The Chris Hedges Report

Matt Kennard, an investigative journalist and co-founder of Declassified UK, dives deep into the dark side of the American Empire. He discusses his book, revealing how U.S. intervention often masks exploitation under the guise of democracy. Kennard shares insights from Bolivia’s struggle for sovereignty and critiques the complicity of mainstream media in promoting imperial narratives. He also examines the UK-US dynamic and highlights how corporate interests shape perceptions around sensitive issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Jordan Elgrably, a Franco-American writer and founder of the Marquez Review, discusses the emotional weight of Middle Eastern narratives in this insightful conversation. He unveils stories that reveal the humanity often obscured by conflict. They explore themes like exile, identity struggles of immigrants, and the stark realities of class disparity. Elgrably emphasizes the power of literature to elevate marginalized voices, critiquing the romanticized views of immigration and advocating for deeper understanding of cultural complexities.

Nolan Higdon and Allison Butler, co-authors of "Surveillance Education," delve into the alarming reality of surveillance technologies in schools. They highlight how tools designed for safety often infringe on student privacy and disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Higdon discusses the idea of treating students as data points within a surveillance capitalist framework. Butler underscores the lack of consent students face, revealing the darkness behind the tech marketed for educational purposes. Their insights raise critical questions about privacy rights and the ethics of modern education.

Jeremy Loffredo, a reporter for The Grayzone, shares his gripping experiences from Israel and the occupied territories. He recounts his harrowing three-day detention after covering missile attacks, revealing the dangers journalists face amidst extreme censorship. Loffredo describes shocking attitudes he encountered, where he witnessed racism and genocidal rhetoric among Israelis. He highlights the plight of Palestinians, particularly a brave woman who spoke out despite fear of reprisal, underscoring the resilience versus the brutal realities of the ongoing conflict.

Kshama Sawant, a socialist activist and former Seattle City Council member renowned for her work on workers' rights, discusses the pivotal 2024 election and the formation of Workers Strike Back. She argues for a strong anti-war movement and critiques the complicity of major parties in ongoing conflicts. Sawant emphasizes the importance of honest campaigning, suggesting even a small vote for candidates like Jill Stein can galvanize the working class. She shares insights from her victory for a $15 minimum wage, highlighting grassroots activism's power in transforming political landscapes.

Col. Lawrence Wilkerson, a retired Army colonel and former chief of staff to Colin Powell, joins the discussion with his wealth of experience on American foreign policy. He predicts a Trump presidency will emphasize a reluctance for war yet notes his unwavering support for Israel, raising fears of a potential conflict with Iran. The conversation delves into the ideological rifts within Trump’s administration, the U.S. military’s discontent, and the complex impact of nationalism on foreign policy strategy, particularly concerning Ukraine and the Middle East.

Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in the Palestinian Territories, details her findings on genocide against Palestinians. She discusses the systematic violence and destruction faced by the population in Gaza, emphasizing the psychological and physical torture inflicted. Albanese critiques the narratives of self-defense used by Israel and highlights the urgent need for international accountability. The conversation also touches on historic parallels to genocide and the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging listeners to recognize the ongoing struggle for human rights.

John Mearsheimer, a prominent political scientist and University of Chicago professor, brings his realist perspective to the escalating crisis in the Middle East. He discusses Israel's ongoing violence and its impacts on regional dynamics, highlighting unexpected alliances forming between Shia and Sunni groups against Israel's actions. Mearsheimer also critiques U.S. support for Israel, examining its historical roots and geopolitical implications. The conversation reveals how current events are shifting long-standing political landscapes and fostering new coalitions.

Renowned political activist Cornel West joins the discussion, bringing his profound insights as an independent presidential candidate. He critiques the American political duopoly, arguing both parties perpetuate systemic injustices. West emphasizes the need for grassroots movements to challenge oppression and highlights the resilience of marginalized communities. He explores the moral failures in leadership, the importance of youth activism, and the impact of Black intellectuals on American identity, calling for unity against rising fascism and a more equitable future.

Lara Marlowe, a seasoned journalist and author, shares her profound insights into the world of reporting from conflict zones, shaped by her collaboration with the legendary Robert Fisk. She reflects on Fisk's meticulous methods, like sweet-talking a Telex operator to file an urgent story during a crisis. Marlowe explores the complexities of covering tragedies, such as the Iranian Airbus shootdown, and emphasizes the importance of empathy in journalism. Their experiences reveal the intricate dance between human suffering and the pursuit of truth in the Middle East's tumultuous landscape.