Dangers of the Deep State From the Inside Looking Out
Jan 20, 2024
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Victor Davis Hanson interviews Kash Patel, expert on Iran, Biden's policy of appeasement, and Israel. They discuss the designation of Iran as a terrorist organization, the deep state's overreach in the military, scandals and controversies surrounding the Russian collusion investigation, the strengths of the Trump campaign, and efforts to refute rumors of Trump's collusion with Russia.
The Biden administration's weak and ineffective approach towards Iran lacks the necessary punitive measures to curb their aggressive actions, posing a threat to American and Israeli security.
The focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the US military under the Biden administration has resulted in a decline in recruitment and morale, overshadowing the importance of military preparedness and addressing threats from adversaries like China and Russia.
Deep dives
Biden Administration's Weak Response to Iran's Activities
The podcast episode explores the Biden administration's recent designation of Iran as a terrorist organization. It is highlighted that this designation is weak and ineffective, lacking the punitive measures needed to curb Iran's aggressive actions. The speaker, Cash Patel, explains that the previous Trump administration had taken a stronger stance against Iran, imposing economic and diplomatic sanctions that hindered Iran's proxy forces, such as the Houthis. The current administration's approach, on the other hand, is criticized for its lack of effectiveness and its failure to address the threats posed by Iran, which includes attacks on American ships and the recent killing of US Navy operators.
Consequences of Biden Administration's Iran Policy
Cash Patel discusses the consequences of the Biden administration's policy towards Iran. He explains that the administration's decision to unfreeze billions of dollars of Iranian money and lift sanctions has further emboldened Iran and its proxy forces, such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. Patel emphasizes that this policy has allowed these groups to purchase weapons from countries like China and Russia, posing a significant threat to American and Israeli security. He criticizes Biden for prioritizing climate change and other issues over the threat posed by Iran, leading to a deterioration in national security.
Challenges Facing the US Military
The podcast episode delves into the challenges currently facing the US military. Patel highlights the detrimental effect of the Biden administration's emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the military, which he suggests has led to promotions and retention based on factors other than meritocracy. He also discusses the recruitment shortfall, citing a decline of 35,000 recruits in the US Army since Biden took office. Patel explains that the diminishing morale and recruitment problems are a result of the administration's focus on DEI rather than maintaining military preparedness and addressing threats from adversaries like China and Russia.
Accountability for Disinformation and Media's Role
The podcast episode touches upon the accountability of the media and the role it played in spreading disinformation during the Trump administration. Cash Patel emphasizes the need for consequences for individuals in the media who knowingly spread false information and participated in false narratives, especially regarding issues like Russia collusion. He suggests that legal actions, both criminal and civil, could be taken against those who violated the law or defamed individuals. Patel also argues for potential clawback mechanisms to address the substantial financial gains made by media institutions through the proliferation of disinformation.