PDB Situation Report | May 25th, 2024: Bye Bye Butcher & China’s Dangerous Games
May 25, 2024
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Behnam Ben Taleblu discusses the death of 'The Butcher of Tehran' and its impact on Iran. The podcast also sheds light on China's military drills near Taiwan and the mental health challenges faced by US border patrol agents
Raisi's death reveals public disdain for regime, Iran's stagnant political climate.
China's military drills near Taiwan escalate tensions, US Border Patrol agents face mental health crisis.
Deep dives
Ricey's Controversial Legacy and Death's Impact on Iran
Abraham Ricey, known as the Butcher of Tehran, faced public celebrations upon his death due to his history of human rights abuses and loyalty to Iran's regime, rather than public grief. Ricey's presidency marked violent crackdowns on protesters, revealing deep-seated grievances with the regime among Iranians. His death, while sparking little mourning, highlights the stagnant expectations for change in the oppressive regime.
Iran's Succession Amid Ricey's Death
Following Ricey's demise, successor speculation intensifies, with Mushtaab al-Hamini touted as a potential candidate to maintain the hardline approach favored by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The potential shift in leadership signifies a crucial turning point in Iran's future political landscape, with implications for regional stability and internal dissent.
US-China Dynamics and Border Patrol Suicides
US-China relations have grown tense following allegations of China providing lethal aid to Russia amidst its conflict with Ukraine. Meanwhile, a poignant investigation highlights a surge in suicides among US Border Patrol agents, reflective of the harrowing mental toll resulting from witnessing and processing distressing migrant situations. The Biden administration's border policies and lack of support contribute to a disillusioned and overwhelmed Border Patrol force.
We'll start off today's program by looking at the life and death of the man known as "The Butcher of Tehran"--late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who met his fate in the mountains of northern Iran this week.
We'll be joined by Behnam Ben Taleblu of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies. He'll give us some insight into what Raisi's death means for the regime.
A little later, we'll turn to the Far East, where China has launched aggressive military drills surrounding its neighbor Taiwan. Author Gordon Chang shares his thoughts on the escalating tensions there.
Plus, we take a look at a silent crisis at America's southern border as the horrible realities on the ground take their toll on America's border patrol agents.
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