1A The News Roundup For June 27, 2025
Jun 27, 2025
Guest
Akbar Shahid Ahmed
Guest
James Kipfield
Guest
Margaret Tolliv
Guest
Wendy Benjaminson
Guest
Arthur Delaney
Arthur Delaney, a senior reporter at HuffPost, joins forces with Wendy Benjaminson from Bloomberg News and Margaret Tolliv, director at Syracuse University, to dissect NATO's pledge to ramp up defense spending amid global tensions. James Kipfield evaluates the fallout from U.S. airstrikes in Iran and their implications for international relations. Akbar Shahid Ahmed delves into the complexities of aid in Gaza, underlining the tragedy of violence and skepticism surrounding humanitarian efforts. Together, they unravel the intricacies of politics and policy shaping current events.
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Episode notes
Uncertainty About Iran Strikes' Impact
- The US airstrikes in Iran caused damage but assessing the full impact, especially on underground facilities, remains uncertain.
- Key questions remain about the whereabouts of uranium and whether centrifuges were destroyed or repairable.
Tense White House-Intel Relations
- The Trump administration shows distrust and tension with the US Intelligence Community, especially when assessments conflict with its narrative.
- Leaks of intelligence reports are fiercely opposed by the White House, hindering transparent assessments.
Ambiguity Hinders Congress
- Although Iran admits damage from strikes, the extent remains ambiguous, affecting congressional decision-making.
- The administration’s insistence on portraying a total victory delays policy clarity moving forward.
