The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report analyzes US foreign policy, economic conditions, and civil liberties, focusing on Israel's policies towards Palestinians, the manipulation of historical narratives, censorship, the exploitation of identity politics, and the consequences of US-led wars. It highlights systemic injustices, genocide allegations, and the complicity of Western governments.

US Foreign Policy Economic Conditions Civil Liberties Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Historical Narratives Censorship and Free Speech Identity Politics US-led Wars Genocide and War Crimes Western Government Complicity

The hottest Substack posts of The Chris Hedges Report

And their main takeaways

Starvation and Profiteering in Gaza (w/ Francesca Albanese) | The Chris Hedges Report

128 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International Law Human Rights Middle East Genocide Colonialism
  1. The situation in Gaza is extremely dire, with many people facing starvation and suffering due to a siege imposed by Israel. Francesca Albanese emphasizes that other nations must recognize their duty under international law to aid Palestine and break the siege.
  2. Albanese points out that there are powerful corporations benefiting from the ongoing occupation and humanitarian crisis in Palestine. She is preparing a report that will reveal how these companies profit from the suffering of the Palestinian people.
  3. The global community is beginning to unite in awareness and support for Palestine, particularly among countries in the Global South. There is a growing recognition of the historical injustices of colonialism and calls for accountability and action against those who profit from these injustices.

Chris Hedges: War With Iran

469 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics War Foreign Policy Middle East Military Diplomacy
  1. War can bring many unpredictable problems that are hard to control. Once it starts, things can spiral out of hand quickly.
  2. The past wars in the Middle East taught us that strong military actions may not bring peace or a good outcome. Ignoring local people's feelings can lead to more resistance.
  3. A war with Iran could lead to even more violence and retaliation, affecting many lives. The military doesn't seem prepared for what comes next.

'They Cooked Up Their Own Intelligence' Chris Hedges on Israel’s war on Iran | The Listening Post

195 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Media Analysis War history Iraq War
  1. The situation with Iran is similar to what we saw with Iraq in 2003, using weak reasons for conflict.
  2. Media coverage often lacks depth and fails to question the justifications provided.
  3. Historical patterns suggest that misleading intelligence is frequently used to support military actions.

War Deja Vu

378 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Powers Intelligence Media Criticism Political History
  1. The same false claims used to justify the Iraq war are being revived to push for a war with Iran. It's like we're hearing the same story all over again.
  2. Many people ignore important intelligence reports that say Iran isn't a threat, instead believing exaggerated fears pushed by war supporters. These claims have been proved wrong before.
  3. The history of U.S. involvement in Iran has been one of interference and conflict. This history makes it hard for the U.S. to claim it's spreading democracy in Iran.

'WE WOULD LOSE' War with Iran (w/ Col. Lawrence Wilkerson)

170 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Policy National Security Geopolitics War Analysis
  1. A war with Iran could lead to significant losses for the United States. It would not be an easy conflict.
  2. Expert opinions suggest that military action may not solve the underlying issues. Diplomacy could be a better approach.
  3. Raising awareness about the risks of conflict is crucial. It's important for people to understand the potential consequences of war.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

The Last Days of Gaza

1109 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Middle East Political Conflict Civil Rights
  1. Many people in Gaza are suffering greatly, lacking basic needs like food, water, and medicine. The situation has become extremely desperate and dangerous for everyone there.
  2. Some actions being taken appear to manipulate and control the starving population instead of genuinely helping them. This is compared to historical instances of mass suffering and deception.
  3. The ongoing tragedy in Gaza is causing deep scars that will not easily be forgotten. People may later try to rewrite history to avoid facing their roles in the situation.

The Folly of A War With Iran

548 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military International relations Middle East Conflict
  1. A war with Iran could lead to severe consequences, as Iran has strong military alliances and resources, making it a tough opponent. It wouldn't be an easy conflict for Israel or the U.S.
  2. The potential conflict might not only distract from human rights issues in Gaza and the West Bank, but also escalate tensions in the entire region, possibly making alliances stronger between Iran, Russia, and China.
  3. Past military interventions have often resulted in unforeseen complications and long-term struggles. The belief that a quick military solution will work against Iran ignores the lessons learned from previous wars.

