MS NOW Highlights

This video from MS NOW (April 11) covers several critical political and security developments involving the Trump administration:

Melania Trump and the Epstein Controversy (0:00 - 6:36):

• First Lady Melania Trump released a rare, independent statement distancing herself from Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell (0:15 - 0:41).
• Stephanie Grisham, former Chief of Staff to the First Lady, discusses the significance of this move, noting that Melania Trump is highly focused on maintaining a brand and legacy independent of her husband (3:43 - 4:14).
• The statement caught many in the White House off guard, and Grisham expresses skepticism regarding President Trump's claim that he was aware of the statement beforehand (0:42 - 1:05, 5:28 - 5:48).

Escalating Rhetoric and Legal Concerns Regarding Iran (6:37 - 16:21):

• The video criticizes President Trump’s recent social media threat regarding the potential destruction of an entire Iranian civilization, labeling it a violation of international law and a form of dehumanizing rhetoric that could signal permission for mass atrocities (6:37 - 9:00).
• Legal experts and historians, including Timothy Snyder, emphasize that such rhetoric invokes genocidal intent under the Geneva Conventions (9:01 - 10:04).
• Military leaders like General Joseph Votel and lawmakers like Senator Alyssa Slotkin warn that targeting civilian infrastructure constitutes war crimes and urge troops to exercise moral clarity and refuse illegal orders (10:58 - 13:31).

The War in Iran and Diplomatic Negotiations (16:22 - 26:56, 35:21 - 45:25):

• Analysts discuss the ongoing conflict, the role of the Strait of Hormuz as a source of leverage for Iran, and the strategic implications of Vice President JD Vance leading the delegation in Islamabad (18:02 - 21:16).
• John Brennan, former CIA Director, argues that the war is a failure of leadership rather than intelligence, as the intelligence community had accurate assessments that the regime was not close to obtaining a nuclear weapon, yet the administration proceeded anyway (35:21 - 42:30).

Political Fallout (26:57 - 35:20):

• The panel discusses the political impact of the war, noting that even some of Trump's traditional supporters and younger male voters are showing signs of dissent regarding his foreign policy and broken promises about avoiding new wars (27:11 - 29:31).

Trump FUMES After NATO Rejects Him

This video from The Young Turks features Ana Kasparian discussing reports that President Trump is angry after NATO allies refused to help the U.S. militarily in the Strait of Hormuz (0:00). Kasparian argues that NATO is right to refuse, as the allies did not ask for this conflict and are experiencing economic pain from it (0:40).

Key Points:

• Economic Conflict: Kasparian emphasizes that the war is impacting the global oil market, harming European allies (0:42).
• Allies' Perspective: The video highlights that European allies cautioned against the war and are now focusing on regional security and sovereignty (12:35).
• Israeli Involvement: The host alleges the war serves Israeli interests rather than American ones, calling Israel a liability to U.S. soldiers (3:54).
• Infrastructure Attacks: Reports indicate that Israel attacked Iran's South Pars gas field, a major escalation that threatens the global energy supply and drives up oil prices (14:17).

Netanyahu ‘Bullied’ Trump Into War: Ex-Obama Official on the War on Iran

This video features former Obama official Ben Rhodes discussing Israel's influence on U.S. foreign policy toward Iran, specifically arguing that Benjamin Netanyahu pressured Donald Trump into the current conflict (0:55). Rhodes contends that Netanyahu's goal is to turn Iran into a failed state to ensure Israeli dominance in the region (2:30).Key highlights from the discussion:

• Trump's Decision: Rhodes claims Trump was "bullied" into the war with no clear pretext or articulable U.S. national interest (1:53-2:15).
• Iran's Intentions: The targets in Iran are threats to Israel, not the United States (4:30).
• Democratic Accountability: Rhodes argues that any Democrat voting for war funding should be primaried, criticizing party leadership for failing to oppose the conflict (0:19, 21:08).
• Libya Intervention: Reflecting on the 2011 Libya intervention, Rhodes acknowledges mistakes made in pursuing regime change without congressional approval (14:46-15:02).
• Future Outlook: Rhodes expresses concern about regional conflagration rather than nuclear escalation, noting that Israel wants continued chaos in Iran (27:32, 29:43).

