The hottest International relations Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

US Support For Israel Comes At A Staggering, Multifaceted Price

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey • 1428 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The financial support from the US to Israel isn't just $3.8 billion a year; it costs Americans much more in many hidden ways.
  2. US involvement in conflicts, driven by support for Israel, has led to significant human and monetary costs, affecting both American lives and global perceptions.
  3. Growing numbers of Americans are questioning the benefits of supporting Israel, seeing it as a burden rather than an asset to the US.

World War III

Doomberg • 302 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Global tensions are rising, hinting at a potential worldwide conflict. It's important to stay informed about these developments.
  2. Using mental models can help us understand and predict how these conflicts might evolve. This can guide our decisions and thoughts about the future.
  3. Being aware of the changes in the balance of power among countries is crucial. It influences not just politics, but also economics and daily life.

My Terrorists Face Judgment Day

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1669 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Some people are happy about the downfall of powerful figures in Iran, as they have caused a lot of suffering. They see this as a moment of justice.
  2. The author has faced serious threats from Iran's government, including attempts to kidnap and kill them. This shows how dangerous it can be to speak out against oppressive regimes.
  3. The fight for freedom and safety isn't just personal for the author; it's part of a larger struggle many people are facing. Their story highlights the importance of independent journalism in uncovering these issues.

The Forgotten American: Can There Be Life After 12 Years in a Chinese Prison?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1405 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Mark Swidan spent over 12 years in a Chinese prison for a crime he didn't commit. It was a tough time where he felt isolated and confused.
  2. After returning to Texas, Mark struggles to readjust to life outside prison. He's focused on rebuilding his life, but it's proving to be a big challenge.
  3. He's currently relying on food stamps, which shows how hard it is for someone with his past to find stability and support in America.

Netanyahu vs. the Diaspora

Diane Francis • 799 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Netanyahu's government is facing backlash from Jewish communities worldwide due to its actions in Gaza, which are leading to rising anti-Semitism and a tarnished image of Israel.
  2. The Jewish diaspora feels disconnected from the Israeli government's decisions and wants a stronger voice in how Israel is run, especially regarding policies that impact human rights and inclusivity.
  3. Many Israelis are unhappy with Netanyahu's leadership, with calls for his resignation growing, and there is a sense that if changes don’t happen soon, it could threaten the essence of Zionism itself.
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Niall Ferguson: The Rot In Britain—and the Remedy

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3941 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. There is a growing concern about the state of debate and free speech in Britain, especially highlighted by an incident at the Oxford Union. People are feeling that open discussions are being stifled.
  2. During a recent debate, the crowd showed hostility towards pro-Israel speakers, indicating a divide in opinions and a lack of respect for differing viewpoints. This suggests there may be an atmosphere that discourages diverse opinions.
  3. Overall, the situation raises questions about national identity and the importance of preserving traditional values in the face of modern challenges. People are worried about losing what makes their country special.

Why Russia Can't Win, Part Two

Diane Francis • 859 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Ukrainians have a strong sense of identity and civil society, showing their pride through cultural differences from Russia. They resist oppression and demonstrate unity in protest and defense.
  2. Despite losing part of their territory, Ukraine remains a rich country with valuable resources and intellectual talent. This strength enables them to innovate and fight back against Russian aggression.
  3. The conflict has shown that Ukraine's determination to fight is unwavering, and many allies in Europe recognize the urgency to support them against an existential threat.

Haiti or Hades?

Diane Francis • 779 implied HN points • 28 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Haiti is struggling a lot while the Dominican Republic is doing well. This difference started a long time ago when Spain occupied the DR and made policies that helped them succeed.
  2. Today, gangs in Haiti control most of the country, causing violence and chaos. Many people have been killed, and the police are unable to handle the situation.
  3. The Dominican Republic is building a wall to keep out the violence from Haiti. They are asking for help from the UN and the US to bring peace and security to the area.

Hamas Murdered Their Son. What Do They Think of the Ceasefire?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3134 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Three women were recently released after being held hostage by Hamas for 15 months, marking the start of a ceasefire. This exchange includes bringing back some Israeli captives in return for Palestinian prisoners.
  2. Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a young Israeli man, was taken by Hamas during an attack at a music festival where many were killed. His fate was uncertain for a long time, which caused great distress to his family.
  3. The ongoing situation involves deep emotions, with the families of the hostages expressing their feelings about ceasefires and the impact on their loved ones. They seek answers and hope for peace in a troubled region.

