they will not enrich uranium. Speaker 5 adds that Iran’s ability to fund and support proxies has been reduced, claiming Iran can no longer distribute weapons to proxies and will not be able to acquire nuclear weapons; prior to the operation, Iran was expanding its short-range ballistic missile arsenal and its navy, which posed an imminent threat to US assets and regional allies. The host counters that June had claimed “done enriching uranium,” but Iran says they will do whatever they want, having “won the war.” Speaker 6 asks how one eliminates a proxy’s ability to distribute weapons if the weapons and proxy networks already exist. Speaker 1 notes the points are contentious and shifts to a discussion with Ryan Grimm from Dropside News. The host, Speaker 0, asks Grimm to weigh in on the 10-point plan circulated as Trump’s plan, which Grimm says is not a formal document and not necessarily accurate; a “collection of different proposals” from Iran that was “collected into a single proposal” and later claimed to be new when presented as a new 10-point plan. Grimm describes the process as inconsistent and says the administration’s narrative has become convoluted. A segment follows about a centenarian, Maria Morea (born 1907, died 2024 at 117), whose gut microbiome showed diverse beneficial bacteria; studies of long-lived people show similar patterns, suggesting longevity relates to daily habits and gut health. The sponsor pitch for kimchi capsules is included, noting it provides gut-beneficial bacteria with Brightcore’s product, offering a discount. Speaker 0 returns to the ceasefire discussions, arguing that Israel’s actions indicate it does not want peace. Grimm expands, saying Israel is in a worse position than before and aims to push north into Lebanon and perhaps target maritime resources; Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz would elevate its regional status, with Belt and Road targets implying a significant structural shift. The host questions whether Trump would abandon Netanyahu if necessary and whether Trump would throw Netanyahu under the bus to stop the war. Grimm suggests Trump may prefer an out to avoid broader conflict, while noting the political stakes in the US and international responses. The discussion then revisits how Netanyahu allegedly sold the war to Trump and cabinet members, with New York Times reporting that the aim was to kill leaders, blunt Iran’s power, and potentially replace the Iranian government, while acknowledging that the initial strikes did not achieve regime change and that Iran’s ballistic missiles and proxies have been affected by the conflict. The segment closes with a humorous analogy to a Broadway line about a fully armed battalion.

The discussion centers on whether Netanyahu's government is in serious trouble and what recent developments suggest about Israeli politics and the Gaza situation. - Protests and public sentiment in Israel: Proponents point to large weekly protests in Tel Aviv against Netanyahu, noting claims of “massive protests” that have drawn thousands, with some saying a quarter of a million previously. The speakers emphasize that demonstrations before October 7 indicated substantial opposition to Netanyahu, including calls for a commission of inquiry into corruption and judicial overreach. They also acknowledge a shift after October 7, with Netanyahu attempting to build a coalition and currently holding about 65 of 120 seats, suggesting he remains in power. One speaker asserts that protests are used politically, while acknowledging their scale in the center of Israel. - Netanyahu’s political standing and coalition: The speakers describe Netanyahu as facing multiple felony charges related to corruption and note his history of coalition-building with smaller parties. They argue that war and conflict are used domestically to unite the population and distract from corruption allegations. They suggest Netanyahu’s government is the most extreme right-wing in Israel’s history, with two cabinet ministers having felony convictions for anti-Arab hate crimes and holding key security and finance roles. The prognosis offered is that Netanyahu is not likely to be removed from power soon, potentially leading through 2030. - Funds to Hamas via Qatar before October 7: A new report from the Tel Aviv newspaper Idiot “Iranath” states that Israel asked Qatar to increase funds transferred to Hamas in Gaza less than a month before October 7. The claim is that Netanyahu-era officials knew the money would enable Hamas to divert funds to arms and military preparedness, and that Hamas was exploiting Qatar’s civilian aid to strengthen its military