Ep. 2381 - BOOTS on the GROUND in Iran - The Ben Shapiro Show Recap

Podcast: The Ben Shapiro Show

Published: 2026-03-05

Duration: 1 hr 1 min

Guests: Diliman Abdul Qader

Summary

Ben Shapiro examines the strategic implications of potential regime change in Iran, emphasizing the role of Kurdish allies in destabilizing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The episode delves into the geopolitical dynamics and historical context of Kurdish involvement in Iran.

What Happened

The episode begins with a discussion on the potential for regime change in Iran, highlighting the risks and opportunities such a shift could bring. Ben Shapiro argues that while 'regime change' has a mixed track record, it should not be dismissed outright, citing historical examples where it has succeeded, such as in Germany and South Korea.

Shapiro points out that the U.S. is not directly aiming for regime change but rather focusing on regime destruction or replacement. This strategy involves arming Kurdish insurgents to challenge the IRGC, with the Kurds historically aligning with the U.S. despite being abandoned at times.

The podcast provides insights into the ethnic and religious diversity of Iran, noting that only 32% of Iranians identify as religiously Shia, while a significant portion are atheists or agnostics. The Kurds, being the largest stateless population, are preparing to take significant action against the Iranian regime.

The episode discusses a coalition of five Kurdish groups poised to engage in operations in western Iran. The U.S. and Israel are reportedly providing arms and logistical support to these groups, as they pose a strategic challenge to the IRGC's control over the region.

Shapiro emphasizes the role of Iranian Kurds in recent protests against the Islamic Republic, noting their history of semi-autonomy and previous attempts at establishing an independent state. The Iranian regime's harsh measures against these groups, including drone strikes, are highlighted as part of their efforts to maintain control.

The geopolitical implications are further explored, with China's reliance on Iranian oil and its slowing economy being noted. The episode also touches on the technological edge held by the U.S. in AI innovation, which indirectly influences global power dynamics.

Shapiro critiques the European stance on Iran, labeling them as complainers, and contrasts this with the proactive approach of the U.S. and Israel in supporting the Kurds. He concludes with an assertion that chaos in Iran is preferable to the re-enshrinement of the Ayatollah's regime.

Key Insights

• Only 32% of Iranians identify as religiously Shia, revealing a more diverse religious landscape than commonly perceived. This diversity includes a significant portion of atheists and agnostics, challenging the monolithic image of Iran often portrayed in media.
• The U.S. and Israel's strategy in Iran involves arming Kurdish insurgents to destabilize the IRGC, despite the Kurds' history of being abandoned by their allies. This approach banks on the Kurds' longstanding alignment with U.S. interests, a risky yet potentially effective tactic given the Kurds' position as the largest stateless group.
• Iranian Kurds have played a pivotal role in recent protests against the Islamic Republic, leveraging their history of semi-autonomy and past attempts at statehood. The Iranian regime has responded with harsh measures, including drone strikes, to suppress these efforts.
• China's slowing economy and reliance on Iranian oil add a layer of complexity to the geopolitical situation. The U.S. maintains a technological edge in AI, which indirectly influences these global power dynamics, showcasing the intricate interplay between technology and geopolitics.

Key Questions Answered

What is the role of Kurdish groups in the potential regime change in Iran?

Kurdish groups are seen as key players in challenging the IRGC's control, with the U.S. and Israel reportedly providing them with arms and logistical support.

How does the U.S. view regime change in Iran?

The U.S. is focusing on regime destruction or replacement rather than direct regime change, aiming to weaken the IRGC by supporting Kurdish insurgents.

What are the geopolitical implications of Iran's current regime?

Iran's regime poses a threat due to its fundamentalist Islamist nature, impacting regional stability and drawing international attention to potential regime change scenarios.