The Rule of Idiots

1051 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Governance Corruption Political theory Civil Rights
  1. In times of trouble for societies, foolish leaders often rise up. They reflect the society's own troubles and disconnect from reality.
  2. A failing government tends to serve the rich and powerful instead of its citizens. It loses its ability to protect the rights and needs of the people.
  3. When a society stops valuing honesty, the common good, and moral behavior, it begins to fall apart. Chaos and unethical actions replace order and integrity.

Iran, Israel, USA and World War 3 | Chris Hedges | UNAPOLOGETIC

125 implied HN points • 20 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Geopolitics War Analysis
  1. The conflict between Israel and Iran could have serious consequences, including the risk of drawing the USA into a larger war.
  2. There are concerns about whether the shifting priorities of Israel and the Pentagon are genuine or just a cover for ongoing issues in the region.
  3. The actions of Arab states in response to the situation may lead to negative consequences for them in the future.

Why You Should Hate the Rich Even More (w/ Rob Larson)

155 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Wealth Inequality Political Power Elections Labor Movement Socialism
  1. The wealthy are separated from the rest of society, living in exclusive environments and detached from the struggles of everyday people. Their lifestyle leads them to misunderstand the reality faced by the majority.
  2. Wealth inequality is a significant issue, with a small percentage of the population hoarding a large portion of resources. This imbalance affects economies and makes life harder for many, particularly in accessing housing and basic needs.
  3. To combat the negative effects of wealthy dominance, community building and labor organizing are crucial. Working together in local groups can help foster change and challenge the status quo.

Q&A: Genocide in Gaza, Political Assassinations in America and War With Iran

80 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues War Human Rights International relations
  1. The situation in Gaza is very serious and being described as genocide. Many people are concerned about the impact on civilians.
  2. Political assassinations are happening in America, raising questions about safety and trust in leadership.
  3. There is an ongoing discussion about the possibility of war with Iran, which is causing tension and worry among different communities.

Q&A: Genocide in Gaza, Political Assassinations in America and War With Iran (Tomorrow, 7pm ET)

74 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Military Affairs International relations Civil Rights Public Opinion
  1. There will be a live Q&A discussing important topics like the situation in Gaza and the potential war with Iran. It's happening tomorrow at 7pm ET.
  2. People can ask questions during the livestream on YouTube or X, but you need to be a paid subscriber to post questions on the Substack.
  3. If you miss the live stream, you can still watch it later on all platforms once it's done.

Journalists and Their Shadows (w/ Patrick Lawrence) | The Chris Hedges Report

90 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Journalism Political Power Corporate Influence Public Debate
  1. Mainstream media often serves the interests of the powerful rather than effectively informing the public. This compromises journalism's role in promoting open debate and public understanding.
  2. Journalists today often work under corporate pressures that distort their reporting, making them more likely to follow narratives that align with those in power instead of pursuing objective truth.
  3. Independent media outlets are becoming crucial for the future of journalism. They can provide more accurate information, but they also face increasing challenges and censorship in the digital age.

'The Biggest Problems in Legacy Media:' A Conversation With Chris Hedges and Hasan Piker

119 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Fascism Gaza Books Interviews
  1. Legacy media often struggles to cover important issues, leading to misinformation and a lack of public understanding.
  2. The ongoing situation in Gaza is a significant topic that needs more attention and compassion from both media and the public.
  3. There is a growing concern that the U.S. is moving towards authoritarianism, which requires vigilant critique from society.

How 'Paradise Lost' Revolutionized the World (w/ Orlando Reade) | The Chris Hedges Report

92 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
📚 Literature Poetry Historical context Literary Criticism Philosophy Cultural influence
  1. John Milton’s 'Paradise Lost' has influenced many revolutionary thinkers throughout history, showing the poem's themes are still relevant today. Writers and leaders like Thomas Jefferson and Malcolm X found inspiration in its critique of authority.
  2. The character of Satan in 'Paradise Lost' reflects Milton’s own experiences as a failed revolutionary, which raises questions about power, rebellion, and the nature of good and evil.
  3. Milton’s work emphasizes the importance of small, humble acts over grand revolutions, suggesting that real change often comes from quiet, everyday actions rather than violent upheaval.

