Caitlin’s Newsletter

Caitlin's Newsletter, authored by Caitlin Johnstone, features critical analyses of global politics, focusing on conflict zones like Gaza, militarism, Western hypocrisy, the media's role in shaping perceptions, and the societal impact of policies driven by powerful elites. It also includes personal reflections, artistic expressions, and discussions on human rights.

Global Politics Conflict and Warfare Western Hypocrisy Media and Perception Human Rights Art and Expression Personal Reflections

The hottest Substack posts of Caitlin’s Newsletter

And their main takeaways

Anti-Genocide Activism Is Terrorism In The Empire Of Lies

1904 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Genocide Propaganda Human Rights Public Perception
  1. Anti-genocide protesters are being labeled as terrorists, showing how the truth can get twisted in today’s world. It’s a surprising reality when those fighting against injustice are seen as the bad guys.
  2. Israel is restricting journalists from covering the situation in Gaza, making it hard for people to see what's really happening. This highlights a concerning trend where media access is limited to control the narrative.
  3. More people are feeling confident to speak out about Palestine and its issues. You don't need to be an expert; just speaking up about what feels wrong can make a difference.

The Empire Has Accidentally Caused The Rebirth Of Real Counterculture In The West

6621 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Politics Society Youth
  1. There's a new real counterculture forming in the West, especially seen at events like the Glastonbury Festival. Artists and fans are openly supporting movements like Palestine and really standing up to the establishment.
  2. For a long time, people in pop culture have acted rebellious but didn't challenge real power. Now, artists are risking censure and backlash from the government because they are speaking out about important social issues.
  3. Young people today feel frustrated and disillusioned, which is driving them to express their defiance. With social media, they see injustices firsthand, making it easier for them to rally together for impactful change.

The New Issue Of JOHNSTONE: This Is Israel

940 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Middle East Human Rights War Studies
  1. Israel's current actions aren't just about its leaders; they stem from a long history of foundational ideologies that promote a certain type of nationalism and militarism.
  2. The recent behaviors and policies of Israel are seen as a continuation of its historical narrative, not a temporary deviation caused by specific politicians.
  3. Challenging the mainstream narratives about Israel and its actions is essential because it could lead to a better understanding of the complexities involved in its history.

Israel Supporters Are Exhausting, Insufferable Narcissists

3590 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Social Issues Public Opinion Political Activism
  1. Israel supporters often focus on their feelings instead of the larger issues, like the ongoing violence and suffering in Gaza. It's important to recognize the real human suffering in conflicts.
  2. There's a belief that the push for a war between the US and Iran is being driven by those in power, and people who oppose this need to make their voices heard. Grassroots support for peace is crucial.
  3. The narrative around support for Palestine is growing, but many people still downplay it. It's essential to notice those who speak out and the shift in public opinion.

New Painting Video: Baby Killer Benny

1178 implied HN points • 03 Jul 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Painting Creative Process
  1. There's a new painting video about Benjamin Netanyahu, where the creator discusses his recent comments on war crimes. It’s a creative way to engage in political commentary.
  2. The artist encourages viewers to watch the video on YouTube and offers various ways to support their work. They emphasize that all work is freely available for sharing and reuse.
  3. This newsletter is reader-supported, highlighting the importance of community backing for independent creators. It's a reminder that we can help keep such voices active.
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The Trumpanyahu Administration

1872 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Foreign Relations Civil Rights Legislation
  1. The relationship between Trump and Netanyahu seems very close, with Netanyahu visiting the White House frequently. It almost feels like he has a special place in the administration.
  2. There's a contrast in how the U.S. addresses free speech—like denying entry to artists for their views—compared to how it interacts with Israel's legal matters. This raises questions about consistency in values.
  3. The U.S. appears willing to intervene in Israel's internal issues, especially around Netanyahu's corruption trial, while being hands-off regarding Israel's actions in conflict. This shows a strong bond between the two governments.

Practice Small, Daily Acts Of Sabotage Against The Imperial Machine

2696 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government War Media Public Opinion Social justice
  1. Do something small every day to challenge and change how people see powerful systems and institutions. It can be as simple as sharing information or sparking conversations.
  2. Help others see the negative impacts of governments and powerful groups on daily life. Point out the lies and manipulations to foster a clearer understanding of reality.
  3. Collectively, we can work toward a better society by opening each other's eyes to the truth. Even small acts can contribute to major change when done together.

