Narativ with Zev Shalev (Video)

Blinken’s Gambit: Can He Turn A Hostage Crisis into Mideast Peace?

Secretary of State Antony Blinken quietly slipped into Israel on Thursday for meetings in Ramallah and Jerusalem to further a bold proposal that may result in a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. Blinken believes the ongoing hostage releases and ceasefire talks provide a diplomatic opening for a long-lasting peace.
Blinken outlined his proposal in a speech Thursday night.
Israel must improve the lives of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza “in immediate, tangible ways.”
Israel must provide Palestinians with a credible path toward statehood.
The US will propose “practical steps” that can be taken to this end.
A “revitalized” Palestinian Authority will govern a united West Bank and Gaza.
The government in Ramallah must reform, end corruption, and promote a free press.
My guest on this week’s podcast is investment banker and Middle-East policy expert Rick Petree. His diplomatic roots, operational experience, and nuanced knowledge make him an ideal expert to assess Blinken’s gambit.
As Rick and I were speaking, the final 8 hostages to be released by Hamas under the 4-day ceasefire - were in transit back home to Israel after 55 days in captivity. 120 Israelis have been freed, 75 remain in captivity.
We discuss how the crisis presents an opportunity for peace and how both Palestinian and Israeli public opinion seem increasingly receptive to dialogue and compromise after decades of failed security doctrines.
Furthermore, the potential spoils of vast offshore gas reserves discovered between Israel and Gaza suggest possible shared prosperity if political cooperation can be achieved.
No naïve optimism is warranted. And yet Blinken’s maneuverings hint that behind the hostage tragedy, economic incentives, and weariness of violence, a cautious hope burns for progress between historic enemies. The ingredients for peace may be aligning if key leaders can seize the moment.

Unveiling George Santos: A Spy or a Liar?

BREAKING: The House will hold a third vote this week to expel Congressman George Santos in the wake of a damning ethics report accusing him of brazen fraud and theft. Santos remains defiant, saying: "If they want to send me home...God bless their hearts."
Tonight, we unpack the shadowy world of George Santos. This episode has been digitally re-edited and remastered.
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There are many red flags that Santos could be a foreign spy. His lies suggest he's hiding his true identity. Spies often have criminal histories to help them operate - Santos is accused of fraud in Brazil and running a Ponzi scheme in the U.S. He's fabricated his entire background - no one knows where he was really educated. He has suspicious foreign funding ties to a Russian oligarch close to Putin. The layers of deception raise spy suspicions.
George Santos: A Trump Fanatic
Santos is cut from Trump's cloth - an obnoxious superfan. He outrageously claimed his house was ransacked just for attending a Trump party. Like Trump, he's an audacious liar.
George Santos: A Hidden Drag Queen?
There's evidence Santos once performed in drag as "Kitara Ravash" in Brazil under his alias "Anthony Devolder." As Republicans attack drag events, the irony of Santos potentially being a drag queen is striking.
The Russian Oligarch Backing George Santos
Santos has funding ties to sanctioned Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg, who operates as a Putin delegate and allegedly runs an Israeli-Russian spying operation. Vekselberg's cousin Andrew Intrater, representing his business interests, donated thousands to Santos and groups supporting his Congressional bid.
The GOP Leadership's Support for George Santos
Despite his outrageous lies, GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy has refused calls to expel Santos, valuing his one-vote majority over integrity. But damning new allegations make his removal inevitable.
Conclusion
The questions surrounding Santos and his foreign backers raise serious unanswered questions about threats to national security. His imminent expulsion comes as no surprise.

An Unprecedented Legal Quest: One Man’s Audacious Bid to Bar Trump from 2024

Attorney John Anthony Castro is on a bold mission that could rock American politics - using an obscure constitutional clause to legally disqualify Donald Trump from running for president in 2024.
Castro's ingenious strategy centers on the 14th Amendment's anti-insurrection section, which bars anyone involved in rebellion against the U.S. from holding office. His argument: Trump's role in inciting the January 6th Capitol attack crosses that line.
But this unprecedented legal gambit faces major hurdles. Courts have dismissed similar voter-driven lawsuits for lack of "standing." As a direct Trump opponent, Castro asserts his injury gives him grounds to sue.
If the case proceeds, the next question is whether the clause is "self-executing" - enforceable without further congressional action. A ruling in Castro's favor could be a massive leap toward barring Trump's candidacy.
Yet the most significant obstacle may be proving an actual "insurrection" occurred on January 6th - a hotly disputed issue with massive political stakes.
Win or lose, Castro's lawsuit puts a little-known constitutional provision under a glaring spotlight. By challenging Trump, he gained media attention for his future presidential aspirations.
The outcome of this bold legal fight is uncertain. But one thing is clear - Castro's ingenious move could set a precedent with lasting effects on American politics and elections. His quest marks an unprecedented attempt to employ the courts to reshape the political landscape.