CIA, Ukraine Exchange Pre-Divorce Propaganda

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 8743 implied HN points • 27 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. The New York Times exposé revealed extensive details about the CIA-Ukraine relationship, including the presence of secret spy bases along the Russian border.
  2. Officials often emphasize the need to protect 'sources and methods' for national security, yet the Times published a wealth of detailed information about CIA operations.
  3. The public disclosure of such classified details raises questions about the future of the CIA-Ukraine alliance and the potential for a breakup.

US sends Israel 100+ weapons shipments. Most Americans oppose it - but Biden ignores them.

Geopolitical Economy Report • 916 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Polls show that a majority of North Americans oppose the US sending weapons to Israel, but the Biden administration has sent over 100 arms shipments regardless.
  2. 52% of North Americans want to end US weapons shipments to Israel, with majority opposition from voters who didn't support Trump, Biden voters, and young Democrats.
  3. UN experts have accused Israel of carrying out genocide, while areas in Gaza face starvation and dire humanitarian crises amid the conflict.

Those Who Condemn Hamas Lack Empathy And Humility

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 861 implied HN points • 26 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. People often judge Hamas without understanding the difficult lives they led. It's important to consider how their experiences shaped their actions.
  2. Both Israelis and Palestinians are affected by their environments and histories. We can't just label one side as good and the other as bad without seeing the bigger picture.
  3. Real change requires addressing the unfair systems in place. Just like history's major injustices, we need to recognize and change the structures that cause conflict.

Dingbat Imperialism, the Lowest Stage of Capitalism

Unpopular Front • 92 implied HN points • 13 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Classical accounts see imperialism as a stage where monopolies and finance capital export fixed capital and carve up the world. That picture doesn’t fit modern cases where big firms often refuse risky, long-term investments overseas.
  2. Recent interventions look driven more by small, opportunistic firms and political allies chasing quick resource grabs than by large cartel-led colonial projects. This “dingbat imperialism” is pushed by flexible independents and upstart business networks, not established majors.
  3. Imperialism is not monolithic: sometimes states, prestige politics, or speculative upstarts drive expansion when established finance stays hands-off. Contemporary interventions can therefore be about political opportunism and primitive accumulation rather than a final, monopoly-dominated stage of capitalism.

The Fall of Assad and What Comes Next in Syria

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3612 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Bashar al-Assad, the dictator of Syria, has been overthrown after 24 years in power. This change is seen as a major event for the modern Middle East.
  2. Despite the cheers for his fall, there are concerns about the new leaders. Some of the rebel groups that took over were previously linked to more extreme factions like al-Qaeda.
  3. The departure of Assad raises questions about the future of Syria. It is uncertain if the new power dynamics will be better or worse for the country's people.

Chartbook 349 Scholasticides

Chartbook • 2846 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Cultural genocide is often part of larger genocidal plans. To erase a culture, you have to destroy its education and learning systems.
  2. Scholasticide, which targets educational institutions, can both support genocide and stand alone as an attack on a society's future.
  3. In conflicts like those in Gaza and Sudan, education systems face extreme challenges. The destruction in Gaza is unmatched, impacting universities and severing communication for students and educators.

Did NATO provoke Russia's invasion of Ukraine?

Glenn’s Substack • 239 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. NATO may have played a role in provoking Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This idea is supported by some evidence in discussions.
  2. The argument about NATO's involvement gets complicated because it can be mistaken for supporting Russia's actions. It's important to separate facts from opinions.
  3. Understanding these events requires looking at the facts without bias. People often mix up facts with the narratives they want to believe.

America still needs Canadian oil. Here's why

Material World • 2899 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The US relies heavily on Canadian oil, with Canada providing around 61% of its oil imports. This shows that even though the US produces a lot of oil, it still needs oil from other countries like Canada.
  2. American refineries are designed to process heavy oil, which is mostly sourced from Canada. This creates a unique situation where even though the US is an oil producer, it still heavily imports due to refinery needs.
  3. If tariffs on Canadian oil increase, the US might have to look for heavy oil from countries like Venezuela or Russia, which could lead to more complicated geopolitical issues.

