Morning Joe

Mark Hurtling, a seasoned retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General, brings his expertise to a riveting discussion on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. He highlights the U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the complex diplomatic landscape that accompanies them. Hurtling delves into the shifting public opinion on military actions and the constitutional implications of these operations. The episode also covers the repercussions for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy, providing insights into modern warfare and strategic decision-making.

Ed Luce, U.S. national editor and columnist for the Financial Times, joins Joe Scarborough to discuss his biography of Zbigniew Brzezinski, highlighting his strategic brilliance and character complexities. Luce elaborates on Brzezinski's influential role in U.S. foreign policy and his evolution from a hardline strategist to a respected voice critiquing the Iraq War. The conversation touches on Brzezinski's accurate Cold War predictions and the vital lessons contemporary leaders can learn about effective statecraft and political communication.

The podcast dives into President Trump's upcoming decision on U.S. military engagement in the Iran conflict, with critical insights from the White House. It unpacks the complex geopolitical tensions involving the U.S., Iran, and Israel, stressing the urgency for a long-term strategy. Legal battles over immigration and presidential powers add another layer to the discussion, highlighting potential impacts on state funding. The dialogue also touches on the global refugee crisis and the importance of compassionate diplomacy amid ongoing humanitarian crises.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he was still considering a U.S. military strike on Iran’s nuclear sites. “I may do it. I may not do it,” he said. “Nobody knows what I’m going to do.” The Morning Joe panel discusses the president's options in the region. This episode aired June 19, 2025, from 6-10 AM 

Jonathan Lemire, a political analyst from NBC News, joins Ed Luce, national editor at The Financial Times, and investigative reporter Mark Mazzetti of The New York Times to dissect the escalating tensions surrounding Trump’s potential military actions in Iran. They explore the complexities of U.S. involvement, the divided opinions within Trump's MAGA base, and the possible repercussions of military strategies. The conversation also highlights Trump's inner conflicts and the implications of political violence in contemporary America.

David Ignatius, a Washington Post columnist, and David French, a New York Times opinion writer, dive into the precarious landscape of U.S. foreign policy towards Iran. They dissect Trump's stance on Israel’s aspiration to oust the Ayatollah. The discussion also highlights the MAGA movement's internal rifts on Middle Eastern affairs, balancing isolationism with support for Israel. Perspectives from within Israel and complexities of judicial philosophies add depth, revealing how Trump's influence shapes the future of conservatism and American military identity.

Jim VandeHei, Co-founder and CEO of Axios, shares his insights on the intersection of domestic politics and AI, warning about the risks of advanced technology. David Ignatius, a columnist for The Washington Post, discusses rising tensions between Israel and Iran and the implications for international stability. They dive into the unsettling rise of political violence in the U.S., reflecting on a tragic shooting in Minnesota. The conversation highlights the need for constructive discourse and raises alarm over America's competitive race in AI development.

Keir Simmons, NBC News chief international correspondent, shares live updates from Dubai while Katty Kay, co-host and political analyst, dives into the escalating military tensions between Israel and Iran. They analyze Israel's major strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and the potential fallout, including the complexities of U.S. involvement. The discussion also touches on the shifting dynamics in the Middle East and highlights important topics like the impact on civil unrest in the U.S. and advocacy for undocumented workers.

Anti-ICE protests spread across the country

Curfew takes effect in downtown Los Angeles amid protests against ICE raids