Ex-CIA: Exposing the Politicization of the CIA & Potential War with Iran | Mike Baker
Jan 28, 2024
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Former CIA officer and podcast host Mike Baker joins Dave Rubin to discuss the politicization of intelligence agencies, rise of diversity initiatives in the CIA, conflicts in Yemen, Israel, and Ukraine, Iran's role in supporting proxy groups, China's strategies to weaken the US, and the potential for war with Iran.
The importance of apolitical intelligence agencies and the negative impact of politicization.
Iran's support for proxy groups like the Houthis, Hamas, and Hezbollah and the potential consequences of their actions.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine between Russia and Ukraine and the need for continued support to prevent Russian aggression.
Deep dives
Podcast Summary: Background and Experience of Mike Baker
In this podcast episode, former CIA officer and security expert Mike Baker discusses his background in the agency and his transition to the private sector. He highlights the different segments within the CIA and emphasizes the importance of hiring smart and capable individuals. Baker also touches upon his involvement in TV and film work, as well as the challenges and rewards of starting a podcast.
Podcast Summary: Issues with the CIA and Political Influence
Baker delves into his perspective on the CIA's political involvement, highlighting his own experiences while serving in the agency. He emphasizes that during his time there, political discussions were rare, and the agency was primarily focused on its mission of national security. Baker expresses concern about the politicization of the agency and the negative impact it can have. He believes that the agency should maintain a non-political approach to execute its duties effectively.
Podcast Summary: Current Global Issues: Yemen, Iran, and Taiwan
The podcast explores several global issues, including the conflict in Yemen, Iran's involvement, and its impact on global shipping. Baker explains the motivations behind Iran's support for Houthi rebels and the potential consequences of their actions. He also discusses the political situation in Taiwan and China's desire for reunification. Baker highlights the challenges in dealing with China and emphasizes the need for a sensible policy that addresses the various aspects of the relationship, including technology and information warfare.
Resolution in the Middle East
The speaker discusses the need for a strong deterrence strategy towards Iran, targeting the regime itself rather than its proxies. They argue that unless there is a targeted approach to Iran, the instability and terrorism in the region, exemplified by groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, will continue. While they acknowledge the potential messy consequences of a war with Iran, they suggest that there are countries in the region that would support a strong response to the regime.
Challenges in Ukraine
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine between Russia and Ukraine is examined. The speaker notes that winter affects the pace of the war, with both sides hunkering down in their respective positions. The Ukrainian forces focus on long-range strategic strikes against Russian supply lines and command centers, while Russia targets Ukrainian energy sources to freeze them out. The speaker emphasizes the need for continued support to Ukraine to prevent Russian aggression, but also highlights the lack of a clear resolution or exit plan for the conflict.
Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks to former CIA officer and host of “The President's Daily Brief” podcast Mike Baker about global conflicts and the role of intelligence agencies; the importance of apolitical intelligence agencies; the rise of DEI policies within the CIA; the current perception of the CIA and FBI as political organizations; the real goal of the Houthis; the ongoing conflicts in Yemen, Israel, and Ukraine; Iran's role in supporting proxy groups like the Houthis, Hamas, and Hezbollah; why a war with Iran is possible; China's long-term strategies to weaken the United States, including its Belt and Road Initiative and efforts to control critical mineral resources; and much more.