Netanyahu Says It's Antisemitic For Israeli Soldiers To Describe Their Own Atrocities

3772 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Campaigns Elections Military
  1. Israeli leaders are saying it's antisemitic for soldiers to talk about the bad things they did in Gaza. This is a strong reaction to reports that claim Israeli soldiers were ordered to shoot at unarmed civilians.
  2. Soldiers shared their experiences of being told to use lethal force on people seeking humanitarian aid. They said there was no real danger, yet they were ordered to fire on unarmed crowds.
  3. The Israeli government is defending its military by calling these reports false and harmful. They argue that the claims aim to damage the reputation of the Israeli Defense Forces, which they consider very moral.

Uh-Oh! Political Antisemitism Smears Have Stopped Working!

2887 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Discourse Social movements Identity politics Public Opinion
  1. Antisemitism accusations seem to be losing their effectiveness in politics. This is seen with the recent success of a pro-Palestinian candidate in New York City.
  2. There is a noticeable increase in public anti-Muslim sentiment, which highlights a troubling shift in discourse. This can be linked to the political landscape and global events.
  3. Criticism of Israel is becoming more accepted in America. Some believe that pressing these issues may help prevent a potential conflict with Iran.

Dear Israel Apologist

3189 implied HN points • 26 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Media Criticism Military Actions Public Opinion
  1. The person will keep opposing Israel's actions, no matter what others say. They believe that truth and morality are on their side.
  2. Words and arguments used to justify violence and suffering do not hold power anymore. The individual feels empowered by facts and a strong sense of confidence.
  3. There's a commitment to fight against the systems and ideologies that support violence and oppression. They feel that many people share this passion and won't be silenced.

The Fictional Mental Illness That Only Affects Enemies Of The Western Empire

2631 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Media Critique Imperialism War Politics
  1. There is a narrative that makes it seem like only enemies of the West are irrational or crazy. This story portrays them as dangerous just because they oppose the US.
  2. In reality, the US and its allies are often the ones causing conflicts, while countries labeled as 'crazy' are reacting to aggression. This power dynamic is often overlooked.
  3. People who challenge this mainstream view may find themselves dismissed as conspiracy theorists, even though questioning these narratives is important for understanding global issues.

Mike Huckabee Is A Deranged Armageddon Cultist

6733 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Foreign Relations Public Opinion
  1. Mike Huckabee's text to Trump emphasizes a strong religious belief in his role as a servant, suggesting a deep connection between power and faith. This raises questions about the influence of religious fanaticism in politics.
  2. The tensions with Iran are more about power and control than actual threats from nuclear weapons. The U.S. and Israel seek to dominate the region, regardless of Iran's nuclear ambitions.
  3. People can be misled by political figures, but it's important to recognize when you've been fooled. Admitting mistakes is a key step towards understanding the truth and reshaping your beliefs.

Iran Shows Us Why The US And Israel Should Not Be Allowed To Have Nukes

2589 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Nuclear policy International relations Military Actions Diplomatic Relations
  1. Iran's actions show that it can exercise restraint even when attacked, while the US and Israel are often seen as aggressive. This raises questions about who should really have nuclear weapons.
  2. There are no solid proof that Iran is trying to develop nuclear weapons, yet the US actions might push Iran to consider it as a defense strategy.
  3. Diplomatic agreements like the Iran nuclear deal were working well until they were scrapped, leading to more tension instead of peaceful resolutions.

Trump Has Bombed Iran. What Happens Next Is His Fault.

2896 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Action International relations Political Accountability
  1. The U.S. military has bombed Iranian nuclear sites, which puts American troops in danger of retaliation. This could escalate into a full-scale war.
  2. Iran warned that they would attack U.S. bases in response to the bombings. If U.S. troops are harmed, it will not be the fault of Iran but the fault of those who made the decision to attack.
  3. The situation could have been avoided if previous diplomatic agreements with Iran were honored. Instead, actions taken have led to a potential crisis that could worsen.

