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EDITORIAL | Are World Leaders Dumb, Stupid, Sociopaths, or Psychopaths, or All of the Above (Part 6)?

By Abraham A. van Kempen
20 June 2025

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THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA – THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM – IN CHAINS

400 TO 600 words

GUEST EDITORIAL | ISRAEL'S MORAL COLLAPSE: A STRATEGY THAT DOESN'T NEED DEAD CHILDREN

You don’t stop a nuclear program by deliberately targeting families. You abandon the idea that anything is off-limits.

The view from a living room of a residential building that was destroyed in an attack by Israel on June 13, 2025, in Tehran, Iran. © Majid Saeedi/Getty Images

By Nadezhda Romanenko
Political Analyst
24 June 2025

The recent killing of Iranian nuclear scientist Mostafa Sadati-Armaki and his family in an Israeli airstrike should shock even seasoned strategists. It wasn’t just a precision strike; it was an execution of a household.

Sadati-Armaki was a mid-level engineer in Iran’s nuclear sector, not a senior official. While this role might have made him a target, it doesn't justify killing his children at home.

On June 13, at least five Iranian nuclear scientists, mostly academics and retired, were killed in Israeli strikes across Tehran, including Fereydoon Abbasi and Seyed Amir Hossein Feghhi. All had roles in nuclear development; none were combatants.

Crucially, they weren’t alone; in multiple cases, family members—wives, daughters, or a senior official’s daughter—died with them.

Read more
Israel’s war on Iran is not about nuclear weapons

These were targeted strikes on homes in residential areas at night, killing children and spouses who were related to someone deemed dangerous. It's not the fog of war but its deliberate weaponization.

Calling this “collateral damage” is cowardly. When decision-makers approve strikes on homes, knowing who is inside, the result isn't an accident—it's a choice.

Some argue deterrence in asymmetric war must be personal, but this equates to liquidation. It implies civilian lives near infrastructure, even scientists’ families, aren't worth saving, suggesting moral limits are luxuries we can't afford.

Iranian nuclear scientist Seyyed Mostafa Sadati-Armaki and his family.

This isn't about justifying Iran’s nuclear stance but about protecting families and children from conflict. We must uphold this core principle—when we stray from it, fear replaces law, and revenge dominates.

Targeting scientists’ families doesn’t stop programs or prevent threats. It hampers peace and encourages retaliation. What we normalize today, others will copy tomorrow.

READ MORE: Deterrence or death: Israel is making the case for a nuclear-armed Iran

This is a strategic and moral collapse, not a strength. If warfare reaches here, everyone—regardless of nationality—should be deeply and urgently afraid.

What is the Side of the Story that is Not Yet Decisive? Edited by Abraham A. van Kempen

FORMER UK AMBASSADOR CRAIG MURRAY: A PHANTOM CEASEFIRE.

Ambassador Murray interviewed by Judge Andrew Napolitano of Judging Freedom.

Watch the Video Here (24 minutes, 04 seconds)

Host: Judge Andrew Napolitano
Judging Freedom
25 June 2025

@elizabethferrari3647
Love Ambassador Murray. He's so sharp and thoughtful. What a treat.

@KizzieWiz
As a Scottish Nationalist, I am proud of Craig’s membership in the Alba party in Scotland, which seeks independence, and his work in the world, always working on behalf of the downtrodden.

@thestoicsteve
So glad to see Craig Murray on your show again. He has a vast range of experience he can draw on to provide insightful comments for your audience. Keep it up, Judge!

@socraticsandpiper
Excellent interview. Thank you, Judge. Hegseth is a blowhard and an embarrassment. It was a display of weakness for the PRESIDENT and two of his cabinet members to be on the stage at the same time. It was unnecessary and appeared desperate.

@MousieBrown944
Craig Murray! A hero! Thank you, Ambassador

@altitude707
Mr Murray has a clearer view of the truth than most others, thank you, Sir. It might be just me, but my stomach churns when I see Pete Hegseth talk. He spends too much time looking in the mirror. Reminds me of the top salesman at a used car lot, and just as credible! Thanks, Judge, for having Mr. Murray on. I'm glad he's one of the regulars.

@naturelover4214
Another good, honest interview with Craig Murray.

PROF. GLENN DIESEN: EUROPEAN COMPLICITY IN ISRAELI KILLINGS

Prof. Diesen interviewed by Judge Andrew Napolitano of Judging Freedom.