From The Archive: The Dragon’s Tail: Dissecting Christian Nationalism

 
 
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This episode focuses on exploring the rising influence of Christian nationalism in America and its potential connection to China. The hosts discuss the relationships of key figures such as Ivanka Trump, Wendy Deng Murdoch, Rupert Murdoch, and Jared Kushner. They also elaborate on the potential roles played by proxies such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, Israel, the UAE, and Egypt. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to analyzing the influence of individuals like Michael Flynn and Steve Bannon, as well as organizations such as the Federalist Society and Rule of Law Foundation. The episode concludes with a warning about the crucial upcoming elections and the imperative to resist potential outside influences threatening America's democracy.

Questions Surround Speaker Johnson’s Connections to Russia

Speaker Mike Johnson has concerning connections to Russia that raise national security questions as he pushes for President Biden's impeachment.
Johnson has long received donations from American Ethane, a company run by two Russians with direct Kremlin ties. American Ethane bankrolled Johnson for years to grease the wheels on getting approval for a proposed ethane terminal in Louisiana. Interestingly, while the firm is Russian-owned and named American Ethane, the exports were all destined for China.
Johnson's anti-LGBTQ advocacy also aligns closely with Russia's global anti-gay agenda. He has compared homosexuality to pedophilia and called it dangerous. His wife runs a Christian counseling service equating homosexuality with bestiality. In the 2000s, Johnson provided legal advice to Exodus International, a harmful conversion therapy group, as well as advocacy for an anti-gay "Day of Truth" in schools. At the time, Johnson worked for the Alliance Defending Freedom, which connected him to Russia's representative at the anti-LGBTQ World Congress of Families. The WCF authored Russia's severe anti-gay propaganda law.
Johnson's personal life also raises questions. He adopted a black son when he was 25, two years before meeting his wife. Yet few photos exist of Johnson's adopted son with the rest of the family. Johnson has been elusive in providing details about the adoption. In 2010, Johnson was dean of a failed Baptist law school embroiled in fundraising and child abuse scandals, which he conveniently omits from his resume.
With an impeachment of President Biden looming, Moscow may be applying pressure on Johnson through compromising materials obtained over years of Russian connections. The stakes could not be higher to determine whether the Kremlin is influencing the impeachment process through Speaker Johnson.

Inside Israel’s Trauma: A Reporter’s Sobering View from Tel Aviv

She is one of Israel’s leading political commentators and her interview was as poignant as it was politically prescient.  Thank you, Tal.Shalev (no relation) of Walla! News, Please follow her work @talshalev1
In this episode, chief political correspondent Tal Shalev provides a sobering view from Tel Aviv on the crisis in Israel and Gaza. She explains how the October 7th attacks inflicted severe trauma on Israelis, leaving the country grief-stricken and insecure.
Shalev discusses the deteriorating humanitarian emergency unfolding in Gaza as Israel's ground offensive continues. She notes Israel is unwilling to open humanitarian corridors without the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Shalev argues Netanyahu has failed to take responsibility for security failures leading up to the October 7th attack. She states he is clinging to power but faces pressure from the Biden administration to resign.
Moreover, Shalev expresses deep concern about the disturbing global backlash against Jews, with rising antisemitism bringing back collective traumas. She argues Western societies must unequivocally condemn the evil of Hamas’ actions.
In terms of solutions, Shalev states a prisoner swap to free hostages could happen but would be politically difficult for Netanyahu. She contends extensive military action is needed to degrade Hamas’ capabilities. Shalev says a diplomatic push led by the US and Arab states will be required to restore some stability.
Overall, Shalev offers a sobering inside view of the trauma, pain and complexity of the crisis confronting Israel. She makes a powerful case that firm military resolve combined with international diplomacy is critical to containing the threat from Hamas.

