Judging Freedom

Ray McGovern, a former CIA analyst and political commentator, joins Larry Johnson, a counter-terrorism expert, to dissect pressing global issues. They delve into Hamas's enhanced military tactics and Israeli troop morale amid conflict, questioning the impacts on civilian safety. The duo criticizes media narratives surrounding civilian casualties and discusses the complexities of U.S.-Iran relations, spotlighting the challenges of U.S. foreign policy. They also explore Trump's meeting with Netanyahu and the shifting dynamics of military might between the U.S., Russia, and China.

John Mearsheimer, a renowned political scientist and professor at the University of Chicago, delves into the complexities of U.S.-Israel relations. He discusses the fallout from Trump's negotiations with Netanyahu and their impact on both nations. The podcast also explores the contentious Gaza situation, highlighting moral responsibilities amid geopolitical tensions. Mearsheimer critiques U.S. mediation efforts and analyzes the intricate dynamics surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, scrutinizing global strategies and their potential consequences.

Lawrence Wilkerson, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and critic of foreign policy, delves into provocative topics. He discusses the moral and legal ramifications of U.S. deportation practices, highlighting historical parallels. The ethics of flight attendants escorting detainees is explored, revealing deep human rights concerns. Wilkerson also examines the controversial idea of deporting American citizens for violent crimes, questioning constitutional rights. He critiques presidential power and its threats to democracy, and reflects on global tensions, particularly the Gaza conflict.

Glenn Diesen, a political expert at the University of South Norway, dives deep into contentious geopolitics. He discusses the controversial origins of the Ukraine war, rooted in a 2014 U.S.-backed coup, and critiques NATO's expansion. The conversation also highlights the risks of free speech in academia across Europe, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Diesen calls for a reevaluation of Europe's aggressive stance towards Russia, emphasizing the need for restored diplomacy amid shifting global dynamics.

Max Blumenthal, a journalist and founder of The Grayzone, shares insights on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and critiques U.S. foreign policy under Trump and Netanyahu. He discusses the shifting narratives in U.S. Gaza policy, the fallout from Netanyahu's PR campaign after recent attacks, and the tragic story of a young boy affected by the conflict. Blumenthal also highlights the role of former IDF personnel within Silicon Valley, questioning their impact on social media narratives and public discourse.

Phil Giraldi, a former CIA officer and commentator known for his insights on national security, discusses the current state of U.S. geopolitics. He delves into the tense dynamics between Trump, Netanyahu, and Iran, examining the thin line between diplomacy and aggression. Giraldi raises red flags about government monitoring of social media under the DHS, warning of free speech threats. He also critiques the complexities of accountability in international conflicts, especially around U.S. support for Israel, highlighting the systemic inequalities affecting marginalized groups.

Pepe Escobar, an independent geopolitical analyst and journalist, dives into the intricate alliances between Russia, China, and Iran. He discusses the potential fallout of U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran and the complexities surrounding the Iran nuclear deal. The chat highlights Trump's tariff policies and their geopolitical consequences, revealing tensions in U.S. foreign relations. Escobar critiques Netanyahu's disappointment in Trump's diplomatic strategies and uncovers silent resistance within the U.S. government against military intervention.

Gilbert Doctorow, a political analyst specializing in US-Russia relations, shares intriguing insights on how the Kremlin views Donald Trump. He discusses the blend of respect and skepticism towards Trump, contrasting it with support for Biden. Doctorow dives into the complexities of U.S. leadership perceptions and the delicate geopolitics involving Iran and Israel. He also reflects on the implications of Trump's musings, like his interest in Greenland, and the ongoing challenges Putin faces in Ukraine, highlighting the need for dialogue in turbulent times.

Karen Kwiatkowski, a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and political commentator, shares her critical views on U.S. involvement in Ukraine. She discusses the motivations behind U.S. financial support and the influence of the military-industrial complex. Kwiatkowski examines Ukrainian President Zelensky's leadership challenges amid extreme nationalism and external pressures. She also critiques the tensions between the U.S. and China, exploring tariffs as potential acts of war and the implications of engaging in proxy conflicts with nuclear powers.

Aaron Maté, a journalist known for his coverage of U.S. foreign policy, dives deep into pressing issues around free speech and government censorship. He discusses the alarming threats to journalists in conflict zones, especially in Gaza, and critiques the complicity of the U.S. government. Maté also sheds light on the complexities of Israeli law and its impact on Palestinian rights, alongside a thought-provoking examination of free speech under different administrations. His insights on immigration policies further highlight the ongoing struggles for civil liberties.