Watch the Video Here (26 minutes, 28 seconds)

Host: Judge Andrew Napolitano
Judging Freedom
25 June 2025

Professor Diesen: I was privileged to discuss the NATO Summit with Judge Napolitano on his show Judging Freedom.

@boycotte
Another thanks, Judge, for bringing Prof. Diesen!

@KittyAntonikWakfer
Another excellent interview!! I'm pleased to see your well-chosen interviewees, as their knowledge and insight are pertinent to the current problems the various Leaders are causing their citizens, including those in the USA.

@thetdchannel
Glenn’s great!

@MousieBrown944
Thank you, Prof Diesen

@KarenDewhirst-ec3to
Great interview, very insightful

@ollyneuhoff
Proud of your courageous questions, Judge!!! Well done!!!

@victoriaconnor8295
Zelensky refuses to step down.

COL. DOUGLAS MACGREGOR: TRUMP AND HIS WAR ON IRAN

Col. Macgregor interviewed by Judge Andrew Napolitano of Judging Freedom.

Watch the Video Here (28 minutes, 59 seconds)

Host: Judge Andrew Napolitano
Judging Freedom
24 June 2025

@JohnH-pf1oh
"First, we overlook evil, then we permit evil. Then we legalize evil. Then we promote evil. Then we celebrate evil. Then we persecute those who still call it evil." Fr. Dwight Longenecker.

@sprinkz6187
When criticism of Israel upsets so many people and politicians more than the genocide of 65,000+ innocent civilians and the targeted starvation of millions more ~ being lost for words is an understatement ~

@TaraShepherd-c3g
“We have an axe in one hand and a bag of cash in the other, and no one knows what’s coming first.” Brilliant portrayal.

@OlabisiRaheem-x3g
Col. You are right.. It's disgusting to hear an American say publicly that her country, the US, comes second after Israel. Even a " third world country representative wouldn't have said that" the US can no longer claim to be a sovereign nation.

@Irishcome1st
My teenage sons are enormous fans of Col McGregor; he’s brilliant, experienced, erudite, and speaks with such depth, knowledge, insight, and wisdom. Thank you! For educating all of us on the absolute truth.

@nasserderakhshan3211
Judge, every single person you bring on your show has my utmost respect and admiration. But Col McGregor is super special amongst them all.

@marktackman2886
"When the truth is ugly, a lie can be beautiful."- an excellent quote MacGregor gave us today.

FROM RUSSIA: NEWS ANALYST PEPE ESCOBAR: WHAT WILL MOSCOW AND BEIJING DO?

From Russia: News Analyst Pepe Escobar interviewed by Judge Andrew Napolitano of Judging Freedom.

Watch the Video Here (22 minutes, 14 seconds)

Host: Judge Andrew Napolitano
Judging Freedom
23 June 2025

@peterr7321
Pepe Escobar is the epitome of international journalism! They don't come any better! He is at the top of his class!

@karenfromNH
Pepe is such a joy to watch. He is always smiling and so incredibly informed.

@callyyeadon2653
Bravo Pepe. I cannot stop laughing every time you mention the “Chihuahuas” in Europe.. Unfortunately, my stupid UK government is one of them!

@meandmysisters803
Israel is breaking all international laws, and none of the legacy media dare to condemn Nathanyuhoo, which shows the Hypocrisy and lack of morals.

@almagraceoliva2068
Congratulations Judge!!! 600k subscribers... soon 1M. Thank you Judge for the truth and no bullshit news! Keep safe always.
Best wishes to our esteemed guests and speakers as well!

@allandart20
What a lovely and intelligent man

@Crusader1099
Pepe is a top-tier journalist and geo-analyst. One of the very best. His personality is also gold!

MAX BLUMENTHAL: HOW TRUMP WAS MANIPULATED

Max Blumenthal interviewed by Judge Andrew Napolitano of Judging Freedom.

Watch the Video Here (33 minutes, 20 seconds)

Host: Judge Andrew Napolitano
Judging Freedom
25 June 2025

@Nomorewarsforisrael
It was once news when the Mossad briefed the US president directly, but that's no longer the case.

@bababuyiekaban7942
Iran has taken away a valuable lesson: if they had a nuclear weapon, no one would have dared to attack them.

@user-fq1xh7bg7gJoe_Frisina
Mr. Blumenthal is a leading journalist, foreign correspondent, and analyst worldwide. Thanks, Judge, for having Max as a regular guest on your show.

@modernretroradio993
But if "manipulated" means a willing partner, then yes, Trump was indeed manipulated.

@DarrylWhiteguitar
Max is a top-notch journalist. He and his outstanding team break stories that I never see elsewhere.

