4 chapters across the catalog
The *Frontline* documentary "Top Secret America," based on the work of Dana Priest, explores the massive expansion of the U.S. secret government post-9/11. The film details the friction between the CIA and the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), noting that JSOC often operates with less congressional oversight. Former CIA official Cofer Black is featured, discussing the "gloves coming off" in the war on terror.
Pakistan's strengthening relationship with China, described as an "all-weather friend," is viewed as a threat to U.S. interests. The hosts argue that the Bin Laden assassination provides a pretext for the U.S. to exit Afghanistan while maintaining a covert army to counter Chinese expansion. This strategy involves selling arms to India and increasing military pressure on Pakistan.
Pakistan Instability, Taliban Enclaves and CIA Operations
The security situation in Pakistan is deteriorating as the government cedes territory to Taliban enclaves. The Obama administration has reportedly authorized the CIA to broaden its targeting of radical groups within Pakistan through increased covert operations.
Covert Operations in Iran, New Yorker Report on Special Funding
A New Yorker magazine article reports that President George W. Bush requested $400 million from Congress for covert military operations in Iran. The funding, approved by the "Gang of Eight" including Nancy Pelosi, reportedly authorizes the use of deadly force. The hosts speculate that private contractors like Blackwater may be involved in these operations.
