Scott Horton Show - Just the Interviews

Matthew Hoh, a former Marine and State Department whistleblower, shares his insights on the war in Afghanistan and critiques General David Petraeus's legacy. He discusses his initial skepticism towards the antiwar movement, urging veterans to document their experiences for future advocacy. Hoh explains how American military strategies often backfire, citing the detrimental effects of the Iraq surge model in Afghanistan. He also highlights the disconnect between military leadership and the realities on the ground, emphasizing a culture of conformity that stifles dissent.

Dr. Anas Ahmed, a physician from Ohio, shares his harrowing experiences after deploying to Gaza with the Palestinian American Medical Association in 2025. He discusses the chaos of working at Al-Aqsa Hospital amid bombings and mass casualties, revealing the emotional and physical toll on medical staff. The heartbreaking realities include limited supplies, high infection risks, and the disproportionate impact on children. Ahmed calls for empathy towards the victims and emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

In this discussion, Jason Jones, a film producer and activist leading The Vulnerable People Project, shares insights on delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and the complexities involved. He recounts his experiences in aiding vulnerable communities and navigating political tensions. Personal stories spotlight the resilience of those in crisis, while reflections on moral responsibilities and the emotional impact of war underscore the importance of empathy. Jones emphasizes innovative strategies to support vulnerable populations amidst ongoing despair.

Wally Rashid, an innovative entrepreneur and analyst, joins the discussion on organizing the Freedom Flotilla to deliver crucial aid to Gaza amid ongoing conflict. He reveals the recent drone attacks faced by the flotilla, highlighting the urgent need for non-violent humanitarian efforts. Rashid also delves into the story of Congressman James Traficant, who faced imprisonment due to his criticism of U.S. policies toward Israel, showcasing the influence of lobbying on political decisions. Their conversation uncovers the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader implications for the region.

William Van Wagenen, author of "Creative Chaos: Inside the CIA’s Covert War to Topple the Syrian Government," provides a gripping analysis of the Arab Spring's roots and the Syrian Civil War. He explains how grassroots uprisings were often orchestrated by external forces rather than being spontaneous. The conversation dives into the neoconservative influences on U.S. foreign policy, the critical role of past events like the 1982 Hama uprising, and the profound impact of social media and WikiLeaks in igniting protests across the Arab world.

Mark Lynch, a state senator and businessman from South Carolina, is on a mission to unseat the long-serving Lindsey Graham. He shares his motivations for running, emphasizing integrity and constitutional governance. Lynch discusses his pro-life stance and critiques the current foreign policy, especially regarding Israel, aligning his campaign with the desires of local constituents. He also argues for political accountability, encouraging voters to seek candidates who truly resonate with their values, particularly in light of the consequences of military interventions.

William Van Wagenen, a research fellow at the Libertarian Institute and author of 'Creative Chaos,' delves into the CIA's covert operations in the Middle East. He discusses his motivation for exploring the Syrian conflict, challenging mainstream narratives about U.S. influence. The conversation reveals how U.S. intelligence has interacted with radical groups, fueling violence in Iraq and Syria. Van Wagenen also examines the geopolitical stakes surrounding ethnic tensions, particularly among Kurdish factions and Yazidi communities, shedding light on the complex web of manipulation in the region.

Matt Wolfson, an investigative journalist known for his insights on political influences, discusses the funding behind attacks on Congressman Thomas Massie. He reveals key individuals and organizations driving these efforts, linking them to a broader network focused on maintaining Israel's interests in U.S. foreign policy. They explore the disconnect between elite donors and grassroots supporters, critique the commodification of support for Israel in media, and emphasize the need for authentic political advocacy amid shifting dynamics in conservative circles.

Larry Johnson, a former CIA officer and intelligence analyst, delves into the pivotal Trump-Putin summit and its implications for global geopolitics. He discusses the intricacies of U.S.-Russia relations, highlighting how perceptions of Putin have evolved over time. Johnson critiques neocon influence and the ongoing dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing Russia's strategic gains. The conversation also touches on the complexities of nuclear diplomacy and the consequences of major policy decisions in the realm of arms control.

Dan McKnight is the founder of bringourtroopshome.us and a veteran of the global war on terror. At Ron Paul's birthday barbecue, he, along with Liam McCollum and Lee Deming, discusses the crucial 'Defend the Guard' legislation. They emphasize the importance of congressional approval for military engagements and the role of grassroots activism in challenging federal authority. Personal anecdotes highlight the human cost of war and the need for veterans to lead advocacy efforts for legislative change, ensuring their voices resonate in political spheres.