Summary of "Best of the Glenn Beck Program | Guest: Steve Bannon | 6/24/25"
Release Date: June 24, 2025
Host: Glenn Beck
Guest: Steve Bannon
Network: Blaze Podcast Network
1. Introduction and Context
In this pivotal episode of "The Glenn Beck Program," Glenn Beck welcomes former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon for a deep dive into the tumultuous geopolitical landscape involving Iran and Israel. The conversation sets the stage by acknowledging past disagreements between Beck and Bannon, emphasizing their shared commitment to America's greatness and the necessity of unity over division.
Notable Quote:
Glenn Beck (00:00): "America is a really great place and we need to stop beating each other over the head."
2. Iran-Israel Ceasefire Breakdown
The core of the discussion revolves around the recent deterioration of the ceasefire between Iran and Israel. Beck recounts the formation and collapse of a 24-hour ceasefire agreement brokered by former President Donald Trump, highlighting the strategic maneuvers and military actions that led to distrust and renewed conflict.
Key Points:
- Ceasefire Terms: Aimed for a 24-hour period divided into two 12-hour phases for Iran and Israel to halt hostilities.
- Violation Allegations: Both nations accused each other of violating the ceasefire, leading to intensified tensions.
- Military Actions: Details of Israeli missile strikes and the implications of such actions on the regional stability.
Notable Quotes:
Glenn Beck (05:08): "They took out all they knew right where these guys were and convince them to all gather together. Some of them, you guys should get together and have a little party."
Stu Burguiere (04:43): "He’s going to run and hide and I guess, I don't know, I mean, I suppose if you're standing up for your country, you're not going to do those things."
3. Donald Trump's Role and Negotiation Tactics
Beck and Bannon analyze Donald Trump's unconventional approach to diplomacy, particularly his public declarations and the potential consequences of his negotiation style. They debate whether Trump's actions were a genuine attempt at peace or a strategic maneuver for regime change.
Key Points:
- Public Negotiations: Trump's tendency to announce deals and ceasefires publicly, sometimes before formal agreements are secured.
- Regime Change Implications: Speculation on whether the military actions were aimed at destabilizing the Iranian regime.
- Impact on the American Base: Discussion on how Trump's handling of foreign policy affects his support base and the broader MAGA movement.
Notable Quotes:
Steve Bannon (21:11): "He's worked overtime, went with the Qataris, I think, also UAE, you know, MBZ and got to work at this ceasefire."
Glenn Beck (16:55): "We cannot trust that what is happening in front of us is finished. What we have to ask ourselves, are we still in the final stages of negotiation?"
4. The Complexity of Modern Warfare and Intelligence
The conversation delves into the complexities of modern warfare, especially the role of intelligence in preemptive strikes. Bannon shares his military experience to critique the recent missile strikes, questioning the validity and urgency of the intelligence that prompted such actions.
Key Points:
- Intelligence Discrepancies: Disparities between CIA reports and on-the-ground intelligence leading to sudden military engagements.
- Military Strategy Critique: Bannon's perspective on the logistical and strategic flaws in the missile strike operations.
- Regime Change vs. Defense: Balancing the objectives of defending interests versus pursuing regime change.
Notable Quotes:
Steve Bannon (29:23): "The intelligence is different, and this has been said now by Marco Rubio and other people that the intelligence is different than the intelligence that IC community had."
Steve Bannon (34:05): "President Trump, I think it's one and done. And now he's got a ceasefire and he's very specific."
5. Historical Reflection: World War II Veteran's Story
Beck shares an emotional segment featuring a World War II veteran, Papa Jake, reflecting on VE Day. This interlude serves to draw parallels between past and present conflicts, emphasizing the sacrifices made for freedom and the importance of unity and patriotism.
Key Points:
- Personal Sacrifice: The veteran's recount of the war's end and the relief of returning home without injury.
- Value of Freedom: A poignant reminder of the cost of liberty and the responsibility to preserve it.
- Patriotic Sentiment: Encouragement to emulate the veteran's love for country and mutual respect among citizens.
Notable Quotes:
World War II Veteran (34:47): "How can you land on Omaha Beach on D day and get through that minefield without a scratch?"
Glenn Beck (37:16): "There's something about people who lived back then that is just different."
6. The Future of American Patriotism and Global Relations
In the concluding segments, Beck and Bannon discuss the broader implications of current foreign policies on American patriotism and international alliances. They advocate for a reevaluation of America's role as a global protectorate and stress the need for genuine self-reliance and national pride.
Key Points:
- Support for Israel: Affirmation of unwavering support for Israel's right to defend itself, balanced with skepticism of deep entanglements.
- Patriotic Call: Encouraging listeners to embrace a sense of pride and responsibility towards their country.
- Future Outlook: Hints at upcoming discussions and revelations related to policy and national strategy.
Notable Quotes:
Steve Bannon (27:06): "We're adamant supporters of Israel and the state of Israel and particularly given... they've been fighting so long and so hard that they don't know what they're doing."
Glenn Beck (43:24): "I love that. Now, that's not going to go necessarily with all of our interests... make Britain great again."
Conclusion
This episode of "The Glenn Beck Program" offers a comprehensive exploration of the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel, the strategic decisions of former President Donald Trump, and the enduring importance of patriotism. Through insightful dialogue with Steve Bannon and reflective segments honoring historical sacrifices, Beck underscores the necessity of informed discourse and unwavering commitment to America's principles.
For listeners who missed the episode, this summary encapsulates the critical discussions and viewpoints presented by Glenn Beck and Steve Bannon, providing a clear understanding of the complex geopolitical issues at hand.