The John Batchelor Show

STREAMING MAKING OF JBS, FEATURING THADDEUS MCCOTTER, 5-26-26. 1919 VERSAILLES AFTERWARD. The current conflict in the Strait of Hormuz is described as a "tangle of talking, fighting, and arguing." While President Trump recently suggested he was "close to clinching" a major deal with Iran, the situation remains volatile; shortly after those remarks, the US bombed Iranian missile launch sites and boats to counter threats in the Strait. These military actions highlight the tenuous nature of mediation efforts aimed at securing a 60-day ceasefire, which would ideally reopen the waterway and lay the foundation for future nuclear talks. Host John Batchelor compares these ongoing negotiations to those of the Korean conflict, which began in 1950 and has yet to reach a final resolution. Thaddeus McCotter argues that the US administration has failed to effectively communicate its concrete war aims, leading to domestic confusion. While the administration originally cited Iran's suspect nuclear weapons program as the primary casus belli in February, the focus has shifted toward the economic impact of the Strait's closure. The closure has left hundreds of ships marooned, threatening the global supply chain for fertilizer and high-end goods. McCotter notes that most Americans are "practical people" who judge the conflict based on the cost of living and prices at the gas pump, which will ultimately be an "accounting" factor in the upcoming November elections. The Iranian regime is viewed by McCotter as an untrustworthy partner that treats its nuclear program as an "umbrella" to shield its exportation of terrorism and regional destabilization. He suggests that Iran believes "time is on their side" and may be using economic pain as leverage during the US election cycle. There is also concern that the US may be transitioning toward "tolerating nukes in Tehran" if it cannot find a way to destroy Iran's ability to recreate its nuclear program "root and branch." Domestically, President Trump is "playing a hot hand," using his influence to shape the Republican Party's future through primary endorsements. For instance, he endorsed Ken Paxton against John Cornyn in Texas, signaling an effort to define the party's standard-bearers for 2027. McCotter observes that while Trump has been successful in these primaries, the real test will be whether that success translates to the general election in November. Looking ahead to 2028, the conversation anticipates a "lame duck" period in which legislative agendas may stall if the opposition captures Congress. The Republican succession battle is expected to involve figures heavily identified with Trump, such as Marco Rubio and J.D. Vance. McCotter predicts that Trump's personality will lead him to "anoint" a successor, much as Andrew Jackson did with Martin Van Buren, rather than remaining neutral in the selection process. This political maneuvering is happening against a backdrop of ongoing "kinetic engagement" in the Middle East that lacks broad public attention or clear objectives.

Grant Newsham critiques the lack of clear war aims in the Iran conflict, noting that critical infrastructure remains largely untouched. He warns this perceived weakness sends a dangerous message to adversaries in Beijing and Moscow. (16) 1919

Thaddeus McCotter questions whether the US is conceding to Iran's nuclear program to prioritize energy prices. He also discusses Trump's successful primary strategy in shaping a loyalist Republican Party for the 2027 cycle. (15)

Joseph Sternberg details the political melodrama in London, focusing on Keir Starmer's leadership crisis and Labour's poor performance. He highlights the rise of Nigel Farage's Reform Party and the persistent Brexit debate. (14) 1919

Joseph Sternberg analyzes the widening economic gap between a prosperous United States and a stagnating Europe. He identifies the European welfare state and low productivity as significant drags compared to American economic growth. (13) 1919

Gregory Copley praises King Charles III's leadership in maintaining national identity during political turmoil. He also discusses Prince William's preparation for the crown and critiques Keir Starmer's perceived radical leftist, anti-monarchical agenda. (12) JANUARY 12, 1919, FIRST PLENARY SESSION

Gregory Copley examines the political instability in Britain, where Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces significant unpopularity within his own party. He discusses the potential for a nationalist breakup of the United Kingdom. (11) 1919

Gregory Copley previews the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, noting President Tinubu's likely run despite his health concerns. He contrasts Nigeria's relative calm with the revolutionary anarchy currently gripping the neighboring states in the Sahel. (10) 1919

Gregory Copley discusses the tactical nature of Iran negotiations, noting continued US defensive strikes in the region. He identifies Turkey's nuclear ambitions and its ICBM program as an emerging factor for future regional stability. (9) 1919

Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo cover intense protests in Bolivia triggered by a deepening economic crisis. The guests attribute the instability to Evo Morales, describing his efforts to provoke institutional chaos for his own political survival. (8) 1919 CLEMENCEAU TO THE GERMAN DELEGATES

Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo discuss US military exercises over Caracas and the release of Alex Saabas signals of a shifting transition. They also cover Lula da Silva's health challenges and the friction within the Brazilianelection. (7) 1919

Mary Kissel discusses the potential collapse of the Castro regime due to severe economic mismanagement and food shortages. She highlights the need for a comprehensive plan to rebuild while deterring Russian and Chinese influence. (6) 1919

Mary Kissel warns that prioritizing the Strait of Hormuz over dismantling Iran's nuclear program lacks necessary strategic leverage. She stresses the danger of a messianic regime partnering with major powers like China and Russia. (5) 1919 GERMAN DELEGATION

Jonathan Schanzer details Israel's expanding operations against Hezbollah in South Lebanon, focusing on the threat of unjammable FPV drones. He also updates the IDF's progress in Gaza against remaining Hamas leadership and territory. (4) 1919

Jonathan Schanzer evaluates the rumored Iran memorandum of understanding, warning it may signal American vulnerability to regional adversaries. He notes that while Iran's defense base is weakened, its control over energy remains potent. (3) 1919 VERSAILLES

Liz Peek analyzes Donald Trump's dominance in Republican primaries, highlighting his successful endorsements of loyalists over the party establishment. She notes the internal friction within the Senate GOP as Trump reshapes the party's future. (2) 1919 CLEMENCEAU AND THE GERMAN DELEGATES

Liz Peek discusses the stabilizing energy markets despite ongoing Middle Eastern tensions, noting that global oil production remains resilient. She also explores Kevin Warsh's potential role as a reformer at the Federal Reserve. (1) 1919 VERSAILLES TREATY

Preview for Later Today: Mary Kissel discusses the potential for a humanitarian catastrophe in Cuba following the Castro regime's eventual collapse. She warns that without a strategic plan, the country risks becoming a failed state like Haiti. 1962 CUBA

Preview for Later Today: Jonathan Schanzer discusses the threat of unjammable FPV drones used by Hezbollah against the IDF. He explains that Israel must develop new countermeasures while focusing on dismantling the group's command and control infrastructure. 1950 BEIRUT

Preview for Later Today: Retired Colonel Grant Newsham discusses how Americans often lose focus during long conflicts like the one with Iran. He argues that enemies exploit this lack of "killer instinct" to outlast American military pressure. 1959 IKE IN KABUL