UNPRECEDENTED: Iran Launches MASSIVE Attack on Israel

Added: Apr 16, 2024

In this podcast episode, Ben Shapiro discusses the recent conflict between Iran and Israel, highlighting the significant escalation of tensions between the two nations. He points out that Iran launched a massive attack on Israel, firing 170 drones, 30 cruise missiles, and 120 ballistic missiles, which is considered an act of war. This attack was a culmination of Iran's long-standing use of proxy terror groups to target Israel, including Hezbollah in the north, Hamas in the south, and the Houthis in Yemen.

Iran's Motives and Actions

Shapiro explains that Iran's attack on Israel was a response to Israel's killing of General Muhammad Reza, who had greenlit previous attacks on Israel. Iran felt the need to demonstrate strength to its own people and saw an opportunity to flex its muscles due to perceived weaknesses in the Biden administration's stance on Israel. The attack was also a way for Iran to prevent a potential alliance between Israel and Saudi Arabia, which would have posed a significant threat to Iran's interests in the region.

Israel's Defense and Response

Despite the massive scale of the attack, Israel successfully intercepted 99% of the incoming ordinance, with assistance from the United States, the UK, and France. The defensive measures taken by Israel, including the Iron Dome system, proved to be highly effective in protecting Israeli territory and holy sites. While some ballistic missiles did cause minor damage to an Israeli airbase, there were no significant casualties or damage to Israel's F-35 fleet.

US Involvement and Betrayal

Shapiro highlights a report that suggests the US was aware of Iran's planned attack on Israel and even greenlit a limited attack to prevent further escalation. This revelation raises questions about the US's commitment to its ally, Israel, and the implications of allowing an attack on a sovereign nation within certain limits. The Biden administration's approach to the conflict has been criticized for potentially undermining Israel's security and emboldening Iran.

Iran's Response and Propaganda

Following the attack, Iran threatened to launch a larger attack if Israel retaliated and warned the US against supporting any Israeli counterattack. Despite Iran's attempts to portray the attack as a victory, the overwhelming success of Israel's defense mechanisms and the lack of significant damage to Israeli targets indicate a significant military failure on Iran's part. Iran's propaganda efforts, including showing footage of unrelated fires to downplay the attack's impact, further highlight the regime's attempts to control the narrative.

Geopolitical Implications

The conflict between Iran and Israel has broader geopolitical implications, including the potential for a wider regional war and the impact on US alliances in the Middle East. The Biden administration's handling of the situation, including its response to Iran's actions and its support for Israel, has raised concerns about the US's commitment to its allies and the stability of the region. The delicate balance of power in the Middle East, with Iran seeking to assert its influence and Israel defending its sovereignty, underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region.

Biden's Weak Response to Iran's Attacks

Shapiro points out that Biden's response to Iran's attacks on Israel has been weak and ineffective. He criticizes Biden for not taking a strong stance against Iran and for failing to support Israel in defending itself against Iranian aggression. Shapiro argues that Biden's approach of appeasement and conciliation towards Iran is misguided and only emboldens America's enemies.

Trump's Strong Foreign Policy

Shapiro contrasts Biden's approach with that of former President Donald Trump, who he believes would have taken a much stronger stance against Iran. He argues that Trump's willingness to use force and intimidation in dealing with America's enemies led to a safer world during his presidency. Shapiro suggests that Trump's approach of standing up to bullies and defending America's allies was more effective in deterring aggression.

Israel's Right to Defend Itself

Shapiro emphasizes that Israel has the right to defend itself against Iranian attacks and should not be pressured to show restraint. He criticizes the media and the Biden Administration for portraying Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as an extremist seeking conflict, when in reality, Netanyahu has been criticized for being too incremental in his approach to security threats.

Israel's Response to Iran's Attacks

Shapiro discusses former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak's tweet thread, in which he argues that Israel must exact a painful price on Iran for its attacks. Barak highlights the need for Israel to hold Iran accountable for its actions and to deter future aggression. He emphasizes that Israel is fighting not just for itself, but for the entire region against Iran's destabilizing influence.

The Need for Strong Allies

Shapiro stresses the importance of allies standing with Israel in the face of Iranian aggression. He criticizes the Biden Administration for leaking a conversation in which Biden told Netanyahu to stand down, suggesting that this was done to appease anti-Israel activists. Shapiro argues that allies should support Israel in defending itself and holding Iran accountable for its actions.

Israel's Response Options

Shapiro highlights the options Israel has in responding to the attack, including delivering a devastating blow to Iran directly, targeting the oil refineries, or turning north to strike Hezbollah. He also mentions the possibility of Israel finishing off its business in the Gaza Strip and then making a deal with the Saudis to counter the Iranian threat.

US Aid to Israel

Shapiro emphasizes the importance of the United States providing foreign aid to Israel to help defend itself against threats from Iran and its proxies. He mentions that Speaker Johnson is vowing to take up aid to Israel following the drone attacks and renewed bipartisan pressure. The question arises about whether the aid to Israel will be tied to funding for Ukraine, with the possibility of passing a lone aid bill for Ukraine.

Criminal Trial of Trump

The podcast also touches on the upcoming criminal trial of former President Trump in New York City. Shapiro notes that Democrats are focused on this trial as a way to harm Trump's candidacy, as recent polls show that many Americans view Trump's presidency more favorably than Biden's. The trial in New York revolves around allegations of Trump falsifying business and financial records related to hush money payments.

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