Tulsi Gabbard Is A Warmongering Asshole

3208 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Foreign Policy Government Accountability
  1. Tulsi Gabbard has changed her stance on Iran, now aligning with Trump despite previously criticizing his policies. This suggests she's prioritizing her political ambitions over her past beliefs.
  2. Gabbard's comments about Iran being close to making nuclear weapons contradict earlier intelligence assessments. This raises questions about her honesty and motivations.
  3. Many feel betrayed by Gabbard, believing she misled people about her anti-war views to gain support. Her actions now seem like a betrayal of those who truly want peace.

US State Department Spokeswoman Says Israel Is Greater Than America

2360 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Government Media Public Opinion International relations
  1. A U.S. State Department spokeswoman claimed Israel is a better country than America, which raised some eyebrows about U.S. foreign policy priorities.
  2. There are concerns that many political leaders prioritize Israel over American interests, and this is seen as problematic by some people.
  3. Debates around U.S. involvement in Israel and Iran reveal deeper issues about how foreign policy decisions impact everyday Americans.

Israel Supporters Will Be Despised For The Rest of Their Lives

2621 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East War Human Rights Public Opinion Foreign Policy
  1. Supporting Israel will likely lead to long-lasting negative views from others. Many believe that those who backed harmful actions won't easily escape their past.
  2. Activism against violence in Gaza is sometimes labeled as terrorism, showing a troubling trend in how society views peace efforts.
  3. Critics argue that Western media skews perceptions of Iran, making it harder to understand its actual actions and intent in international politics.

War Is The Worst Thing In The World

2379 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics War Peace Conflict Diplomacy Power
  1. War causes immense suffering and destruction, impacting everyone involved. It turns life into a nightmare filled with pain and loss.
  2. People in power often push for wars for their own gain, manipulating others by claiming it’s for noble reasons like freedom or self-defense.
  3. Opposing war is seen as radical, but those promoting peace are the ones truly fighting for a better world, and their voices should not be silenced.

After Iraq There's No Excuse For Buying The War Lies About Iran

3017 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Media Military International relations
  1. People shouldn't believe in war lies, especially after the evidence from Iraq. We have more information now, and it's important to think critically about what we're told.
  2. The conflict with Iran isn't just about nuclear weapons; it's really about control and power in the region. These reasons are often hidden behind official narratives.
  3. The situation in Gaza is closely tied to larger conflicts and could escalate into a bigger war. It's crucial to pay attention to these issues because they affect many lives.

Bombing Hospitals Is Bad Again

2277 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Human Rights Media Criticism Public Opinion
  1. Bombing hospitals is a serious issue, and it's bad no matter who does it. Sometimes the media only pays attention when it serves a certain narrative.
  2. Countries like Israel attack hospitals more frequently than reported, leading to suffering in places like Gaza. The situation shows a double standard in how we view different nations' actions.
  3. Many reasons given for going to war are based on lies or misleading claims about wanting to help people. The truth is often about power and control, not the welfare of others.

We Must Oppose War With Iran At The Top Of Our Lungs

3036 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War Policy Foreign Relations Legislation Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. A potential war with Iran could lead to huge loss of life and serious global problems, making it critical to stop such plans.
  2. There might be manipulation and propaganda used to convince people to support the war, so it's important to be skeptical of the information shared.
  3. It's essential to speak out against the warmongering and show strong opposition, as supporting this war goes against the well-being of humanity.

George Dubya Trump Seeks Regime Change In Iran

1583 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Foreign affairs Political Commentary
  1. Trump is talking about changing the government in Iran, which he claims is necessary for making the country great again. He uses a catchy phrase to appeal to his supporters.
  2. His comments didn't match what his own administration said earlier about not wanting regime change in Iran. This shows a disconnect between his words and official policy.
  3. Trump's message seems to link traditional war strategies with his current political style, trying to gain support from both populists and traditional war supporters.

If It's To Be War With Iran, Let It Be The War That Nobody Comes To

2854 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Foreign Policy War Defense Political Commentary
  1. If the US goes to war with Iran, many soldiers might die for no good reason. It's not about freedom, but about decisions made by powerful people.
  2. Joining the military in this situation could lead to suffering without purpose, so it's better to avoid it if possible.
  3. Wars can often be pointless, and it's sad to think about fighting and dying for reasons that are not really justified.