Trump Is MELTING DOWN Over The Iran War

This video from The Young Turks features hosts Cenk Uygur and Ana Kasparian discussing what they describe as mixed messages and contradictory statements from the Trump administration regarding the conflict with Iran.

Key Highlights:

• Contradicting Claims of Victory: The hosts highlight that while President Trump claimed to have "literally obliterated" Iran's military capabilities (0:03-0:33), he simultaneously admitted that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and requested help from other nations to open it (7:36-8:17).
• Misinformation on Negotiations: Kasparian challenges Trump’s assertion that Iran wants to negotiate, citing an interview with Iran's Foreign Minister who stated they have never asked for negotiations and are ready to defend themselves (3:54-4:37).
• Concerns Over Ground Troops: The hosts raise critical questions about the deployment of 5,000 U.S. troops, questioning why Israel is not sending ground troops for a conflict they argue Israel wanted (5:30-5:50).
• Military Vulnerabilities: The video outlines that U.S. bases in the Gulf region have been bombed, radar systems destroyed, and that both the U.S. and Israel are running low on missile interceptors (10:07-10:50).
• Economic Impacts: The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is causing global economic pain, increasing gas prices, and threatening food shortages due to disruptions in fertilizer shipments (6:56-7:30, 11:22-11:45).

MTG on Trump’s Iran war: ‘Why would an American president do that?’

This video features former Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene discussing her break with Donald Trump over foreign policy. Key points include:

• Opposition to the Iran War: (0:52 - 2:04) Greene argues that the current war with Iran is unprovoked, not in America's best interest, and contradicts the "America First" agenda she campaigned on.
• Generational Divide: (2:43 - 3:45) She highlights a split among voters, noting that while older generations may support the war based on news reports, younger generations (Gen X, millennials, Gen Z) are overwhelmingly against it.
• Impact on Trump's Alliance: (4:52 - 5:25) Greene suggests the ongoing conflict hurts the political prospects of Vice President JD Vance and other younger leaders in the administration who align with non-interventionist policies.
• Final Assessment: (8:58 - 9:56) She expresses disappointment that Trump's actions contradict his campaign promises, stating that she cannot support him when he turns his back on the "MAGA" movement.

Iran vows revenge for slain supreme leader despite Trump threat • FRANCE 24 English

The video discusses the escalating tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States, focusing on the aftermath of a confirmed death that led to missile strikes (0:20). Mehran Kamrava, Professor of Government at Georgetown University Qatar, shares his insights on the situation.

Key points from the discussion include:

Iranian Retaliation (0:54): Iran's Revolutionary Guard is attempting to show that it is committed to its promises of massive retaliation, as evidenced by successive strikes on Israel and some Persian Gulf states.

Silence of Iranian Proxies (1:15): Hezbollah, Iran-backed militia groups in Iraq (Katab Hezbollah and Hashtabi), and the Houthis have remained largely quiet. This could be due to military depletion or a reluctance to engage with the United States, fearing heavy consequences (1:36 - 2:35).

Iran's Military Capacity (2:58): The extent to which Iran can sustain its retaliatory strikes is unknown. While there's tough talk from Tehran and evidence of serious damage to civilian infrastructure in places like Tel Aviv, Manama, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai (3:07 - 3:44), it remains to be seen if Iran can maintain this level of attack for an extended period (4:02 - 4:09).

Prolonged War Strategy (4:11): Iran has long been preparing for a prolonged war, believing that neither Israel nor the United States can afford a long conflict or significant casualties (4:14 - 4:35).

Lack of Exit Strategy (4:50): Kamrava highlights the difficulty of ending wars once they've begun, noting historical examples like the U.S. in Iraq and Vietnam, and the Soviet Union in Afghanistan. He suggests that great powers can inflict damage but often struggle to "win" prolonged wars (5:04 - 5:40), potentially making this another "unending war" for the United States (5:41 - 5:51).