Far-Right Extremist Elected Speaker: The Dangers for Democracy

In this episode, former GOP Congressman Denver Riggleman joins to discuss the concerning election of far-right Republican Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House. Riggleman explains how Johnson's extreme views and embrace of election conspiracy theories pose a real "danger to democracy" given his position third in line to the presidency.
Riggleman provides background on Johnson's surprise victory for Speaker, noting his "far, far, far right" stances and record promoting election fraud claims and QAnon conspiracies. He warns there is now a severe risk of Biden's impeachment efforts and undermining support for Ukraine under Johnson's leadership.
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Drawing on his investigative work for the January 6th committee, Riggleman reveals stunning insights from Mark Meadows' texts, which he argues provided a "roadmap to the insurrection." The messages spotlight connections between the Stop the Steal conspiracy theories and the Hunter Biden laptop disinformation campaign.
Most alarmingly, Riggleman discloses that Ginni Thomas, wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, was embedded in these group texts coordinating with the White House on election challenges. He contends this suggests potential judicial branch involvement in subverting the election.
Overall, Riggleman makes a compelling case that Johnson's rise to Speaker of the House signals the GOP's disturbing slide into extremism and tolerance of dangerous conspiracies. He surfaces the urgent need to counter these anti-democratic forces connected to January 6th that are still working to undermine the Biden presidency.
Guest: Denver Riggleman, former GOP Congressman and author of "The Breach"

Examining Biden’s Historic Oval Office Address and the Prospects for Peace in the MIddle East

As Israel. amasses 300,000 troops as it readies a ground invasion on Gaza, president Biden addresses the nation from the Oval Office on his return from his shuttle diplomacy to the region.  We'll go inside the war room as President Biden urges Israeli leaders to de-escalate tensions. Through Rick Petree's grounded analysis, we'll examine the complex dynamics shaping relations between the US, Israel and Saudi Arabia. We'll consider the risks of a potential ground invasion and its impact on oil prices and the US economy. With clarity, we'll explore the challenging road forward, including whether hostage negotiations could prevent further bloodshed.
Petree will share his perspective on dealings between Trump and foreign powers. We'll discuss whether Biden's diplomatic experience can reestablish America's leadership role in the Middle East and beyond. Petree offers a hopeful vision for reviving a two-state solution. His global outlook promises to enrich our understanding of the forces driving this crisis and the future of US politics. This sober, thoughtful discussion offers timely insights.
Guest Biography
Rick Petree is an international investment banker and former corporate lawyer based in New York and Istanbul. He advises major corporations in Europe and the Middle East on renewable energy.
Educated at Oxford and Harvard.
Member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
Career background in law and foreign relations as the son of a U.S. diplomat.
 

The Truth About the Israel-Hamas Conflict and the Future of American Politics

The carnage unfurling in Gaza and Israel is an ugly testament to the strategic shortsightedness of the Abraham Accords. We're peeling back the layers on this conflict, spotlighting the catastrophic events that have led to the boiling fury felt by Israelis towards their government. From the chilling tales of survivors from the Supernova Music Festival attack to the brutal mass murders and beheadings, we explore how they have been instrumental in shaping public sentiment and Prime Minister Netanyahu's call for retaliation. Prepare for an uncomfortable journey into the horrors of a possible long-drawn war.
Switching gears, we're turning the spotlight onto the upcoming elections and the titanic battle brewing between democracy and autocracy. With Trump's on-going court cases hanging over us like a dark cloud, we ponder on the possible political motives behind it. Are they just a shield for his own protection or a strategic move for his political campaign? We're delving into the heart of these questions, dissecting the role of Republicans in shaping the modern economy, and discussing the potential impact of a more refined Republican candidate.
We're thrilled to have Political Strategist Rachel Bitecofer author of the upcoming book "Hit 'Em Where It Hurts: How to Save Democracy by Beating Republicans at Their Own Game" joining us to add depth to the discourse. Rachel brings her razor-sharp insights into the current state of the Republican Party, the looming 2021 elections, and the power of narrative reporting. We're dissecting the tales of autocrats, crooks, and kings who've threatened our freedom as she paints a riveting picture of the political landscape. Come, be a part of this engaging conversation, rich in political insights and thought-provoking discussions.
Gaza, Israel, Abraham Accords, Supernova Music Festival, Mass Murders, Beheadings, Prime Minister Netanyahu, Retaliation, Trump, Republican Party, 2021 Elections, Autocracy, Jared Kushner, Mohammed bin Salman, Palestinians, Yom Kippur War, Camp David Accords, Bread and Butter Issues, MAGA Base, Hunter Biden Investigation, Robert F. Kennedy Jr, Ideological Rigidity, Party Tribalism, Vaccine Hesitancy, Narativ Reporting