We Are, Of Course, Being Lied To About Iran

2747 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War Foreign Policy Media Propaganda Nuclear Issues
  1. There are many lies surrounding the conflict between Iran and Israel, specifically regarding Iran's alleged nuclear weapons program. People should question these claims because historical evidence shows Iran has not been building nuclear weapons.
  2. Some officials are spreading false narratives to justify military actions against Iran. It's important to look for substantial evidence before believing such claims.
  3. Past experiences show that governments and media often lie to gain public support for wars. It's crucial to remain skeptical and demand clear evidence about these situations.

Israel's Own Actions Invalidate All Pro-Israel Arguments

2551 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Middle East Conflict resolution International relations
  1. Israel's actions contradict arguments supporting its existence and policies. Many believe that a Jewish homeland leads to violence and injustice, and this is visible today.
  2. There is a growing stance that there's no reason to support Israel's current actions or status. Critics argue that Israel's policies are rooted in systemic issues that need to change.
  3. Ending the apartheid state and establishing equal rights for Palestinians is seen as a logical solution. Many call for reparations to address historical injustices.

Fox News Just Helped Netanyahu Spread The Lie That Iran Tried To Assassinate Trump

2058 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Foreign Policy Propaganda Political Ethics
  1. Netanyahu made strong claims on Fox News about Iran trying to assassinate Trump, but there was no evidence to support this. It's important to question such serious accusations, especially when they're presented without proof.
  2. The interview showed how some media outlets might promote misinformation without challenging what powerful figures say. This could mislead viewers and shape public opinion negatively.
  3. There's a concern that the media often works to further the goals of powerful interests rather than providing unbiased news. It's a reminder to stay critical of what we see and hear in the news.

Israel Is Bombing Iran. Here Are Some Future New York Times Headlines.

2579 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Middle East Military Action Media Critique Public Opinion
  1. Israel has started bombing Iran with claims of making preemptive strikes, but the media is just repeating these claims without proof.
  2. Future headlines might twist the story to show Israel as a victim and the U.S. as an innocent bystander.
  3. There are concerns about the U.S. getting more involved in Middle Eastern conflicts, which many people fear could lead to a bigger war.

Refresher On The Rules For Discussing Israeli Wars

2258 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Public Discourse Media Criticism National Security
  1. Israel is seen as always acting in self-defense, never as the aggressor in conflicts. It's believed that any attack is just a reaction to past events or a way to prevent future threats.
  2. Criticism of Israel's actions is often viewed as hate towards Jewish people. There's a belief that anyone who speaks against Israel does so out of malicious intent.
  3. The media and official narratives tend to defend Israel while painting its opponents in a negative light, suggesting that it’s wrong to question these portrayals.

This Was All So Very Avoidable

1993 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Political Commentary Government Accountability
  1. Peace in the Middle East was possible if the involved parties had taken the right diplomatic steps. It’s frustrating to see how close they were to an agreement that could have changed everything.
  2. The US's involvement in Israel's conflicts has escalated tensions and violence in the region. A stronger antiwar stance should focus on pulling the US out of these wars rather than just staying away.
  3. Right now, there are serious concerns about potential false flag attacks designed to manipulate public opinion and spark further conflict. It’s important to be aware of these troubling possibilities.

Sky News Smears Greta Thunberg As A Nazi To Justify IDF Attack

2589 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media bias Activism International relations Public Opinion Israel-Palestine
  1. Greta Thunberg and others were on a ship aiming to deliver aid to Gaza when they were attacked by Israeli forces. This incident highlights the risks faced by those trying to help in conflict zones.
  2. A Sky News anchor suggested that Thunberg's past criticisms of Israel and accusations against her were reasons to justify the attack. This reflects how criticism of Israel can lead to serious backlash and dangerous situations.
  3. The article argues that support for Israel often relies on false narratives and a lack of moral reasoning, making it difficult to have honest conversations about the conflict and humanitarian issues.

Offending Zionists Is Good, Actually

2407 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Civil Rights Media influence Public Opinion Political Discourse
  1. It's okay to upset people who support harmful actions. If your words make them angry, it often means you're standing up for what's right.
  2. Many arguments supporting Israel lack solid reasoning. People are often swayed by confident claims rather than the truth.
  3. There is a misconception that Jewish people in the West face the same level of discrimination as other minorities. This is often used to deflect criticism of Israel's actions.