Iran Vs Israel: Iran Missile Strike Kills 28 | Revolutionary Guard Hits Israel, Gulf Bases

Drone footage reveals extensive damage to residential areas in Tel Aviv after an Iranian missile strike killed 28 people, according to Israeli emergency services. The attack came hours after the United States and Israel conducted their most extensive strikes on Iranian targets in decades. Iran denounced the action as unprovoked and illegal, retaliating with missiles fired at Israel and seven other countries, including Gulf nations hosting US military bases. Israel's Iron Dome failed to intercept the barrage, which reportedly included hypersonic missiles. The IDF announced that over 40 Iranian commanders were eliminated in their strikes, including senior leadership and 37 other top commanders. Iran's Revolutionary Guard capability to sustain such military offensives remains under close scrutiny as the conflict intensifies.

BOMBSHELL: Epstein Met Netanyahu In 1989

The video discusses the controversial ties between Jeffrey Epstein and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing a New York Times article from December of last year that went unnoticed (0:09-0:15).

Here's a breakdown of the key points:

Early Meetings (1:46-2:58): The New York Times reported that Epstein met with Netanyahu as early as 1989 when Netanyahu was a member of the Israeli Knesset. This meeting occurred during a trip to the Middle East aimed at promoting business ties between Israel and its neighbors.

JP Morgan Connection (3:49-4:22): In 2011, Epstein connected Netanyahu with JP Morgan Chase executives, as reported by The Daily Beast.

Netanyahu's Denials and Accusations (4:24-5:29): Despite evidence of meetings, Netanyahu denies close ties with Epstein and has publicly attacked his political opponent, Ahud Barack, for his extensive association with Epstein.

Israeli Surveillance at Epstein's Apartment (5:53-6:11): In 2016, the Israeli government began installing surveillance and security systems in Epstein's Manhattan apartment, purportedly due to Ahud Barack's frequent visits.

Epstein's Influence and Connections (6:52-7:42): Epstein was able to arrange meetings for Israeli officials, including Ahud Barack, with powerful figures like the French president, the head of the Rothschild bank, and Vladimir Putin, often to benefit Israel.

CIA Awareness and Iran-Contra (8:01-9:32): The hosts discuss leaked emails indicating that the CIA was aware of Epstein since the 1980s and that he was involved in laundering planes during the Iran-Contra affair, an operation in which Israeli intelligence was also allegedly involved.

Epstein's Motivation and Role (10:33-11:28): The video suggests that Epstein, despite his illicit activities, was a "hardcore Zionist" who willingly worked to benefit Israel, leading to many international deals on their behalf.

Honeypot Operation (13:28-14:21): The hosts conclude that the presence of cameras recording powerful individuals at Epstein's apartment indicates a "honeypot operation," a type of intelligence gathering, further suggesting the involvement of intelligence agencies.

Special Report: Iranian state media confirms Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed

This video reports on the confirmed death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran, during joint strikes by the United States and Israel (0:00). This event marks a monumental moment for the region, as Khamenei had been in power since 1989 (0:40).

Key points discussed in the video include:

Confirmation of death (0:00-0:30): Iranian state media has officially confirmed the Ayatollah's death, following earlier reports from President Trump and Israeli leaders.

Impact on Iran and the region (0:40-0:53): The death of the supreme leader is expected to completely change the game for Iran and has already initiated a regional war.

International reactions and implications (4:19-5:17): While some countries, like China and Russia, have condemned the attack, many nations, particularly those in the Gulf region, are privately gratified by the prospect of a new Iran. The long-standing regime's policies of sponsoring terrorism and challenging Western interests are highlighted.

Succession and internal dynamics (2:49-3:54): There is uncertainty about who will take charge in Iran. Potential figures include the current president and Ali Larijani, the national security head, but the role of a clerical successor is crucial. The future role of ethnic minorities within Iran is also discussed.