capabilities. The discussion emphasizes that Israel funds Hamas indirectly through Qatar, and that nothing entering Gaza happens without Israeli knowledge or approval. - Stand-down orders and the October 7 attack: The conversation discusses Israeli stand-down orders and the protests among IDF soldiers about the events of October 7. There is an assertion that some young women in IDF outposts were put at risk, with questions about what the government knew and whether it allowed certain actions. The speakers describe a view that the Israeli military and political leadership may have been complicit or negligent regarding operations on October 7, including claims about attempted obfuscation of investigations and the Hannibal directive. - CIA, John Kiriakou, and past U.S. behavior: The dialogue references CIA whistleblower John Kiriakou, noting his exposure of the Bush torture program and contrasting U.S. actions with Israeli policies. John Kiriakou comments on his experiences in the Middle East, including an anecdote about discussions in Riyadh in 1991 regarding Gaza’s infrastructure, and he asserts that Netanyahu’s government is deeply integrated with actions surrounding Hamas. - Prospects for accountability and investigations: The speakers express strong doubt about a credible investigation into October 7, arguing that Israel is in “survival mode” and that Netanyahu will not be imprisoned. They describe proposed commission arrangements as potentially whitewashing, with Netanyahu seeking to appoint some members himself, and they predict that the investigation is unlikely to be thorough or independent. - Summary stance: The discussion presents Netanyahu as politically resilient despite corruption charges, with a broad right-wing coalition and ongoing protests. It underscores the interconnections between Israeli funding structures for Hamas through Qatar, the alleged stand-downs surrounding October 7, and perceived obstacles to a transparent, independent accountability process.

Chas Freeman and Glenn discuss the broader geopolitical implications of the ongoing war with Iran, focusing on perspectives from China, Russia, and the United States, and then turning to regional dynamics involving Israel, Japan, Brazil, South Africa, and others. Freeman argues that China does not have a unified view on the Iran war. He notes that some in the Chinese People’s Liberation Army are pleased to see the United States seemingly disarmed by its own stalemate and by depleting weapons stockpiles, including the pivot away from stationing intermediate-range missiles in the Pacific. Geopolitical thinkers fear the war destabilizes a central region for global commerce and energy, with the Hormuz Strait now effectively impassable. He asserts that Azerbaijan has become a primary route for Asia-to-Europe transit, while Iran’s control of the strait and safe passage for Chinese tankers complicate sanctions regimes. China, he says, is also recalibrating its economy toward renewables and away from fossil fuels due to the war’s effects. Freeman highlights how Asia-Pacific dynamics are affected: Japan is highly dependent on oil and gas imports and is stressed; Taiwan faces limits due to its own energy constraints; South Korea is economically hurt by the strait closure; Southeast Asia suffers from reduced petroleum exports; and the war pushes China closer to Russia, with Russia’s planned Siberia gas project gaining traction as a diversified supply route away from maritime routes. He also mentions Brazil and South Africa increasing military cooperation, noting potential Brazilian-Japanese collaborations and rising defense spending in Japan, with implications for US influence and global supply chains. Freeman then discusses Russia, noting Trump’s call with Putin and the possibility that Russia is seeking to influence or assist in ending the war with Iran. He asserts Iran seeks to deter or destroy Israel and to decolonize West Asia, including removing American forces from the Gulf. He emphasizes that Russia and China do not want Iran subjugated and abstained on a Security Council resolution condemning Iran, aiming to avoid offending Gulf Arabs while not endorsing the war. The war has drawn Iran closer to Russia, with Iranian drones and technology transfers now in Russian use, and Russia increasing influence in Iran as Gulf reconstruction becomes necessary. Freeman also points out that Iran has demanded reparations and sanctions relief, and that sanctions have deeply distressed the Iranian population. He argues that Russia benefits from higher oil and gas prices and European energy dependence on Russian supply, while the conflict complicates Western