Political Thriller: The Ousting of McCarthy and the Hunter Biden Laptop Controversy

American politics is never short of drama; this episode is a testament to that. We're starting with a political thriller - the ousting of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. His replacement could be Jim Jordan, Steve Scalise, or Kevin Hearn. Or it could be a plot twist like no other - Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries as a Unity Speaker. This upheaval of leadership and the potential for a coalition government could change the face of the Republic.
 
But wait, there's more! We're also diving into the murky depths of the Hunter Biden laptop controversy. This tale has a mysterious laptop, political machinations, and a cast of characters ranging from a Delaware store owner to Rudy Giuliani. We discuss the explosive contents of the laptop, the possible smear campaign against the Biden family, and the fascinating chain of ownership of the laptop data. So buckle up! This episode promises to be a wild ride through American politics' complex and often scandalous world.

The Proud Boys Saga: Enrique Tarrio’s Sentencing and Its Impact

Today, we embark on a journey into the heart of the Proud Boys saga, dissecting the seismic sentencing of their leader, Enrique Tarrio. We're joined by independent reporter Brandi Buchman (@Brandi_Buchman), who provides an in-depth look into the courtroom drama, Tarrio's remorse, and the impact of a mother's plea for mercy. We peel away the layers of Tarrio's character and question the future of the Proud Boys in the wake of this 22-year sentence for seditious conspiracy.
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We rewind to the chaotic days leading up to the notorious January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol, dissecting the evidence exhibited in Tarrio's trial. As we analyze his connections with co-defendants and controversial figures like Roger Stone, we ponder on the consequences of Tarrio's heavy sentence for others implicated in the events of that fateful day. Our conversation takes a sobering turn as we assess the influence of the likes of Donald Trump, Roger Stone, Alex Jones, Michael Flynn, and Steve Bannon on the Proud Boys.
In the concluding phase of our discussion, we highlight the broader implications of a potential Trump re-election for Tarrio and his co-defendants. We contemplate the deterrent effect of these sentences on other extremist groups while examining the ongoing power of Trump's rhetoric to incite violence. As we conclude, we challenge you to reflect on the battle for truth, the value of freedom, and the essential role of accountability in our society.

From The Archive: Exploring The Alliance Between Roy Cohn, Rupert Murdoch and Ronald Reagan and The Origin of Fox News

Rupert Murdoch’s Australian newspapers hit the streets on Friday morning without the news that the media mogul was stepping down and his son Lachlan would become sole chair of News Corp and Fox Corp. The news was broken – after the print deadline in Australia – by one of Murdoch’s US mastheads, the Wall Street Journal.  
This episode of Narativ is from the Narativ archive - Part 1 of Spy Murdoch: The Story Rupert Murdoch Doesn't Want You to Know about the Beginnings of Fox News. My guest is Pulitzer award winner David L. Marcus, Roy Cohn's cousin.
This episode explores the unlikely alliance between Roy Cohn, Rupert Murdoch, and Ronald Reagan. We delve into how Rupert Murdoch gained traction in the media business in exchange for positive write-ups for Ronald Reagan in the New York Post. We explore Cohn's "Favor Bank" style of bartering, the close relationship between Ronald Reagan and Murdoch, and how this led to Murdoch getting sweetheart deals from Reagan's FCC. We then discuss the transaction-oriented politics of Murdoch and the role Wendy Deng and the Chinese market played in it. Roy Cohn was an unlikely ally of Rupert Murdoch. Cohen was a self-promoting political figure and the right-hand man to Senator Joe McCarthy of Wisconsin. Their Un-American activities committee aimed to fight communism. David L. Marcus, Cohn's cousin, spent the last year of his life shadowing Cohn for a Vanity Fair article.
Episode Keywords: Roy Cohn, Rupert Murdoch, Ronald Reagan, Favor Bank, New York Post, Fox News, Libs, Wokeness, Deregulation, FCC, Alan and Company, Rothschilds, Israeli Intelligence, J. Edgar Hoover, Wendy Deng, Chinese Market, Propaganda, Brainwashing, David L Marcus, Pulitzer Prize, Global Events, Education, Politics, Spy Murdoch, Patreon, Narativ, Tyranny, Perfect Union
 

