9 chapters across the catalog
Journalist Abby Martin argues that the term "human shield" is a racist trope used by the "Empire" to justify mass slaughter in Gaza, Libya, and Iraq. The hosts dispute her claims regarding the density of Gaza compared to cities like San Francisco and Manhattan. They also review historical uses of the human shield narrative, including a 2022 report on ISIS detainees in Syria.
Ambulance Strike, IDF Claims, Hamas Transport Methods
The IDF claimed responsibility for striking an ambulance near Al-Shifa hospital, asserting it was being used by a Hamas terrorist cell to transport operatives and weapons. Hamas and the Palestinian Ministry of Health denied these claims, stating the vehicle was part of a medical convoy.
CNN Coverage, Red Cross Involvement, Julian Assange Video
CNN's reporting on the ambulance strike is scrutinized for its lack of definitive information. The hosts recall the Julian Assange "Collateral Murder" video to illustrate the historical reality of ambulances being targeted in war zones and dismiss the term "human shields" as a media meme.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett clashes with a Sky News anchor over the cutting of power to Gaza hospitals, comparing the fight against Hamas to fighting Nazis. Meanwhile, comedian Bassem Youssef appears on Piers Morgan's show, using satire to criticize the "human shield" argument and comparing the relationship with Israel to being with a "narcissistic psychopath." The hosts note the increasing use of "Nazi" as a universal label for enemies.
Amnesty International Report on Ukrainian War Crimes
Amnesty International published a report accusing the Ukrainian military of endangering civilians by establishing bases in residential areas, schools, and hospitals. President Zelensky condemned the report as "Russian propaganda," while NPR notes that the findings are technically accurate despite the political backlash.
An RT report from a Ukrainian village claims that the local army used civilians as human shields and confiscated cars for military use, leaving residents to travel by bicycle. Villagers are reportedly struggling with a lack of food, water, and electricity, requiring gasoline for generators. The report also mentions residents registering for new passports under Russian authority.
A document titled "The White Folks Guide to Protesting" has circulated within corporations and online, outlining specific behaviors for white participants in Black Lives Matter demonstrations. The guide instructs white allies to form human shields, remain silent at the front lines, and follow the directions of black protesters without question. While some suggest the document is a parody, others claim it accurately reflects the current dynamics of the protest movement.
Save the Children Syria Report and Target Practice Claims
The hosts deconstruct an 18-page PDF from Save the Children titled "Untold Atrocities," which UK Prime Minister David Cameron cited as a "report" on Syrian children being used for target practice. They argue the document is a promotional flyer lacking verifiable data or locations, serving as emotional propaganda for intervention.
NATO Bombing Campaign and Civilian Protection Mandate
NATO spokespeople maintain that the bombing campaign in Libya is strictly for the protection of civilians under a UN mandate. Despite thousands of sorties, the hosts note a lack of video evidence showing the actual impact of the bombings. They criticize the use of "human shield" rhetoric to justify strikes on mosques, schools, and hospitals.