weapon stockpiles and European defense needs. He contends Putin benefits from divisions within the US and diminished American global leadership, while the war is not advantageous for the United States overall. Freeman emphasizes a broader moral and strategic dimension, criticizing what he sees as a departure from international law and ethical norms, including the suspension of targeting guidelines and collateral-damage assessments in certain operations. He cites concerns about human rights and humanitarian law, warning that the erosion of a universal moral order could have long-term consequences for Western diplomacy. He invokes historical and religious ethical frameworks (Kant, Grotius, and others) to argue for a return to principled conduct in war and postwar reconciliation. The conversation turns to Israel, with Freeman suggesting that Netanyahu’s long-standing aim to reshape Israel’s security and borders faces a difficult reckoning as Iran becomes a tangible military threat. Freeman contends that Israel’s plan for regime change in Iran is failing, and he questions what Plan B might be if Israel cannot secure its strategic goals. He warns that Israel could contemplate extreme options, including nuclear considerations, if it feels existentially threatened, while noting the potential for Israel’s positions to undermine American public support for Israel and complicate US domestic civil liberties and freedom of inquiry. Glenn and Freeman close by acknowledging that the situation has created a shifting web of alliances and rivalries, with European willingness to appease Trump waning and broader questions about coexistence in the Middle East. They stress the need for a more sustainable approach to regional security and a reconsideration of diplomatic norms to avoid escalating toward broader conflict.

Ashwin Rutansi hosts Going Underground, opening with a claim that Dubai was hit harder by Iranian retaliation than anywhere else in the region outside Israel, and noting this broadcast marks 73 years since the CIA’s MKUltra program. He frames the USA and what it represents as a malign influence, and argues the US propaganda system has failed to spin defeats in multiple wars, including the Iran conflict. He says the world recognizes Israel’s genocide in Gaza despite NATO attempts to shield it, and notes that US public opinion shows disapproval of Israel. Netanyahu is accused of tightly controlling the media and cracking down on protests. Rutansi then welcomes Avram Berg (Israel’s former president, speaker in the Knesset, professor at NYU Abu Dhabi and Notre Dame Jerusalem) who speaks from Jerusalem. The discussion concentrates on the power dynamic between Netanyahu and Trump, and whether Netanyahu was surprised by Trump’s ceasefire declaration, plus how Netanyahu might retaliate if the ceasefire were sabotaged. Speaker 1 (Avram Berg) characterizes the situation as highly serious and delicate. He suggests the war’s origins and triggers are unclear, describing a “divorce” in the relationship between Trump and Israel: Trump’s ceasefire move is seen as coordinated or at least not fully aligned with Israel. Berg notes Netanyahu has not publicly spoken yet, and might frame the ceasefire as coordinated with him, but he views the immediate outcome as neither side having real winners and sees Iran as having survived strongly. He suggests China is rising in the background. Rutansi asks how secure Netanyahu is if the ceasefire persisted, recalling Israel’s aggressive actions in Lebanon after Trump’s ceasefire announcement and Trump’s retreat from conditions. Berg replies that politically, Israel has an election looming; the war was a strategic move for internal politics—Israelis rally around the government during wartime—yet Netanyahu may not gain politically from this round and could face backlash in upcoming elections. Berg also argues Netanyahu’s broader agenda—weakening Iran, disarming Hezbollah, and stopping Hamas—has failed across these fronts, leaving Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran still viable or intact. The host probes whether Netanyahu needs a false flag or propaganda to counter what Trump’s supporters might claim. Berg distinguishes substance from rhetoric, noting Hezbollah in the north is a problem for Lebanon and Syria; Iran’s threat was real but not existential for Israel, and suggests diplomacy and balancing could have handled it better. Berg emphasizes that war without political settlement is wasteful and results in casualties across many sides. Rutansi notes growing global hatred of Israel, while Berg refrains from embracing Hamas/Hezbollah as liberation movements, warning