The Shared Mythological History of Israel and the US (w/ Joan Scott) | The Chris Hedges Report

128 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East Cultural analysis Narratives Zionism Colonialism Mythology
  1. The histories of Israel and the US are deeply intertwined, often using shared myths to justify actions and policies, especially in relation to the Palestinians. This connection shapes how both nations view themselves as exceptional.
  2. The Holocaust plays a significant role in Israeli identity and the justification of its policies, creating a narrative that frames criticism as dangerous, echoing fears of historical victimization.
  3. Popular culture, like books and movies, has a powerful influence on shaping public perception of Israel and the Palestinians, often leading to biased narratives that ignore or simplify the complexities of the conflict.

Join Me in California This Weekend To Discuss My New Book: ‘A Genocide Foretold’

56 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Journalism Books Events Human Rights
  1. Chris Hedges is hosting events in California this weekend to talk about his new book, 'A Genocide Foretold'.
  2. The book discusses oppression and highlights the resilience of Palestinians, based on Hedges' extensive reporting.
  3. The events aim to gather activists, students, and truth-seekers for important discussions.

The Empire Self-Destructs

960 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Corruption Foreign Policy Civil Liberties State power
  1. Empires often collapse due to internal problems like corruption, poor decisions, and failed policies. When this happens, their power and influence break down too.
  2. Some leaders and groups are pushing for a more extreme and Christian-based government, which threatens the democratic and diverse values of society.
  3. The way the U.S. gives foreign aid is often harmful and designed to control other countries, leading to more inequality at home and abroad.

The Purge of the Deep State and the Road to Dictatorship

605 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Authoritarianism Civil Rights Political History Public Policy
  1. The Trump administration is pushing for a major shift in how the government operates, aiming to replace officials with their loyal supporters. This could lead to a situation where laws are only what the leaders say they are, weakening democracy.
  2. There are concerns about the increasing power of large corporations and technology companies, which could misuse personal data and control more aspects of government. This threatens both people's privacy and their rights.
  3. The rise of authoritarianism in leadership can lead to divisions in society, where dissenters face harsh repression. People are urged to resist this and hold onto their moral values, even if it seems difficult.

The Mafia State

575 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Economy Corruption Environment Society
  1. The current economic system is leading to great inequality, where the rich get richer while many others suffer. This creates a 'mafia state' that prioritizes the wealthy and exploits the rest.
  2. The degradation of environmental and social protections is harmful to everyone. Decisions being made today are damaging the planet and the well-being of many people.
  3. Reforming this system is not enough; systemic change is needed. Collective action and new ideas for social structure can help address these deep-rooted issues.

The Ceasefire Charade

591 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Palestine Israel Diplomacy
  1. Israel often makes agreements with the Palestinians that it does not keep. This leads to renewed violence after initial phases.
  2. There is ongoing suspicion and blame between Israel and Hamas over who is breaking ceasefire terms. Both sides have different interpretations of the deals.
  3. Historically, peace agreements have often not been fulfilled, leading to continued conflict and suffering for the people involved.

The Western Way of Genocide

453 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Human Rights Conflict International Law Military Affairs
  1. Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with no clean water or food, leading to widespread sickness and suffering among its population.
  2. The ongoing violence and destruction in Gaza are seen as part of a larger strategy to control resources and land, with little support from international allies to stop it.
  3. Historical patterns of genocide and oppression are highlighted, stressing that current actions are not unique, but rather resemble past atrocities committed by powerful nations against marginalized groups.

How Fascism Came

676 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Authoritarianism Social Inequality Corporate Influence
  1. America's democracy is facing big problems because both major political parties have sided with big companies and the rich. This has created a lot of social inequality and hurt ordinary people.
  2. The idea of fascism can grow when people feel left out and hopeless about their futures. If the needs of the struggling middle class and poor aren't addressed, it can lead to dangerous movements.
  3. The media and politics today often feel like a show, with truth taking a backseat to entertainment. This makes it hard for people to see what's really happening in society.

The Killing of Brian Thompson

719 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Insurance Economic Impact Corporate Accountability Public Health
  1. The CEO of UnitedHealthcare, Brian Thompson, was recently killed, sparking questions about possible motives related to healthcare policies and insurance denials.
  2. In the U.S., healthcare spending is highest among wealthy countries, but health outcomes are among the worst, with many people facing financial ruin due to medical bills.
  3. The business practices of health insurance companies are criticized for prioritizing profits over patient care, which can lead to unnecessary suffering and death.

