The Jimmy Dore Show The REAL REASON Trump Called Off Iran Bombing Explained By Steve Bannon! w/ Max Blumenthal
Jan 19, 2026
Max Blumenthal, an investigative journalist from The Grayzone, joins to dissect Steve Bannon's assertion that Trump has evaded bombings of Iran. Max offers compelling insights into how Iranian support is actually strengthening, contrary to Bannon's narrative. He emphasizes that military intervention could backfire. Scott Ritter, a former military intelligence officer, shares his alarming experiences with debanking and critiques U.S. intelligence's overreach. The episode blends hard-hitting analysis with unexpected humor, thanks to a surprise call from George Clooney!
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External Actors Fueled Iranian Street Violence
- Max Blumenthal argues Trump was goaded by Israeli cutouts into promising help to Iranian protesters, echoing tactics used in Syria.
- He says that message escalated violence to create a casus belli for U.S. intervention.
Intelligence And Logistics Contributed To Trump's Pause
- Max says intelligence briefings showed protests were largely over and U.S. lacked assets for a large strike, prompting Trump's pause.
- He also warns Israel's missile defenses and U.S. intercept stocks were strained from prior exchanges with Iran.
Political Donors Drive Hardline Iran Policy
- Max and Jimmy explain powerful pro-Israel donors like Miriam Adelson influence Trump toward regime change in Iran.
- They argue this financial leverage explains administration willingness to escalate despite risks.