The Hostage Deal Is the Price of Israel’s Failures

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3046 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Israel is close to making a deal with Hamas to release captives. The first step involves freeing 33 hostages, including children and the elderly.
  2. The deal has three phases that could lead to the end of the conflict, but each phase relies on the success of the previous one.
  3. If the deal works, it will bring mixed feelings in Israel, with joy for the hostages' return but also anger and disappointment about the circumstances.

The Hamas Mafia

Diane Francis • 1738 implied HN points • 27 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Hamas leaders live a lavish lifestyle far from the conflict, while they exploit the people of Gaza for their own wealth. They collect taxes on smuggled goods and skim donations meant for the needy.
  2. The unemployment rate in Gaza is extremely high, and most people live in poverty. Despite winning elections in 2007, Hamas has not delivered on promises of better living conditions, but instead, they persist in conflict.
  3. Hamas operates like a criminal organization, focusing on financial gain through warfare and corruption. Their actions harm the very people they claim to represent, and the global community needs to take action against these corrupt regimes.

The Canadians Who Say: ‘Trump, Take My Country—Please!’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3227 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Some Canadians feel so frustrated with their country that they joke about wanting to become part of the United States. They believe life has become stagnant and see more opportunities in America.
  2. People like Ryan Hemsley express a longing for change and believe that becoming the 51st state could bring a fresh start and revitalization.
  3. Discontent with the current political leadership in Canada is leading some to fantasize about a different kind of future under the U.S. government.

Germany: A Political not an Industry Problem?

CDR Salamander • 1120 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Germany is facing a security challenge due to political issues more than industry problems.
  2. Europe struggles to defend against threats with minimal naval power from major Continental European nations.
  3. The lack of military strength in Europe, particularly in Germany, poses significant challenges due to demographic shifts, political disruptions, and economic factors.

The Fewer Soldiers On The Front Line The Better

Phillips’s Newsletter • 185 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Drones have remade the battlefield: constant surveillance and kamikaze UAVs turned the area between armies into a deadly "grey zone," forcing a move away from large, traditional frontline formations.
  2. Russian forces have tried brutal, improvised ways (horses, crawling, bad weather) to push across that zone, causing heavy losses and lots of local attacks but no sustained breakthroughs or exploitation.
  3. Ukraine adapted by putting fewer soldiers on the front, using unmanned systems and small, highly trained units to inflict disproportionate casualties, and needs air defence plus more UAV production and training instead of mass conscription.

Helen Toner Takes the Reins at CSET

ChinaTalk • 222 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Helen Toner believes that CSET should focus on delivering rigorous, evidence-based research while adapting to the fast-changing landscape of AI and national security. She wants to maintain CSET's unique value, particularly its depth of knowledge on China.
  2. The conversation around AI policy is becoming more complex, with the rise of 'dark arts' or manipulative tactics in Washington. However, there is still a strong demand for factual, evidence-driven analysis, which CSET aims to provide through direct interaction with policymakers.
  3. Toner introduced the concept of a 'jagged frontier' in AI, which suggests that AI's progress may be uneven—good at some tasks while struggling with others. This perspective emphasizes the importance of policy supporting steady advancements rather than rapid, unpredictable changes.

Britain’s War on Speech Comes for the Pub

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1038 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The UK is passing a law that could punish people for comments made in public, which includes places like pubs and restaurants. This could change how people interact and joke with each other in social settings.
  2. The law is informally called the 'Banter Bill,' highlighting how serious concerns about free speech are being treated lightly. Many believe this shows a growing problem with free expression in Britain.
  3. The situation is becoming a topic of debate, as some politicians and commentators criticize the government's actions and advocate for the importance of free speech in society.

The Long Con Comes To An End

Phillips’s Newsletter • 304 implied HN points • 22 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The Trump Administration did not follow through on promised sanctions against countries buying Russian oil, leaving them free to continue their business.
  2. Despite claims of supporting Ukraine, the administration's actions have largely weakened Ukraine while benefiting Russia.
  3. Trump's long-term strategy seemed to mislead allies into thinking the U.S. would be tougher on Putin, which has caused confusion and inaction among European states regarding military aid to Ukraine.

The Oil War

Diane Francis • 1099 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Illicit oil trade is booming, with many ships smuggling oil from Russia and Iran. This trade helps fund wars and poses environmental risks due to poorly maintained vessels.
  2. China and India play a major role in supporting Russia's economy by importing significant amounts of oil. This trend allows them to profit while indirectly supporting Russia's actions in Ukraine.
  3. Despite existing sanctions, the criminal activity in the oil sector continues to thrive. It's important for international authorities to step up enforcement and regulation to stop this dangerous trade.

