Podcast Summary: VINCE – Episode 71: "A New Middle East: Did Trump's Gambit Pay Off?"

Introduction and Context

In Episode 71 of VINCE, released on June 24, 2025, host Vince Coglianese delves into the tumultuous developments in the Middle East, particularly focusing on the ceasefire between Iran and Israel orchestrated during Donald Trump's presidency. The episode provides an in-depth analysis of the political maneuvers, military actions, and diplomatic efforts that have shaped the current geopolitical landscape.

Shaky Ceasefire and Trump's Diplomatic Efforts

The episode begins with Vince recounting the recent 12-Day War between Iran and Israel, highlighting the fragile ceasefire that marked its conclusion. He states:

"We've watched over the last just about two weeks as we've had all of this, you know, the never-ending drive that we see between Iran and Israel and a pretty big battle going on as they've been lobbing all these missiles at each other." [02:00]

Vince emphasizes President Trump's role in seeking a diplomatic resolution, fulfilling his campaign promises to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to extricate the U.S. from unnecessary conflicts. He notes the President's strategic approach in dealing with both nations, ensuring that the United States maintains its interests without prolonged military engagement.

Recent Missile Barrage and Presidential Response

A pivotal moment discussed is the missile barrage launched by Iran at the Al Udi Air Base in Qatar:

"Yesterday they fired a half-assed missile barrage at Al Udi Air Base in Qatar. This is the largest presence of American troops in the region." [10:00]

Vince explains that the missile attack was a calculated move by Iran, providing advance notice which allowed the U.S. and Qatar to evacuate, leading to minimal damage and demonstrating Iran's weakening stance:

"The Iranians notified us ahead of time that the missiles were coming. When the missiles came in, they were easily shot down because they were performative missiles." [11:30]

President Trump's reaction was both stern and sardonic, criticizing Israel for its premature attacks and highlighting the chaotic nature of the ceasefire:

"We have two countries that have been fighting for so long and so hard that they don't know what the fuck they're doing. You understand that?" [16:07]

Analysis of Ceasefire Stability

Vince explores the stability of the ceasefire, citing statements from both President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He highlights the President's confidence in the ceasefire's durability, despite initial violations:

"President Trump expressed his great appreciation for Israel, which achieved all his objectives of the war, as well as his confidence in the ability, rather the stability of the ceasefire." [20:00]

Vince also brings in insights from KT McFarland, former Deputy National Security Advisor, who praises Trump's decisive actions and strategic communication:

"President Trump is totally in charge of everything now... If you're Bibi Netanyahu, you knock it off. And if you're one of the Iranian leaders... you better knock it off, too." [34:40]

Senate Challenges: The Big Beautiful Bill

Shifting focus to domestic politics, Vince discusses the hurdles in passing the "big beautiful bill" in the U.S. Senate. He critiques the role of Elizabeth McDonough, the Senate Parliamentarian, whom he accuses of obstructing Republican legislative efforts:

"Elizabeth McDonough... is removing provisions from the legislation that the Republicans in the House passed. These are things that the President wanted." [30:00]

Vince expresses frustration with Senate Majority Leader John Thune's reluctance to override McDonough's decisions, urging Republicans to persist:

"John Thune starts with, don't worry, I won't get in your way... Why would you take the weapon off the table three weeks ago? That's insane." [43:00]

Supreme Court Ruling on Deportations

The discussion transitions to a recent Supreme Court ruling supporting the Trump administration's aggressive deportation policies. Vince details the ruling and its immediate defiance by a Boston district judge:

"The Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to more quickly deport illegals to countries not specified in their removal orders." [50:00]

He criticizes the outruling judge, advocating for accountability and potential impeachment:

"That guy needs to be, at the least, impeached from his job... Another federal district judge drunk on power." [53:00]

Recent Developments and Domestic Issues

Vince touches upon the New York City mayoral primary, expressing strong opinions against the leading Democrat candidate, Zo Ron Mamdani, whom he labels a "psycho" and a "socialist." He contrasts him with the corrupt former governor Andrew Cuomo, highlighting the dire state of Democratic leadership:

"He's every incoherent leftist philosophy presented as a mayoral candidate... These are your options, New York." [55:00]

Conclusion

In wrapping up the episode, Vince underscores the significance of President Trump's actions both internationally and domestically. He lauds Trump's ability to navigate complex geopolitical waters, restore American leadership, and confront internal political challenges. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to support Republican efforts in the Senate and to oppose what Vince views as detrimental Democratic policies.

Notable Quotes:

• Vince: "We have two countries that have been fighting for so long and so hard that they don't know what the fuck they're doing. You understand that?" [16:07]

• J.D. Vance: "This could be something very, very big for the beginning of peace in the Middle East." [12:15]

• Stephen Miller: "Expect fireworks tomorrow when we hold this judge accountable for refusing to obey the Supreme Court." [52:17]

• Donald J. Trump: "Iran has officially responded to our obliteration of their nuclear facilities with a very weak response, which we expected and we have very effectively countered." [09:00]

Final Thoughts

Episode 71 of VINCE presents a robust critique of current political dynamics, celebrating Trump's diplomatic achievements while scrutinizing domestic legislative struggles and judicial overreach. Through detailed analysis and pointed commentary, Vince provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between international relations and U.S. politics.