System Update with Glenn Greenwald

Michael Tracey, a journalist known for his independent takes on politics, reports live from the NATO Summit in The Hague. He shares insights on key diplomatic developments, including U.S. military operations in Iran. The discussion delves into NATO's challenges surrounding international law, emphasizing the delicate balance member states must maintain. Additionally, Tracey reveals discrepancies in casualty figures presented during a NATO briefing, spotlighting ongoing communication issues regarding the human cost of the conflict.

Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Mosab Abu Toha shares poignant insights on life in Gaza, detailing the humanitarian crisis and the personal toll of ongoing violence. He reflects on the erasure of Palestinian lives and the crucial need for storytelling in times of conflict. Meanwhile, the discussion turns to Zohran Mamdani's stunning primary victory, which symbolizes a generational shift within the Democratic Party and challenges the political status quo in New York. The dialogue encapsulates the interplay between local politics and broader social issues.

In this discussion, John Mearsheimer, a Professor of International Relations at the University of Chicago, dives into the complexities of U.S. foreign policy concerning Israel and Iran. He critiques Trump's attempts to renegotiate the Iran nuclear deal and assesses the military dynamics between Israel and Iran amidst the ongoing destruction in Gaza. Mearsheimer explores the resilience of the Iranian regime against aerial assaults, the strategic limits of military supplies, and the ethical contradictions in U.S. support for Israel, all while shedding light on the emotional toll of journalists covering these global conflicts.

Tensions rise as a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is announced, but the real impact remains uncertain. The podcast challenges the portrayal of Iran as a reckless actor, diving into historical contexts and the nuances of its nuclear intentions. It scrutinizes U.S. foreign policy loyalty to Israel and the implications of these alliances on global stability. The conversation also calls for clearer discussions on U.S.-Israel relations and sheds light on the often misunderstood complexities of Iranian motivations and actions.

Glenn dives into pressing questions about the potential for war with Iran and the growing executive power in U.S. politics. He discusses the implications of congressional power erosion regarding foreign policy and critiques the unilateral decisions made by presidents. The conversation touches on the viability of new political parties amidst a disconnect with voter concerns. Expect engaging insights paired with a lighthearted tennis Q&A, making for an entertaining and thought-provoking listen!

Tensions rise as Tulsi Gabbard finds herself at odds with Trump's hawkish administration, especially after being excluded from key discussions on Iran. The moral implications of military actions come to light, particularly concerning the bombing of hospitals in both Israel and Gaza. The podcast dives into Gabbard's political transformation from a Democratic star to a Trump surrogate, highlighting her critiques of the DNC. It also questions the ethical standards applied to military strikes on civilian infrastructure, sparking debate on international reactions.

Ted Cruz, the Republican Senator from Texas, joins Tucker Carlson to examine the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran and Israel. They discuss the troubling trend of military advocacy without understanding local dynamics, revealing the dangers of repeating past mistakes. The conversation dives into how evangelical beliefs shape political support for Israel, as well as the influence of foreign interests on American politics. The dynamic also highlights the shifting allegiances in U.S. foreign policy and the implications for future relations.

In this discussion, investigative journalist Ken Klippenstein dives into Donald Trump's increasingly assertive ownership of the U.S. involvement in the Iran conflict. He critiques Trump’s reliance on controversial intelligence and military rhetoric, highlighting the complexities of international law. Klippenstein also explores the intersection of faith and politics in U.S. support for Israel, and discusses the risks of escalating tensions, along with the intricate diplomatic maneuvers between the U.S. and Israeli leaders concerning Iran.

The podcast dissects the unsettling parallels between U.S. military involvement in Iraq and current tensions with Iran. It highlights bipartisan support for military actions, revealing a history of propaganda and deception. The rhetoric surrounding Iran's nuclear capabilities is critiqued, exposing emotional appeals influencing public perception. The role of media in shaping aggressive foreign policy narratives is scrutinized, particularly regarding the Israel lobby's impact on Congress. The discussion raises moral questions about prioritizing warfare over pressing domestic concerns.

Glenn welcomes Mohammad Marandi, an Iranian-American academic based in Tehran, alongside Cato Institute experts Justin Logan and John Hoffman. They delve into the U.S.'s role in Israel's military actions against Iran, examining the local reactions in Iran and the broader implications for foreign policy. The guests analyze the risks of escalation, the historical context of this conflict, and critique Western narratives about Iran. They emphasize the urgency for restraint in U.S. military strategies amidst rising tensions.