Don't Deify Jimmy Carter

493 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Foreign Policy Human Rights Domestic Policy
  1. Jimmy Carter did some good work after being president, like speaking out for human rights, but during his presidency, he made many poor decisions.
  2. He supported actions that led to problems in places like Iran, Nicaragua, and Afghanistan, impacting many lives negatively.
  3. While he cared about human rights, many of his actions as president showed a lack of understanding of international issues, leading to a complicated legacy.

Fire Weather

392 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Wildfires Fossil fuels Climate change Environmental Policy
  1. Wildfires are becoming more common due to climate change and a reliance on fossil fuels. Areas like California are facing intense fire seasons, which scientists warned would happen.
  2. The boreal forests, which play a critical role in storing carbon and providing fresh water, are being destroyed by industrial activities like oil extraction. This destruction contributes to the worsening fire conditions.
  3. Modern homes are highly flammable because they're made with many petroleum-based materials. When they catch fire, they can burn much hotter than older buildings, making wildfires even more dangerous.

Trump, Musk, Gaza, the Rise of Totalitarianism and the End of the US Empire

353 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Totalitarianism Global relations Media influence
  1. The rise of totalitarianism is a growing concern in today's society. Many people feel freedom is slipping away and that authoritarian leaders are gaining power.
  2. The situation in Gaza highlights major issues related to human rights and global political struggles. This conflict affects many lives and raises questions about justice and peace.
  3. There is a sentiment that the US empire is declining. Some believe that both political and economic issues point to a significant change in power and influence on the world stage.

Genocide: The New Normal

399 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Aid Human Rights Conflict resolution International relations
  1. The ongoing violence in Gaza is seen as a methodical effort to eliminate the Palestinian population and solidify Israeli control over the region.
  2. The U.S. government has significantly increased military aid to Israel, reflecting a disregard for international laws and the consequences of war.
  3. Acts of violence and resistance are part of a cycle that can lead to more intense conflicts, suggesting that violence breeds more violence.

The Politics of Cultural Despair

607 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Social Issues Corporate Influence Civil Rights
  1. Despair is a major issue in society today. Many people are struggling with feelings of hopelessness due to lost jobs, poor economic conditions, and a lack of political representation.
  2. The rise of cult leaders reflects a society that feels powerless. People often turn to these leaders in hope of regaining control and finding meaning in their lives.
  3. To create real change, we need to focus on organizing and striking against corporate power. This can help restore dignity and purpose to people's lives and tackle the problems caused by a failing system.

Democracy Doesn’t Exist in the United States: Chris Hedges | UpFront

235 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Democracy Election Policy Government Foreign Relations
  1. Many people worry about the future of democracy in the U.S., especially with political leaders like Donald Trump. They think his return could change things for the worse.
  2. Concerns are rising about how Trump’s second term might affect both domestic policies and foreign relations, particularly in the Middle East. People wonder what that will mean for the country's direction.
  3. Chris Hedges, a well-known journalist, believes that democracy in America is not truly existing anymore. He expresses this view in various discussions and writings.

My Birthday Toast to my Palestinian Arabic Teacher

238 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Language Education Art Social Issues Identity
  1. The Arabic teacher, Ruba, uses honesty and humor to engage her students, making learning fun and memorable.
  2. Both the teacher and student share a deep emotional connection, often supporting each other through hard times, especially regarding difficult current events.
  3. The classes become a form of therapy and resilience, reminding them that they must continue learning and resisting despite the challenges they face.

Organized Oblivion

430 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Genocide Memory Cultural Identity
  1. The people of Gaza are facing destruction and will struggle to preserve their memories, similar to survivors of past genocides. They will create memoirs, maps, and stories to keep their history alive.
  2. Forgetfulness can lead to the loss of identity and culture, especially after traumatic events like genocide. Remembering the past is essential to understand who we are and protect our heritage.
  3. The erasure of places and people, like the fate of the Armenian community, shows the harsh reality of genocide. We must remember and fight against oblivion to honor those who suffered and to keep their stories alive.

Watch me Speak at the Workers Strike Back Conference LIVE Now!

147 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Labor Rights Political parties Government Policy Social movements Economic Inequality
  1. Both Republicans and Democrats serve the interests of the rich, not working people. We need to stand up for workers' rights against both parties.
  2. Major billionaires like Musk, Bezos, and Zuckerberg are harming workers and are anti-union. Their actions show they don’t care about the rights of everyday people.
  3. It's crucial to create a new working-class movement that is independent of the current political parties. This movement should aim for better healthcare, housing, and an end to military funding.