US and Israeli intelligence and strategy (9:32-11:11): The intelligence agencies of both the US and Israel are praised for their precision in targeting Iranian leadership. A surprising aspect of the operation was the decision to conduct the strikes in daylight, which is uncommon for such missions.

Life in Iran and public sentiment (14:45-16:43): The video paints a grim picture of daily life in Iran, characterized by economic hardship, scarcity of basic goods, and fear of protests being violently suppressed. Many Iranians are looking forward to change, although uncertainty and fear prevail.

BREAKING: Donald Trump says Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei killed in airstrikes | BBC News

The video reports on Donald Trump's announcement of the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in US and Israeli airstrikes (0:02). This news has escalated fears of an all-out war in the Middle East, with Iran retaliating by striking countries in the Gulf, including residential buildings in Dubai (0:41) and Tel Aviv (1:04).

Key points from the video:

Trump's Announcement (0:02): Donald Trump claimed Iran's Supreme Leader was killed, viewing it as justice and an opportunity for Iranians to overthrow the regime (0:24, 0:32).

Airstrikes and Retaliation (2:02): Israel and the US launched waves of airstrikes across Iran, hitting several sites (2:09). Iran responded with force, striking areas in Bahrain (2:21), Doha (2:29), and Dubai (2:36).

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's Status (2:58): While Donald Trump announced his death, Iran has rejected these claims, stating he is safe (3:56). Satellite images show his compound in Tehran in ruins (3:50).

US and Israeli Objectives (4:07): The US believes its power can impose regime change in Iran without a disaster, learning from the 2003 Iraq War (4:17). They see Iran's economic and political weakness as an opportunity (4:34).

Regional Impact and Concerns (5:07): The situation is described as dangerous with unpredictable consequences. The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting, with the Secretary General warning of uncontrollable consequences (7:34).

Iranian Public Sentiment (11:59): While some in Tehran cheered reports of Khamenei's death, many Iranians expressed anger over civilian casualties, particularly after reports of a strike on a girls' school (13:17).

International Involvement (13:59): The UK was not involved in the strikes but is supporting allies defensively (14:04). The Foreign Office set up a system for British nationals in the region to register their presence (15:53).

Military Presence (16:16): The US has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East, the largest deployment since the Iraq War (16:21).

Future Outlook (18:43): Successive US presidents have feared a protracted confrontation with Iran. Donald Trump hopes to achieve regime change through overwhelming air power without putting American boots on the ground (18:53).

'Follow the money': Maddow’s INSTANT REACTION to U.S. striking Iran

Rachel Maddow discusses the Trump administration's decision to strike Iran, expressing confusion and skepticism about the stated reasons for military action (0:00). She systematically debunks the administration's justifications, including claims about Iran's ballistic missile capabilities (0:35), uranium enrichment (1:30), and an obliterated nuclear program (2:42).

Maddow also dismisses the idea that Trump's actions are driven by empathy for Iranian protesters (4:10) or a genuine desire for regime change, highlighting the lack of U.S. support for such an uprising (9:51). Instead, she suggests that the war benefits Gulf Arab states—Iran's rivals—who have financial ties to the Trump family and administration members like Jared Kushner (10:22).

Ultimately, Maddow concludes that Trump's motives are likely personal, viewing war as "easy," "exciting," and a "change of subject" from domestic political issues (16:40), reminiscent of his past claims that President Obama might start a war for political gain (18:00).

The video suggests financial conflict motives are tied to the war with Iran, focusing on the financial interests of the Trump administration and family with Iran's rivals in the Gulf Arab states. The speaker points to several instances:

Qatar reportedly gave Donald Trump a $400 million plane (10:47 - 11:04).

The United Arab Emirates structured a crypto financial transaction that put $2 billion into the Trump family's new crypto firm (11:09 - 11:22).

The Saudis allegedly gave $2 billion to Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, at the end of Trump's first term (11:24 - 11:33).