against falling into such narratives. Berg acknowledges global resentment of Israel but doubts a wholesale shift in allegiance toward Hamas or Hezbollah. The host asks about Epstein-related intelligence rumors and Trump’s leverage. Berg dismisses Epstein-related conspiracy as gossip rather than serious political leverage, insisting on reasoning over sensationalism. He does acknowledge Epstein’s notoriety but rejects tying it to concrete policy influence. When the discussion turns to nuclear weapons, Berg asserts Israel’s nuclear capability remains officially unacknowledged domestically, recounting past suppression of open debate on the topic. Berg argues that Iran’s perceived threats and regional rivalries push towards deterrence and urges a Middle East no-weapon agreement to reduce risk. He contends the broader regional security architecture must discourage all nuclear powers, including Israel, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and neighboring states, with energy collaboration coupled with non-proliferation. On whether Netanyahu would use a nuclear weapon to stay out of jail, Berg says no, arguing the strategic logic of nuclear use deters first use and that leaders know once a nuclear device is used, it invites retaliation. He views Netanyahu as unlikely to employ a nuclear weapon. Rutansi closes, promising continued coverage of the Trump-Netanyahu-Iran dynamic, while Berg declines to dive into conspiracy theories, reiterating that discourse should be grounded in arguments, values, and policy.

The speakers critique how Holocaust education operates in today’s media landscape and its unintended effects. They reference a remark by a woman (Hurwitz) who said that “the real problem with all this Holocaust education is that now people are pissed off when we try to do it,” highlighting shock at the idea that someone would voice such a sentiment aloud. They confirm the quote with “Yeah. Here it is right here. Yep.” They argue that in the 1990s a young person wouldn’t easily find Al Jazeera or Nick Fuentes, but today “those media outlets find them” on their phones. This has coincided with a shift to a post-literate media environment: “less and less text, more and more videos.” TikTok is described as “smashing our young people's brains all day long with video of carnage in Gaza,” making it hard to have sane conversations with younger Jews because any message is filtered through a “wall of carnage.” Data, information, facts, and arguments are perceived as being drowned out by emotional imagery, and speakers acknowledge that people “are seeing in their minds carnage” and may call their rational arguments obscene. The dialogue emphasizes vivid images of dead children, noting that “these dead babies” have an emotional effect on people, and that facts alone seem insufficient against the visceral response. One speaker remarks that the emphasis on such imagery is powerful and difficult to counter with reason. A part of the discussion pauses to consider statistics and argues that Hurwitz’s argument lacks a clear statistical basis, instead presenting a visual argument through images of dead children. The speakers insist that the response is not a result of rational persuasion; one person insists, “It wasn't a choice I made with my brain. It was a choice I made with my heart, you idiot,” and asserts that genocide cannot be rationalized. The group reflects on how the “very smart bet” of Holocaust education serving as antisemitism education may be breaking down in the new media environment. They acknowledge that education about the Holocaust is “absolutely essential,” but contend it may confuse some young people about antisemitism, particularly when young viewers see “powerful Israelis hurting weak, skinny Palestinians” on TikTok. The implication is that the historical lesson (strong vs. weak oppression) could be misinterpreted as a justification to “fight Israel,” aligning antisemitism with the trope of anti-black racism in some perceptions. There is a stark contrast drawn between captives who “can’t leave” and those with the power to act, underscoring a perception of oppression and lack of mobility. The discussion uses strong metaphors, including comparisons to a “giant game of Saw,” to describe the perceived moral torture of the situation. Towards the end, the speakers acknowledge that the overarching topic across conversations—whether in Charlie Kirk’s letter to Netanyahu, CBS News, or related discussions—is “we're losing.” They acknowledge that “we get back to winning” is a recurring concern, indicating an awareness of a struggle to regain a strategic or communicative advantage in the discourse.

