Former senior CIA officer Glenn Corn discusses the challenges the CIA faces in the Middle East, Russia, and Ukraine in 2024. Topics include intelligence failures, geopolitical issues, border security, and the secret side of diplomacy.
The importance of sharing knowledge and experiences beyond intelligence in the CIA profession and the need for work-life balance.
The need for accountability in the warning process for potential mistakes made in notifying American citizens in Israel about the threat from Hamas, and concern about Hamas' advantage in the international media.
Deep dives
Retirement from the CIA and Making a Difference
Glenn Corn, a retired CIA officer, discusses his decision to retire after 34 years of service and his desire to make a difference from outside the agency. He highlights the importance of sharing his knowledge and experiences with a broader audience and being able to teach topics beyond intelligence. Corn also reflects on the changing expectations of younger officers and the need for a balance between work and personal life in the intelligence profession.
Failure to Warn American Citizens in Israel
Glenn Corn discusses the failure to warn American citizens in Israel about the mounting threat from Hamas. He questions why there was not an update to the public notification about travel warnings, especially during major peace festivals. Corn emphasizes the need for a thorough examination and accountability for potential mistakes made in the warning process. He also raises concerns about the information war and the perception that Hamas has gained an upper hand over Israel in the international media.
Hezbollah's Role and Potential Escalation
The podcast delves into Hezbollah's role in the Israel-Gaza conflict and the potential for escalation. Glenn Corn highlights the proxy relationship between Hezbollah and Iran, with Hezbollah taking its orders from Tehran. He acknowledges the economic challenges faced by Lebanon and the impact that continued conflict with Israel could have on the Lebanese people. Corn also expresses concern about the international response to Hezbollah's attacks and the need for a balanced and effective response to future threats.
US Aid to Ukraine and the Border Issue
The discussion shifts to the funding issue for Ukraine and the potential role of the CIA in assisting Ukraine against Russia. Glenn Corn emphasizes the importance of US support for Ukraine's national security and the impact it has on morale among Ukrainian troops. He highlights the need for a unified approach in providing assistance and mentions the challenges that arise when the CIA takes on missions that should be handled by other government agencies. Corn also stresses the urgency of addressing the border issue and finding effective solutions to prevent the exploitation of border vulnerabilities.
Former senior CIA officer Glenn Corn talks with Jeff Stein about the agency’s new generation and its challenges in the Middle East, Russia, and Ukraine in 2024.