Philip Klein on Jimmy Carter's Legacy and Todd Bensman Explores National Security Threats from Biden's Open Borders
Breaking Battlegrounds
Deep Dive
What is Jimmy Carter's legacy in the Middle East according to Philip Klein?
Jimmy Carter's legacy in the Middle East is largely disastrous. While he deserves credit for the Israel-Egypt peace deal, his post-presidency meddling, support for terrorist leaders like Yasser Arafat, and efforts to undermine U.S. policies, such as during the Persian Gulf War, have been highly damaging. Additionally, his abandonment of the Shah in Iran led to the rise of Islamic fundamentalists, subjugating the country and threatening the region for over 40 years.
Why did Jimmy Carter have an obsessive hatred toward Israel?
Carter believed that Jewish Americans, particularly those supporting Democrats like Walter Mondale and Scoop Jackson, were more popular and contributory to his political loss. His twisted view of the world also led him to see Israel as an extension of American imperialism, which he resented. This, combined with a desire to prove his own diplomatic prowess, contributed to his negative stance.
How did Jimmy Carter's actions after his presidency, especially regarding the Shah of Iran, impact the region?
Carter's decision to abandon support for the Shah of Iran allowed Islamic radicals to take over the country, subjugating its people and threatening the region for over four decades. This shift weakened U.S. influence and alliances in the Middle East, contributing to the rise of Islamic fundamentalism.
What is the true scandal behind Joe Biden's commutations of death row inmates?
The true scandal is the lack of transparency regarding who made the decision to commute these sentences. Given Biden's declining health and capacity, it is likely that progressive advisers are making these decisions and having him sign off, rather than Biden himself reviewing and making measured decisions about these cases.
How many people on the terrorist watch list have crossed the U.S. border in recent years?
More than 400 people on the FBI's terrorism watch list have crossed the U.S. border and were apprehended in the last three and a half years. Additionally, over 2 million illegal immigrants have entered the country without being caught, and at least 100 people on the watch list were accidentally freed and later had to be rounded up.
What is the process for getting on the terrorist watch list?
The terrorist watch list is managed by the FBI and can be nominated by any of the 17 intelligence agencies. A person must have a significant association with terrorism or individuals involved in terrorism, either directly or indirectly. The threshold for inclusion has been increased over the years to ensure only solid cases are added.
How do modern digital communications impact the risk of lone wolf terrorist attacks?
Modern digital communications, including social media and encrypted apps, make it easier for international jihadist organizations to radicalize and incite individuals to conduct lone wolf attacks. These platforms allow for less detectable radicalization compared to traditional cell structures, which are more easily monitored and disrupted.
What was the reality behind President Trump's travel ban and why was it called a 'Muslim ban'?
Trump's travel ban was not a ban but visa restrictions on countries with no government or that are hostile to the U.S., making it difficult to vet applicants. It targeted countries like Somalia, Yemen, and Libya, which lacked the infrastructure to provide necessary intelligence. The term 'Muslim ban' is a mischaracterization, as it was a vetting and national security issue, not religious discrimination.
What role has the Mexican government played in facilitating the border crisis, according to Todd Bensman?
The Mexican government has essentially ceded control of the southern border to cartels, making no effort to stop illegal crossings. Their policy, 'hugs, not bullets,' has allowed cartels to operate freely, facilitating the influx of migrants, including potential terrorists and violent criminals, into the U.S. This policy serves Mexico's interest in pushing migrants out of their country but poses a significant threat to U.S. national security.
What are the details of the murder of Paul Clifford, the Good Samaritan in Arizona?
Paul Clifford, from Benson, Arizona, answered a knock on his door on Christmas Eve and was asked to help with car problems. He took his daughter's truck to assist but never returned. His body was found burning next to his truck in the desert. Three suspects, including a 40-year-old and two minors, were arrested and charged with murder. The motive remains unknown, and there was no prior connection between Clifford and the suspects.
- Carter's orchestration of the Israel-Egypt peace deal is acknowledged.
- His post-presidency actions are criticized for promoting terrorism and undermining US interests.
- His relationships with Arafat and other dictators are examined.
- The contrasting media portrayal of Carter and Trump's foreign policies is noted.
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