The speakers discuss the possibility of a war increasing a president's chances of reelection and the chaos of the 2020 elections. They question the knowledge and involvement of Israel's secret intelligence agency, Mossad, in recent events. They also speculate on the motives behind the conflict between Israel and Hamas, wondering if it is a way for Netanyahu to solidify his legacy or eliminate Hamas. The speakers express skepticism about the lack of awareness and response from Israel's government and raise concerns about the possibility of another major attack. They suggest alternative explanations, such as double-crossing agents or traitors within the government. The speakers also mention the potential for Israel to seek revenge and ethnically cleanse Gaza.

If the Mossad had the October plans a year prior, why wasn't Israel prepared? The speaker questions why this hasn't been earnestly asked due to the "fog of war." Referencing Tom Friedman, the speaker suggests the Israeli government may be the "worst thing" to happen to Jewish people globally, citing rising antisemitism and the implication that being Jewish equates to supporting Netanyahu, not Israel's right to exist. Netanyahu is described as a "monster" for discussing personal sacrifices on TV while hostages remain unnegotiated for. The speaker supports Israel and a two-state solution, noting past efforts to curtail Netanyahu, like restricting bunker-busting bombs and opening aid lanes. Now, aid is blocked, and journalists are being killed at unprecedented rates. The speaker asks where are the protestors who previously chanted "Genocide Joe," as the situation has worsened, and the end is near.

- The public blames Netanyahu for October 7 as the one who fed the beast. He did not create Hamas, but he fed it. - Netanyahu, who is against peace and against having a Palestinian state, dealt with Hamas for a long time as a strategic friend. It was important for him to keep Gaza under the control of Hamas and keeping the West Bank under Fateh and preventing them from being united in any way. In order to do so, Netanyahu was all the time helping Hamas to survive. - At the same time that he was under investigation, he arranged for Hamas to receive $35,000,000 every month from Qatar. - Netanyahu can't give the money by himself. Israel will not give money to the Hamas. You cannot even transfer this money through banks because even the banks don't want to cooperate. So you, the Israeli prime minister, needs to beg this small and very rich country, Qatar, to give money to our enemy. - This suitcases of money was given to Hamas under the request of Benjamin Netanyahu personally. And because the Qatarians knew him from the beginning, they were asking him to send them his requests in writing because they knew that he's going to lie in the future. - He allowed more than 1,000,000,000 to be transferred to the hands of the Hamas because he believed that he can control the level of hatred. It's nonsense. He cannot control the flames. - Your strategy was keep Hamas there, weaken the Palestinian authority on the West Bank, sustain the extremists, weaken the moderate. This exploded in our faces in the most brutal way on October 7. - Bibi tells the world again and again and again, I'm the expert on terrorism. I know how to fight terrorism. I'm the protector of Israel. And under his regime, we get into this incredible, unbelievable war. - I think we have to finish the job. We can finish the job. Victory is within reach, and that's our goal, total victory. Our fight is your fight, and our victory is your victory. Tonight, I wanna speak to you about total victory. Total victory over Hamas. Unless we have total victory, we can't have peace. - Total victory doesn't actually mean anything here in actuality. You know all of the casualties and death and suffering, and that's what it looks like in reality. That's what those words actually mean. - My dear friends, the word Gaza could end tomorrow if Hamas surrenders, disarms, and returns all the hospital. That's what total victory means, and we will settle for nothing less. - Netanyahu comes to the congress because he needs Americans desperately. - My friends, I came to assure you today of one thing. We will win. - He wants the Israeli public to be proud to have their leader speaking in front of this very prestigious group and getting applauded so many times. He's speaking to the American Congress, but he's really speaking to the Israeli public. - I would say that, tragically, the Americans don't know how to call him out. There was no plan for ending the war of Gaza, bringing the hostages home, and changing dynamics in the region. And things only got worse. Netanyahu is the architect of chaos. He may create a situation where it's irreversible. - He is the great example of a leader that lead his people to the wrong place. But this is the reality in which he will preserve his political power. And he know how to manipulate. Manipulate. He needs it in a way.