Virtue Hoarders and the Rejection of Liberalism (w/ Catherine Liu) | The Chris Hedges Report

168 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Labor Issues Election Analysis Cultural critique
  1. The professional managerial class (PMC) often ignores the real needs of the working class while focusing on virtue signaling. Instead of addressing issues that affect everyday workers, they get caught up in cultural fights.
  2. There is a growing disconnect between political elites and the realities faced by average Americans. Many politicians prioritize polls and focus groups over genuine conversations with the public.
  3. A strong sense of anti-authoritarianism and a desire for grassroots change exists in America. With the right focus, this discontent could unite people around common goals that benefit the working class.

One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This (w/ Omar El Akkad) | The Chris Hedges Report

146 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Media Ethics Human Rights Social justice Political Commentary
  1. Language can hide the truth about violence and suffering. It helps people look away without feeling guilty, making it easier to ignore what's really happening.
  2. Those living under oppression have their own ways to resist, and it's not fair for outsiders to dictate how they should fight back. Resistance comes in many forms, and often there's no right way to do it.
  3. Acts of love and solidarity are happening every day, even in difficult times. These small actions remind us that we are connected and that caring for one another is essential, despite the harsh realities around us.

Letter to Refaat Alareer

302 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Writing Human Rights Censorship Conflict
  1. Poetry can hold immense power, serving as a way to express emotions like hope, loss, and resistance against oppression. It connects people and keeps their stories alive.
  2. Many individuals, including students, journalists, and academics, are facing serious consequences, such as losing jobs or being silenced, for speaking out against injustice and violence.
  3. Remembering the stories of those who have suffered, like Palestinian poet Refaat Alareer, is crucial. Their voices continue to resonate and challenge the narrative imposed by oppressive forces.

Arab Regimes and the Betrayal of Palestine (w/ Farah El-Sharif) | The Chris Hedges Report

159 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Human Rights
  1. Many Muslim leaders prioritize their relationships with Western powers over their own people, leading to betrayal, especially regarding Palestine. This often results in silence or complicity in the face of violence against their communities.
  2. The oppression faced by Muslim communities is deeply tied to colonial and imperial actions, which continues to create divisions and reap devastation across the region. The struggle in Gaza highlights the extent of this systemic injustice.
  3. Young Muslims are seeking strong, moral leadership that stands for justice and integrity. They feel disillusioned by leaders who fail to uphold these values, and they are inspired to look to historical figures who embodied true resistance.

Exposing Big Tech’s Complicity in Genocide | The Chris Hedges Report

226 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Big Tech Censorship Data Privacy Corporate ethics Digital Rights
  1. Many big tech companies are accused of censoring information about the situation in Gaza, with some employees losing their jobs for speaking out against this censorship.
  2. Employees from companies like Meta, Microsoft, and Apple report that there are double standards when it comes to moderating content, often suppressing pro-Palestinian voices while allowing anti-Palestinian sentiments to thrive.
  3. Some tech companies are deeply involved in supporting military actions in Israel, providing necessary technology and services that could be used in the ongoing conflict.

Lee Lakeman and The Whoredom of the Left

317 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Neoliberalism Social justice Political Activism Patriarchy
  1. Lee Lakeman believes prostitution is a form of economic slavery, reflecting the failures of capitalism. Many women and girls engage in it not by choice, but out of desperation.
  2. The fight against prostitution is also a battle against dehumanizing neoliberal capitalism. Lakeman emphasizes that true activism should focus on protecting vulnerable individuals rather than accepting the status quo.
  3. There is a deep division within the left regarding issues of women's rights and exploitation. Lakeman argues that without acknowledging these issues, the left becomes ineffective in truly supporting all marginalized groups.

Chris Hedges: The Nature of Good and Evil

150 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Morality Human nature Social Critique
  1. Everyone has the capacity for both good and evil within them. It's important to recognize this duality in ourselves and others.
  2. In tough times, we often see real kindness and humanity shine through. These moments remind us of the best parts of people.
  3. It's vital to critique power structures rather than fall into hatred for groups or individuals. Focusing on power allows for healthier discussions.