Geopolitical Economy Report

US & Israel support protests to destabilize Iran: Trump calls for regime change

Jan 16, 2026
The discussion reveals that the U.S. supports violent protests in Iran, with claims of Israeli forces arming demonstrators to ignite regime change. Trump openly backs these protests while threatening military action, highlighting historical meddling in Iran since the 1953 CIA coup. The podcast explores Iran's strategic alliances with BRICS and Russia, contrasting U.S. interests in the Middle East. It draws parallels between current unrest and past interventions in Libya and Syria, shedding light on the volatile dynamics of foreign influence and internal conflict.
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INSIGHT

Foreign-Backed Violence Masquerading As Protests

  • Ben Norton argues Western media mislabels violent, foreign-armed rioters in Iran as peaceful protesters.
  • He claims Israel and likely the U.S. are arming insurgents to destabilize Iran and push regime change.
ANECDOTE

1953 Coup Sets Historical Pattern

  • Norton recounts the 1953 CIA/UK coup that overthrew Mossadegh and installed the Shah as a Western-backed dictator.
  • He uses this history to show a pattern of U.S. interference in Iran's sovereignty.
INSIGHT

Geostrategic Motives Behind U.S. Policy

  • Norton links U.S. strategic doctrine to controlling geostrategic regions like the Middle East and preventing rival powers' dominance.
  • He frames Iran as an obstacle to U.S. regional hegemony because of its location and resources.
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