After Denying Massacring Civilians Seeking Aid, Israel Routinely Massacres Civilians Seeking Aid

1983 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights International Law Military Action Conflict resolution
  1. Israel has repeatedly denied accusations of harming civilians seeking aid, but reports indicate that many have been killed during these events.
  2. There have been multiple incidents where Israeli forces opened fire on crowds trying to access humanitarian assistance in Gaza, leading to significant casualties.
  3. Despite the denials from Israeli officials, evidence from media reports suggests that these actions are ongoing and that Israel has a history of not being truthful about its military operations.

Staring Down The Barrel Of War With Iran Once Again

1848 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Middle East International relations National Security
  1. The US might be heading for war with Iran again, with officials warning about potential attacks and military evacuations happening in the region.
  2. If Iran retaliates to an Israeli attack, it could cause a large-scale conflict that would be worse than past wars in the Middle East.
  3. The current situation could be avoided if the US stopped supporting Israel, but it's clear that the US has chosen to remain involved.

Israel Cuts Gaza's Internet Amid Soaring IDF Atrocities

1760 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Media Human Rights International relations Censorship
  1. Israel has cut off internet access in Gaza, making it hard for people to communicate or share what's happening there. This isolation is worsening the already dire situation for residents.
  2. The violence in Gaza has intensified, with reports of many civilians being killed while seeking basic needs like food. The ongoing situation raises concerns about human rights and the protection of civilians.
  3. Israel appears to be trying to control the narrative by blocking media coverage and preventing journalists from entering Gaza. This limits the world's understanding of the events occurring there.

A Truth-Based Relationship With Reality Requires Courage

2123 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society Truth Media Justice Health
  1. Facing the harsh realities of the world, like suffering and injustice, takes real courage. It's uncomfortable, but it's necessary for healing.
  2. Truth can be scary, but it's the only way to improve ourselves and our society. To find peace and happiness, we must confront our hidden fears and lies.
  3. Changing the world requires small, brave steps towards truth. Each person must face their own darkness and contribute to creating a healthier and more harmonious future.

Anyone Who Wants The Ukraine War To Continue Is A Monster

2333 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. The Ukraine war needs to end because many Ukrainians want peace. Wishing for the war to continue is seen as cruel and inhumane.
  2. The leaders responsible for escalating this conflict should be held accountable for their actions. Their decisions have led to immense suffering and chaos.
  3. There's a concern that those who caused this crisis will not face any consequences, which raises fears about future conflicts. We need to demand better leadership for a peaceful world.

Meditations On The Notion That Obama "Never Had Any Scandals"

2249 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Critique Public Perception Historical Analysis Government Accountability
  1. Barack Obama is often seen as scandal-free compared to other presidents, but this ignores serious actions he took that caused harm. Many people focus more on political feelings rather than real events.
  2. A lot of Americans don't recognize the destructive consequences of U.S. actions abroad, viewing them as problems only for other countries. This shows a disconnect from the reality of global issues.
  3. The media and social platforms shape our thoughts and beliefs, leading to a limited understanding of what's really happening. It’s important to question and think critically to have a clearer view of the world.

I Write About Israel All The Time Because I Have To, Not Because I Want To

2267 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Civil Rights Military Actions Middle East Political Commentary
  1. The situation in Gaza includes severe human rights violations and reports of torture. It's really troubling and many people feel compelled to speak out about it.
  2. Critics of Israel's actions often face accusations of antisemitism, which confuses the discussion about the state's actions with issues related to all Jewish people.
  3. Many people are frustrated with the political leaders who seem to support harmful actions against vulnerable populations, and it's important to hold them accountable regardless of their party.

Washington Drops Ukraine, Israel Backs Down On Hamas Demands

2360 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy National Security International relations Geopolitics Conflict resolution
  1. The U.S. is no longer supporting Ukraine's NATO membership and is discussing territory compromises for peace, which could deeply affect Ukraine's future.
  2. Israel appears to be easing its stance regarding a ceasefire with Hamas, leading to an increased flow of aid into Gaza.
  3. This situation serves as a reminder for other allies of the U.S. about the potential risks of getting involved in conflicts tied to U.S. interests.