Ep. 2344 - GROSS: Hollywood Attacks ICE, Ignores SLAUGHTER In Iran - The Ben Shapiro Show Recap

Podcast: The Ben Shapiro Show

Published: 2026-01-12

Duration: 1 hr 8 min

Guests: Matt Frad

Summary

Hollywood's focus on ICE criticism at the Golden Globes overshadows the dire situation in Iran, where protests against the regime could signal its impending collapse. Meanwhile, President Trump's DOJ is investigating Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

What Happened

The episode opens with a stark comparison between Hollywood's vocal criticism of ICE and its silence on the severe human rights abuses in Iran. Celebrities at the Golden Globes directed their outrage at ICE and LGBTQ issues, while ignoring reports of thousands of protesters being killed by the Iranian regime. Ben Shapiro criticizes this selective outrage, highlighting the dire situation in Iran where the regime is in a precarious position due to internal protests and economic strain.

Shapiro discusses the geopolitical implications of Iran's instability. The Iranian regime is facing significant challenges, including regional conflicts and economic sanctions. The U.S. is considering seizing Iranian oil tankers to increase economic pressure, and Starlink is being deployed over Iran to ensure internet access amid the protests. The potential collapse of Iran's regime could have far-reaching effects on Middle Eastern geopolitics.

The episode also covers President Trump's Department of Justice launching a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. This development comes amidst revelations of a $700 million budget overrun in a Federal Reserve renovation project. Shapiro questions the motivations behind the investigation and its potential implications on the U.S. economy.

The role of ICE in the U.S. is another focal point, with Shapiro defending its actions as necessary for public safety. He references an incident involving Renee Goode, who was shot after obstructing ICE officers, to argue that the agency targets dangerous individuals. Despite protests and criticism from politicians like Ilhan Omar, Shapiro contends that ICE plays a crucial role in national security.

Iran's international relationships are also scrutinized, with Shapiro detailing its role as a major oil supplier to China and a military supplier to Russia. Iranian drones are reportedly being used in Ukraine, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. The Trump administration is considering actions to alter Middle Eastern geopolitics, potentially impacting global alliances.

The episode highlights the addition of Matt Frad's 'Pints with Aquinas' to the Daily Wire Plus lineup. Frad's show explores Christian apologetics and theology, aiming to engage a broad audience with discussions on the reliability of the Gospels and Christ's divinity. Shapiro promotes this new addition, noting its potential to reach a wide Christian audience.

Shapiro also promotes his new book, 'Lions and Scavengers: The True Story of America (and Her Critics)', and offers a membership promotion for the Daily Wire. He encourages listeners to engage with his content through various platforms and to support sponsors like PreBorn! Ministries, which focuses on saving babies from abortion.

Key Insights