@NorthernNevadan-x2k
Max has the hutzpah to come out with the truth, that’s an American Patriot!

TRUMP’S IRAN FAIL: ENDLESS WARS WON’T STOP US AND ISRAEL’S DECLINE WITH PROF. WOLFF

Watch the Video Here (15 minutes, 51 seconds)

Prof. Richard Wolff
Break Through News
24 June 2025

Just hours after launching airstrikes on Iran, the Trump Administration announced a ceasefire. Richard Wolff, a professor, breaks down the erratic behavior of Trump and Netanyahu, and what's driving their actions.

Professor Richard Wolff is a writer and co-founder of Democracy at Work, an organization. You can check out his work on rdwolff.com.

@RickYoung-m4e
How much did this cost the American people? How much good could that investment in destruction do for the medical programs in the United States? How many homes could that have built for poor Americans? All Americans should be asking these questions.

@mohamadayyad5390
What an intelligent realist narration from a great man, Prof. Richard Wolff. Salute to you.

@iammayaguru
So logical and so clear. So truthful and honest. I love your honesty and factual discussion, professor. Thank you.

@abiodun-b9
The professor broke it down with historical facts.

@Songshare
Israel's just a thorn in our side, if you ask me. I'm tired of the British Colonial model.

@blackprince5885
Prof, continue to provide salient information. Thank you!

@Bustahip
I love his tone. No bullshit.

ISRAEL CANNOT DICTATE THE FUTURE OF THE MIDDLE EAST | DAVID HEARST | MEE OPINION

Watch the Video Here (8 minutes, 34 seconds)

Host: David Hearst
Editor-in-Chief
Middle East Eye (MEE)
25 June 2025

David Hearst, the editor-in-chief of Middle East Eye, claims that Israel’s campaign against Iran has turned into a strategic failure.

After 12 days, Israel had failed to achieve any of its war objectives. Trump had claimed that Iran’s nuclear program had been completely destroyed, but US intelligence soon disputed this. Iran’s critical infrastructure remained intact, and crucial materials were relocated before the attacks. It's possible that Iran may have already constructed additional facilities elsewhere.

Israel also failed to eliminate Iran’s missile capabilities. Following Trump's ceasefire declaration, Iran launched fresh attacks, targeting Beersheba and key sites throughout Israel. The damage far exceeded what Hamas or Hezbollah had caused. According to Hearst, Iran didn't need to secure a decisive victory; it just had to keep fighting.

Israel's missile strikes locked Israeli civilians in shelters, exhausted its missile defenses, and revealed its limitations. The swift victory Netanyahu hoped for never materialized. Iran’s resilience has altered the balance of power. He claims this was never about stopping Iran's nuclear program. It was a clash between two worldviews: one that demands Israeli dominance in the region and one that resists occupation.

According to Hearst, Netanyahu’s years-long effort to dismantle Iran may have taken a turn for the worse. By exposing its population to a new type of conflict, Israel has achieved little, and the outcome is not control, but peril.

Catch MEE LIVE, our new biweekly live news program, where we explore the news shaping our world through breaking coverage, expert analysis, and hard-hitting interviews.

GUEST EDITORIAL | IS BERLIN PLANNING A STRIKE ON MOSCOW? MERZ WROTE THE JUSTIFICATION –ASK IRAN

Kant is spinning in his grave, while Friedrich Merz is devising maxims from hell.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. © Maja Hitij/Getty Images

By Tarik Cyril Amar, a historian from Germany working at Koç University, Istanbul, on Russia, Ukraine, and Eastern Europe, the history of World War II, the cultural Cold War, and the politics of memory

@tarikcyrilamartarikcyrilamar.substack.comtarikcyrilamar.com

24 June 2025

Annotated by Abraham A. van Kempen
Sr. Editor

Put aside the fog of war. Even in times of conflict, some things are painfully clear. Take the so-called "Hamas-Israel War," for example. In reality, it's not a war at all, but a genocide – the Gaza Genocide, carried out by Israel against the Palestinians. Their unbroken resistance will be remembered in legends and history.

Likewise, Israel’s current assault on Iran—effectively a US-Israeli attack—is a criminal and "blatant act of aggression," as experts in international law agree. Israel is not acting under a UN mandate or in self-defense.

There's no complex legal basis for this assessment, and it's not open to good-faith debate. Israel’s attack clearly violates Article 2 (4) of the UN Charter, a universally recognized binding norm that's considered jus cogens.

