Ep. 2392 - Fake Allies and Backstabbers - The Ben Shapiro Show Recap

Podcast: The Ben Shapiro Show

Published: 2026-03-20

Guests: Carlos Antonio Jimenez

What Happened

America's allies, including Germany, France, the UK, and others, have issued a strongly worded letter condemning Iran's recent aggressive actions on commercial vessels and civilian infrastructure. The letter urges Iran to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and cease its threats and attacks.

NATO head Mark Rudy and British Prime Minister Kier Starmer successfully convinced French President Emmanuel Macron to support a political statement against Iran. This marks a significant diplomatic move, showcasing unity among Western nations in their stance against Iran's aggression.

The United States is contemplating a strategic move against Iran by seizing Kharg Island, where 90% of Iranian oil is refined. This idea aligns with President Donald Trump's suggestion that the U.S. should benefit from conflicts by leveraging resources like oil from regions such as Iraq and Venezuela.

Iran's leadership is reportedly facing substantial losses, with many top figures either dead or incapacitated. The U.S. and Israel are actively targeting Iranian leadership in an effort to weaken the regime, which could lead to significant geopolitical shifts.

The Pentagon is seeking a substantial $200 billion to restock weaponry and prepare for future conflicts. This funding is not solely for current war efforts but also aims to reinforce military capabilities for upcoming challenges.

A Politico poll indicates that 43% of Americans support U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, while 33% oppose them. Among MAGA Republicans, support is significantly higher at 81%, compared to 61% among non-MAGA Republicans.

California is facing a projected $3 billion budget deficit for 2026-27, with an $18 billion deficit expected by the legislative analyst's office. The state is also investing heavily in infrastructure projects like a wildlife crossing, initially estimated at $54 million but now expected to cost $114 million.

Cuba is experiencing severe economic challenges, including island-wide blackouts and shortages of basic necessities. Congressman Carlos Antonio Jimenez, the only Cuban-born member of Congress, discussed the potential for regime change in Cuba, suggesting that the regime may fall if it is not given any economic lifelines.

Key Insights

• America's allies, including Germany, France, and the UK, have united in a letter condemning Iran's attacks on commercial vessels, urging compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
• The U.S. is considering seizing Kharg Island in Iran as a strategic move against Iran's oil refining capabilities, echoing President Trump's view of benefiting from conflicts by leveraging regional resources.
• The U.S. and Israel's active targeting of Iranian leadership is reportedly causing significant losses, weakening the regime and potentially leading to major geopolitical changes.
• California faces a $3 billion budget deficit projected for 2026-27, alongside a costly wildlife crossing project, highlighting financial challenges amidst increasing infrastructure spending.