Title: They Cooked Up Their Own Intelligence: Chris Hedges Uncovers Parallels Between Israel’s War on Iran and Iraq
In a captivating episode of "The Listening Post," Chris Hedges, a seasoned journalist and former Middle East Bureau Chief for The New York Times, delves into the complexities surrounding Israel’s escalating tensions with Iran. This analysis not only sheds light on the current geopolitical landscape but also draws haunting parallels with the unjustified military interventions of the past, particularly the 2003 Iraq War.
As discussions about the possibility of military action against Iran ramp up, Hedges recounts the familiar rhetoric that echoes the lead-up to the Iraq invasion. He scrutinizes the narratives propagated by government officials and their unshakeable reliance on intelligence reports that have been widely discredited. Hedges cautions listeners about the dangers of a media landscape that often presents these dubious claims without critical examination.
The episode dissects how historical lessons appear to be ignored as the cycle of conflict threatens to repeat itself. Hedges emphasizes that the justifications being offered for potential military action against Iran mirror the flawed reasoning that led to one of the most controversial wars of the 21st century. The host argues that this is not merely a question of foreign policy but a profound moral issue that impacts countless lives in the region.
Hedges’ insights serve as a reminder of the journalistic responsibility to question prevailing narratives and seek the truth behind the headlines. As the global community watches with bated breath, the role of the media in framing these discussions becomes ever more critical. In an era characterized by misinformation and sensationalism, Hedges urges us to remain vigilant and demand accountability from both our leaders and the institutions that report on them.
Through this in-depth exploration, listeners gain not only a historical context for the current crisis but also a call to action: to engage critically with the information being presented and to stand up against narratives that threaten the principles of truth and justice.
Watch the video by Al Jazeera English
Video ““They cooked up their own intelligence” Chris Hedges on Israel’s war on Iran | The Listening Post” was uploaded on 06/22/2025 to Youtube Channel Al Jazeera English