Jared Kushner, who was recently paid billions by Iran's chief rival, was leading negotiations with Iran (12:18 - 12:33).

Steve Witoff, Trump's real estate friend, also sought money from Qatar's sovereign wealth fund (12:34 - 12:41).

The speaker argues that these financial relationships suggest that these Gulf Arab states, who want Iran removed as a regional rival, "appear to have rented the services of the United States military to start a war that they want" (13:48 - 14:12).

INTERVIEW: Corrupt, filthy, degenerates

In this interview, Chris Hedges and George Galloway discuss a range of pressing political issues, focusing on the implications of the Epstein files and the potential for a US war with Iran. Here’s a breakdown of the key topics: 

 The Epstein Affair and Political Accountability (0:49-12:54): Trump's involvement: Hedges notes Trump's frequent mentions in the Epstein files, the extensive redactions by FBI agents, and the concerted effort to block their release. He highlights how the public release of these documents, despite redactions, has been "cataclysmic." (0:51-2:07) 

International vs. US impact: The speakers observe that the Epstein files have caused more political trouble in the UK and Norway than in the United States, which they attribute to a "democratic deficit" in the US where political leaders are less accountable. (2:07-4:37) Corruption across the political spectrum: Hedges and Galloway discuss how the files expose corruption among both Democratic and Republican figures, including former Senator George Mitchell and figures close to Kier Starmer in the UK. (3:47-6:17) 

Public perception and societal decay: They discuss how the releases confirm public suspicions that rulers are "filthy degenerates" (6:06) and express concern about the lack of public outrage in the US, given the widespread issue of sexual abuse. (6:21-8:50) Unreleased documents and potential for destruction: Hedges mentions that millions of documents, including videos from Epstein's mansion, remain unreleased, and that the Epstein scandal could potentially destroy Trump's political career due to the deeply personal impact of sexual abuse on his base. (7:12-10:00) Trump's Mental Acuity and US Political Landscape (10:00-12:54):

 Decline in mental state: Galloway and Hedges discuss Trump's apparent mental decline, citing an example of him mistakenly claiming to impose tariffs on Switzerland's prime minister (a position that doesn't exist in Switzerland). (10:00-10:59) Dangerous implications: They express concern about this decline, especially given the US military's global presence and the potential for an impulsive commander-in-chief to make dangerous decisions. (10:42-10:59) Dismantling the state: Hedges warns that even if Trump is not fully in control, powerful figures around him are "dismantling the state" and "eviscerating the most basic civil liberties," leading to an authoritarian or police state. (11:15-12:54) The Threat of War with Iran (12:58-18:22): 

  Netanyahu's influence: The discussion shifts to Netanyahu's frequent visits to the US, pressing for war with Iran, similar to his push for the war with Iraq. (13:03-14:08) Israeli policy of failed states: Hedges explains that Israel's policy is to create failed states in the region (Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan) to increase its military dominance, seeing Iran as the last potent challenge. (13:44-14:05) Epstein's alleged Mossad links: Hedges suggests Epstein was "extremely close to the Israeli intelligence service" (14:33) and speculates whether Israel possesses compromising material on Trump. (14:50-15:03) Pentagon's opposition: Despite Israeli pressure, there is "heavy opposition" to a war with Iran within the American military establishment due to the potential for a costly "war of attrition" that Israel cannot endure. (15:20-16:14) Trump's reluctance: Hedges believes Trump is currently "leaning in the other direction" regarding war with Iran, supporting negotiations, but his inconsistency makes him unpredictable. (16:46-18:00) The Enigma of Jeffrey Epstein (18:39-22:33): His obscure rise: Both speakers express bewilderment at how Epstein, an uneducated individual with poor writing skills, rose to such importance and wealth, noting his involvement in various international affairs. (19:04-20:25) Exposing the global elite: Hedges concludes that the Epstein files reveal a "depraved, corrupt ruling global elite" (20:31) whose private lives are at odds with their public images. He states that as these elites are exposed globally, they are "rapidly imposing authoritarian states" to retain control. (21:12-22:33)