The Shawn Ryan Show #220 Simone Ledeen - Fmr. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle East Policy
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Jul 21, 2025 
Simone Ledeen, a national security expert and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Middle East Policy, shares her insights on complex geopolitical issues. She critiques the current state of intelligence analysis and the need for reform, addressing educational shortcomings. The discussion also touches on U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions and military strategies in the Middle East. Ledeen reflects on her transformative experiences in Iraq and explores the impactful Abraham Accords, highlighting shifts in regional diplomacy.
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SWIFT's Role in Counterterrorism
- The SWIFT program enabled tracking terrorism financing via global electronic bank transfers.
- Despite privacy controversies, it was a critical tool for identifying terrorist money flows.
Hamza bin Laden Identity Clarified
- The real Hamza bin Laden is dead, but the name is used by others to rally terrorist groups.
- This brand name serves as a powerful symbol, regardless of the individual's actual status.
Afghanistan Withdrawal Disaster
- The chaotic US withdrawal from Afghanistan was a disaster with tragic consequences.
- The loss damaged America’s global standing and emboldened jihadists worldwide.
