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Ray McGovern: BREAKING: Iran Strikes US Erbil Airbase in Preemptive Attack

Sep 20, 2026 · 49m

Summary

Ray McClourney analyzes escalating tensions in West Asia, noting Saudi Arabia's vulnerability after Houthi strikes and the US running out of ammunition. He argues that contrary to Trump's claims, intelligence confirms Iran has not pursued nuclear weapons since 2003, making the "arc of resistance" a more significant threat. The discussion also covers the Russia-Ukraine war, where Putin remains prudent despite drone attacks, and the potential for Trump to use nuclear threats to protect Netanyahu from Epstein files.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: Perk and Mod.com Introduction and context for the interview Trump's ultimatum to Iran and Gulf tensions Saudi Arabia's vulnerability and Houthi attacks Potential for further escalation and Houthi capabilities Iran's nuclear stance and US intelligence history Iran's strategic leverage via strait blockades The 2007 intelligence estimate that prevented war Israel's role in the conflict and US national security Regional alliances and the Mecca defense pact Predictions for immediate geopolitical developments Epstein files, Netanyahu, and Israeli nuclear threats Managing Trump's unpredictability and health concerns Diplomacy with Putin and Xi Jinping Sponsor: Perk and Mod.com Speculation on US domestic political instability The 'Arc of Resistance' and Houthi success Avoiding nuclear escalation and keeping heads cool Russia's strategy in Ukraine and NATO Article 5 Tariffs, economic pressure, and Saudi-Israel relations Sponsors: Liquid IV and Colagua Plus
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