The Whistleblower, The Indictment, and The Future of American Politics

Hunter Biden's indictment isn't just a political chess piece - it's an intricate cog in the machine, gunning for President Biden's second term. We're tearing into the whirlwind of allegations, media responses, and the plot twists emanating from the White House. We're also shedding some light on the role of FBI counterintelligence agent Jonathan Buma and his whistleblower complaint, suggesting a narrative you may not be hearing: allegations against the Bidens might be part of a Russian and Chinese strategy to re-elect Donald Trump.
We are digging into the big questions around Joe Biden's presidency and putting a magnifying glass to special counsel David Weiss' investigation, the Russia hoax, and its potential influence on future elections. We spare no detail in discussing David Letterman's on-air confession and what it means in the grand scheme of things. Moreover, we're throwing into sharp relief Donald Trump's potential return to the White House and Hunter Biden's business operation.

Exploring the Threat of Trump’s Potential Return and the Power of the 14th Amendment

Trump, the proverbial Trojan horse for global adversaries, remains a daunting threat to our democracy. Brace yourself for an intense journey as we delve into his dark machinations - from the shocking revelations about Enrique Tarrio's 22-year sentence for his role in the January 6th assault on the US Capitol to the unnerving investigations against Roger Stone and Peter Navarro's contempt of Congress. The chilling reality of Trump's alliance with world adversaries, hell-bent on world domination, will leave you questioning the very foundations of our political landscape.
We don't stop there. The specter of Trump running for president in 2024 and the potential for a catastrophic coup post-election looms ominously. Matt Gaetz's warning of potential bloodshed is unsettling, to say the least. Yet, the disqualification under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment could be the silver lining we seek. As we unravel these complex issues, we push the boundaries of conventional discourse and explore the legal implications of the 14th Amendment on Trump's eligibility. Uncover with us a fresh perspective on how Congressional determination of insurrection could render a guilty verdict unnecessary, potentially saving us from a terrifying dystopian future.
 
(0:00:00) - Trump's Threat to Democracy
(0:09:21) - Risks of Trump's Potential Power Consolidation
(0:16:41) - Trump's Ineligibility for Future Office
Donald Trump, Enrique Tarrio, Proud Boys, US Capitol, Roger Stone, Peter Navarro, Contempt of Congress, World Domination, Matt Gaetz, 14th Amendment, Ineligibility, Insurrection, Guilty Verdict, Autocratic Rule, Congressional Determination
 

From the Mafia to the Mayor: A New Look at Trump, Giuliani, and NYC’s Mafia

As we ramp up to the new season, three episodes from the archives about RUDY GIULIANI. This content has been re-edited and digitally remastered, previously exclusive to premium members. If you want to see or hear more content like this, join narativ on Patreon or YouTube.
Step into the gritty world of 1980s New York City, where mob families claimed dominion over the streets. We're ripping back the curtain to reveal an era of unbounded criminality and the consequential crackdown by US Attorney Rudy Giuliani. This isn't just a story of law enforcement versus organized crime. It's a convoluted tale, bursting with tension between the Italian and Sicilian families, the emerging Russian and Ukrainian mobs, and a controversial figure - Rudy Giuliani himself. Could his buried mafia history drive Giuliani's mission to dismantle the mob? 
Get ready to question everything you thought you knew about recent history as we dig into the intricate ties between Donald Trump, Rudy Giuliani, and the grimy underbelly of NYC's criminal world. We'll scrutinize the alleged connections between Trump, Giuliani, and the FBI Agents Association - making you wonder just how far the rabbit hole of corruption indeed extends. As we highlight Trump and Giuliani's audacious political ambitions and law enforcement's complex dance with organized crime, we'll expose a side of New York City you never knew existed. This is no ordinary tale; it's a gripping narrative full of unexpected twists that you won't soon forget.