#289 Michael Lester - Is the United States Going to War with Iran For Israel? - The Shawn Ryan Show Recap
Podcast: The Shawn Ryan Show
Published: 2026-03-19
Duration: 14030
Guests: Michael Lester
What Happened
Michael Lester, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps combat pilot and author, presents a critical view of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to Israel and Iran. He argues that Israel has a significant influence on U.S. actions and that American interventions often benefit Israel more than the United States itself. This perspective is outlined in his controversial book, 'We Are the Bad Guys: How the U.S. Wages War, Controls Economies, and Calls It Freedom.'
Operation Epic Fury, launched on February 28, serves as a backdrop to Lester's analysis, which he claims aligns closely with the unfolding events. The operation highlights ongoing tensions and raises questions about the U.S.'s strategic objectives in Iran, such as dismantling Iran's missile program and preventing nuclear proliferation. Despite these goals, Lester suggests that the U.S. lacks a clear endgame, risking a perpetual conflict.
Joe Kent's resignation from the National Counterterrorism Center underscores internal disagreements over U.S. involvement in Iran. Kent believes the conflict is driven by Israeli pressure and highlights the complex dynamics between U.S. policymakers and Israeli interests. The episode also touches on the possibility of President Trump seeking a third term through legal maneuvers, adding another layer to the political landscape.
Economic repercussions of the conflict are significant, with oil prices surpassing $100 a barrel and affecting global markets. Countries like China and Japan, heavily reliant on oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz, face potential disruptions. Meanwhile, the U.S. has deployed 2,500 troops to the region, escalating military involvement.
The potential for a ground invasion of Iran raises concerns among military experts, with Iran's challenging geography and advanced missile technology posing significant obstacles. The U.S. faces a daunting task, with a cost imbalance in countering Iranian drones using expensive Patriot missiles.
Lester explores the broader implications of U.S. foreign policy, including the erosion of domestic benefits and the potential decline of American global influence. He warns of the economic risks if countries move away from trading oil in U.S. dollars, which could devalue the dollar and trigger a global depression. The interconnectedness of global economies complicates efforts to disentangle from U.S. influence.
The episode concludes with Lester emphasizing the importance of informed citizenry and accountability in a democratic society. He is working on two new books, focusing on detecting lies and enhancing civic engagement, as tools to empower individuals in navigating complex political landscapes.
Key Insights
- Michael Lester argues that Israel exerts a significant influence over U.S. foreign policy, often leading to actions that benefit Israel at the expense of U.S. interests. He claims that pressure from Israel and its lobby in the U.S. contributed to initiating the conflict with Iran.
- Operation Epic Fury highlights ongoing tensions with Iran, as the U.S. aims to dismantle Iran's missile program and prevent nuclear proliferation. However, Lester notes the absence of a clear endgame, raising the risk of an indefinite military engagement.
- Economic impacts of the Iran conflict are profound, with oil prices exceeding $100 a barrel. This affects countries like China and Japan, which rely heavily on oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz, potentially disrupting global markets.
- The U.S. faces significant challenges in a potential ground invasion of Iran due to its complex geography and advanced military capabilities. The cost imbalance in countering Iran's drones with expensive Patriot missiles highlights the financial strain of the conflict.