There are a few widely accepted exceptions to this article’s ban on using force, but none of them apply here. These exceptions are very narrow and limited, like mistaken incursions, certain naval operations, or rescuing nationals. The Israeli attack also hasn't been approved by the UN Security Council, so it can't be considered lawful self-defense under Article 51.

So far, so simple. Misusing the concept of ‘preemptive strike’ by those spreading Israeli or Israel-Lobby disinformation is not surprising.

Read more
Zelensky has a Nazi problem. He can’t lie his way out of it.

What's more puzzling than the attack is how Western governments and mainstream media respond. After years of citing international law against Russia, these leaders will twist themselves into pretzels to let Israel do whatever it wants daily.

This is not news: Western 'elites’, led by Washington, have behaved poorly as accomplices in Israel’s Gaza Genocide. However, it's noteworthy how some Western politicians and their media and 'think tank' experts spin the attack on Iran.

Germany's Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, loudly endorses the assault on Iran, using indecent language that exposes his double racism. Calling Israel’s actions “dirty work” (or “Drecksarbeit” in German), he praises Jews for doing “our” dirty work. This racist praise echoes colonial attitudes, reminiscent of Kaiser Wilhelm II's gloating over Chinese massacres during the Boxer Rebellion.

While Merz has been clumsy in expressing his obnoxious ideas with equally obnoxious language, he is not alone. Many German outlets, like the Frankfurter Zeitung and Merkur, have quickly agreed or excused his vile statement. Overused 'experts’, such as the compliant and Russophobic Christian Mölling, have used their platform in Germany’s talk shows to cynically dismiss international law and portray Israel’s recent actions as unavoidable, overshadowing the law.

It's remarkable that Mölling openly argues that some countries (i.e., Israel) can’t afford the luxury of adhering to normative limits and that international law might be protecting the wrong parties (i.e., Iran). This is both stunningly bold and intellectually simplistic, and historically speaking, it's also disturbingly German in the worst way: If we or our allies (i.e., Israel) feel restricted by international law, then that’s a problem with international law, not us or our allies.

Read more
The EU’s favorite war: The one Israel starts

Let’s consider Immanuel Kant, a non-conformist Enlightenment thinker. Kant taught that reason and ethics require our actions' justifications to be generalizable in good conscience. Essentially, our actions should follow fair, reasonable rules.

Let’s generalize Friedrich Merz's statement and similar views: a country (like Israel), fearing another (like Iran), has a right—overriding international law—to attack it without provocation, even during negotiations.

That's interesting. Think about how German elites have been fueling war hysteria nonstop. It seems like every day, some German general, spy, or politician is telling their fellow Germans that Russia is likely to attack within the next few years—no evidence to back it up.

Really? So, if we're all supposed to be so intimidated by Russia in Germany, does that mean we should just preemptively strike Moscow based on Merzian logic? We could say we were threatened, and our military and intelligence services were warning us that the Russians were on their way. Plus, we’d probably claim we were proudly doing the dirty work for all of NATO (except, likely, the US). And isn’t doing the dirty work now considered a good thing in Germany?

Outrageous, you say? Absolutely, yes. Just as outrageous as Israel’s excuses for attacking Iran. And yet, those have been officially backed by a German chancellor, who even used some pretty revealing language. Let’s hope Moscow doesn't take Merz's words seriously. Because if they did, by Merz's own logic, they'd feel genuinely threatened by Berlin – and who knows where that might lead, by Merz's own logic.

BUILDING THE BRIDGE! | A WAY TO GET TO KNOW THE OTHER AND ONE ANOTHER

Making a Difference – The Means, Methods, and Mechanism for Many to Move Mountains

Photo Credit: Abraham A. van Kempen, our home away from home on the Dead Sea

By Abraham A. van Kempen
Senior Editor
Updated 19 January 2024

Those who commit to 'healing our broken humanity' build intercultural bridges to learn to know and understand one another and others. Readers who thumb through the Building the Bridge (BTB) pages are not mindless sheep following other mindless sheep. They THINK. They want to be at the forefront of making a difference. They're in search of the bigger picture to expand their horizons. They don't need BTB or anyone else to confirm their biases.

Making a Difference – The Means, Methods, and Mechanism for Many to Move Mountains

Accurate knowledge fosters understanding, dispels prejudice, and sparks a desire to learn more about the subject. Words have an extraordinary power to bring people together, divide them, forge bonds of friendship, or provoke hostility. Modern technology offers unprecedented possibilities for good, fostering harmony and reconciliation. Yet, its misuse can cause untold harm, leading to misunderstandings, prejudices, and conflicts.

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