Europe's 2024 Resolution

Diane Francis • 1199 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Europe is realizing the serious threat Russia poses, leading to stronger military support for Ukraine. Countries like Germany and the UK are stepping up with more weapons and defenses.
  2. Despite heavy losses, Ukraine is making gains and has the support of its allies. They believe that if they keep fighting, they can defeat Russia and reclaim their land.
  3. There's growing unity among European nations, and many are considering tough measures like seizing Russian assets to help Ukraine. Leaders are optimistic about ultimate victory against Russia's aggression.

Putin's 143 Million Prisoners

Diane Francis • 1139 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Putin's control over Russia is strong, but many Russians are unhappy with the war and rising costs of living. Polls show support for the war is dropping as more people face tough times.
  2. There's a growing anti-war movement, especially from the families of soldiers. These women are protesting in quiet ways and bringing attention to the high casualty rates in the military.
  3. Despite seeming powerful, Putin faces challenges from within Russia. Discontent among the public and elite feuds could threaten his ability to maintain control.

✨ Trump's new AI plan is necessary but insufficient

Faster, Please! • 1005 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The Trump administration's new AI plan focuses on making the U.S. a leader in artificial intelligence. It's more about competing globally than creating detailed rules for AI safety.
  2. The plan has three main goals: to accelerate innovation, build necessary infrastructure, and lead in international partnerships. This means investing in research and creating better facilities for AI development.
  3. However, the plan doesn't address risks related to superintelligent AI or consumer protections thoroughly. Critics worry it might overlook important safety measures.

Liberal Strategy: Not getting jokes.

Unsafe • 963 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. The media often overreacts to everything Trump says, which can sometimes be seen as jokes.
  2. Trump's comments about NATO provoked strong responses from various news outlets and prompted debates about international relations.
  3. The New York Times's response to Trump's remarks was particularly critical, highlighting the potential impact on international order.

Is It Possible To Stay Sane on Israel/Gaza?

Castalia • 419 implied HN points • 10 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. It's tough to find a balanced view on the Israel-Palestine conflict with so much chaos happening. Both sides have strong feelings, but finding common ground is really important.
  2. Terms like 'colonialism' and 'genocide' are used differently by different people, which can confuse discussions. Understanding the exact meanings behind these words is key to clearer conversations.
  3. Thinking about all the suffering in Gaza and the political arguments can be really overwhelming. It's important to take a step back, breathe, and try to view things from all sides to stay sane.

Civil Rights Are Being Destroyed Throughout The West In Service Of Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2444 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Journalists are facing serious consequences for speaking out about Israel and its actions. Some have been detained and banned for expressing opinions that are seen as critical of Israel.
  2. There is a growing pattern of civil rights being weakened across many Western countries, supposedly to protect Israel. This trend is alarming as it impacts freedom of speech.
  3. The conflict between Israelis and Palestinians is deeply rooted in a long-term agenda to displace Palestinians from their land. Many believe that recent violence has been used as a pretext for further colonization.

They Predicted World War III. They Were Wrong.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1168 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  1. Tucker Carlson predicted that a conflict with Iran could lead to World War III, warning of massive consequences for the U.S. and its economy.
  2. Despite his claims, the reactions and outcomes did not align with his predictions, showing a disconnect from reality.
  3. Carlson expressed concern for responsible communication during the crisis, but his earlier predictions may have contributed to the anxiety around the situation.

The New Issue Of JOHNSTONE: This Is Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1085 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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.

My Pacifist Grandfather Was Murdered by Iran. Here’s What the World Should Know.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1177 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics International relations
  1. Albert Votaw was a passionate pacifist who dedicated his life to helping others through international aid work. He believed in peace and served his country in a non-military way during World War II.
  2. He had a rich life full of adventures, traveling the world with his family while working for USAID. His journey took him from post-war Europe to African nations and then to Lebanon.
  3. Albert's life tragically ended in 1983 when he was killed in Lebanon. His story highlights the dangers faced by those who work for peace and aid in conflict zones.

Washington Drops Ukraine, Israel Backs Down On Hamas Demands

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2360 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations
  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.