The Uprising in Iran

Key Takeaways

Iran faces a brutal crackdown with thousands killed and arrested in protests.
President Trump issued warnings to Iran, prompting discussion of potential US intervention.
US kinetic and cyber options are considered for pressuring the Iranian regime.
Steve Hilton and Gloria Romero launched their California gubernatorial campaign.
Debate continued on the Federal Reserve's independence and presidential power.
The case of imprisoned activist Jimmy Lai was highlighted, seeking his release.

Over 5,000 Iranians have reportedly been killed by security forces during ongoing protests.
President Trump issued warnings to the Iranian regime regarding its violent crackdown.
Democratic Senator John Fetterman expressed support for targeted actions against Iran's nuclear program.
The host challenged media reports suggesting internal administration disagreement about military action against Iran.

A guest suggested potential actions include 'heavy munitions striking barracks, bases, certainly missile production facilities' in Iran.
The possibility of using existing aircraft and missiles from Europe, without an aircraft carrier, was raised.
Dr. Michael Oren, former Israeli Ambassador, expressed skepticism about the protests' ability to topple the regime due to security forces' extensive resources.
Dr. Oren speculated about a diplomatic deal to replace Iran's current leadership with elements more favorable to the U.S., benefiting America financially and strategically.
Dr. Oren discussed the potential effectiveness of President Trump's military threats against Iran, suggesting a negotiated settlement as the ultimate goal.

Steve Hilton introduced Gloria Romero as his running mate for the California gubernatorial race.
Romero, a former Democratic Senator, left the party due to conflicts over school choice advocacy and perceived backroom dealings.
Hilton praised Romero's past effectiveness as a Democratic leader and emphasized their shared focus on education policy through 'Golden Together.'
Hilton criticized 16 years of one-party rule in California, citing the state's highest poverty and unemployment rates.

Senator Tom Cotton estimated thousands of deaths in Iran's ongoing protests, supporting President Trump's threats against the regime.
Senator Cotton asserted that the U.S. military possesses global operational capabilities, even without a carrier strike group in the Middle East.
Cotton assessed the Iranian regime as the weakest it has been since 1979 due to internal discontent and external pressure.
President Trump defended his record of actions against adversaries, emphasizing that a world governed by force takes notice when America displays strength.

Mark Dubowitz described the situation in Iran as extraordinary, with millions protesting and thousands killed in two weeks.
Dubowitz outlined three potential actions for President Trump: targeting security forces like the IRGC and Basij, improving Starlink internet connectivity, and taking out Iran's ballistic missile program.
He estimated Iran's security forces include 150,000 IRGC members and millions in the Basij militia.
Dubowitz expressed concern that without U.S. intervention, protests may diminish due to repression, potentially leading to a more dangerous regime.

Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery (Ret.) praised the Arleigh Burke destroyer as the best large surface combatant in the world.
The Arleigh Burke class is highlighted for its successful production, cost-effectiveness due to scale, and future-proofing with Aegis system upgrades.
Discussion included purchasing nine ships to ensure predictable funding for shipyards.
The feasibility and appropriation of President Trump's proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget were questioned.

Admiral Mark Montgomery clarified that Starlink technology requires ground receivers or connected users to function.
He also addressed the capability of interrupting jamming efforts through cyber or kinetic tools.
Earlier discussion raised questions about Starlink's effectiveness in Iran compared to Ukraine due to potential government interference.

Hugh Hewitt and David Bahnsen debated the structural independence of the Federal Reserve.
Hewitt argued against the Fed's independence based on an originalist interpretation of the Constitution and presidential Article II powers.
Bahnsen acknowledged jurisdictional ambiguity, advocating for legislative and judicial review to ensure constitutional adherence.
The discussion touched on the president's power to remove and replace Federal Reserve governors.

Hugh Hewitt stated President Trump raised Jimmy Lai's case with Xi Jinping, but received no response.
Sebastian Lai expressed gratitude but fears his father may die in prison given difficult conditions and trial delays.
Lai described his father as a consistent advocate for freedom and democracy in Hong Kong, arguing his release would be beneficial for China.
Sebastian Lai urged listeners to write to representatives and share his father's story, noting his sister can no longer return to Hong Kong.