The Comedy Cellar: Live from the Table

Exposing the “Clean Break” Myth: Israel Was Not Behind the Iraq War - With Dr. David Wurmser

Nov 7, 2025
Dr. David Wurmser, a senior analyst for Middle East affairs and former advisor to Dick Cheney, delves into claims linking Israel to the Iraq War. He clarifies the intent of the controversial 'Clean Break' memo, asserting it didn’t advocate for U.S. wars but aimed to empower Israeli strategy. Wurmser discusses the psychological impacts of 9/11 on policy decisions and critiques the narrative of Jewish influence in neocon circles. He also addresses the rise of anti-Semitism and emphasizes Israel's critical role as a strategic partner for the West.
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ANECDOTE

Cheney As A Straight-Shooting Pragmatist

  • David Wurmser describes Dick Cheney as a blunt, highly intelligent Wyoming straight-shooter, not a manipulative villain.
  • Wurmser stresses Cheney wasn't the sort of person who could be easily hoodwinked by advisors or 'neocons'.
INSIGHT

Iraq Proposals Targeted Syria, Not Israel Alone

  • The Clean Break suggested changing Iraq to weaken Syria and considered restoring Hashemite influence as a means to regional stability.
  • Wurmser argues those proposals were about reshaping the regional balance, not a U.S.-directed invasion plan for Israel's benefit.
INSIGHT

Israel Warned Against Toppling Saddam

  • Ariel Sharon warned removing Saddam would embolden Iran and harm Israeli and American interests.
  • Wurmser highlights that many Israeli officials opposed the U.S. Iraq war for precisely that reason.
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