Securing America with Frank Gaffney Podcast

Fred Grandy, Rep. Duncan Hunter, Bill Gertz

How was Mohamed Elibiary, a top member of the Homeland Security Council able to use his security clearance to access sensitive documents to defame Rick Perry? The real question, however, is why was Mohamed Elibiary the only DHS advisor to have access to such a sensitive database? Additionally, why is the Department of Homeland Security continuing to protect a man who abused their trust? Senior Fellow at the Center for Security Policy, Fred Grandy joins Frank for a few segments for a discussion on the pertinent topics for the week, including the complete Islamist penetration of the US government. What does this penetration of Islamic forces mean both for freedom of speech in the US and the future of counterterrorism activities?

Who is the “man behind the curtain” in today’s Republican party? Fred and Grandy continue today’s Secure Freedom Radio discussing how Republican tax expert, Grover Norquist’s connections to Islamist organizations continue to expand. They also enlighten us on the true intentions of the Democrats in regards to the defense budget. Grandy believes that the Democrats in power, such as Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, have always planned on cutting defense. It is only recently that they have started to put Republicans in a hard place where they must choose between raising taxes and cutting defense.

What can all Americans do to thank veterans for their service to our country? Representative for California’s 52^nd district and the first Marine combat veteran of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to be elected to the House of Representatives, Duncan Hunter continues Secure Freedom Radio’s tribute to US veterans. He expresses his personal views on the importance of our men and women in uniform. Rep. Hunter states that they best thing we can do for our military personnel is to simply tell them “thank you.” Do we, as a nation, have a connection to our all-volunteer force or are we losing our sense of respect for those in combat? Rep. Hunter highlights a growing concern that civilians and military personnel no longer have a tangible relationship. Moreover, does the security of the whole world rely on the US economy or does the international economy depend on the national security of the US?

National Security Writer for the Washington Times and weekly commentator at Secure Freedom Radio, Bill Gertz concludes today’s show touching on the new Air Sea Battle strategy for dealing with the Chinese military in the future. According to Gertz, a new office has been created within the Pentagon to deal with China’s growing military power. Has the United States finally recognized the grave threat that China poses to our government?

Nina Shea, Paul Marshall

Is the international community facing a suppression of the freedom of religion and speech in the face of Sharia law? If so, will the world be dominated by theology, rather than democratic principles? Director of the Center for Religious Freedom at the Hudson Institute, Nina Shea and her colleague, Paul Marshall join Frank to discuss their new book, Silenced: How Apostasy and Blasphemy Codes are Choking Freedom Worldwide. Shea and Marshall give us an insight into the world, where fear of violence for speaking out against Sharia is leading to massive self-censorship. Additionally, the State Department has issued a memorandum to their employees barring them from saying such words as “Salafi, liberty, and jihadist.” Is this memo a way of curbing racism in the workplace or another example of the growing influence of Sharia?

 

Why are American leaders like Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton working with organizations such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to abolish negative speech about Islam? Isn’t this just an example of stripping Americans of their freedom of speech? If so, while do these same leaders continue to stress the importance of the freedom of speech? Moreover, why are people being put on trial on blasphemy charges in democratic European countries such as Italy and the Netherlands simply for expressing their opinions on Islam and Sharia?

Rep. Mike Turner, Special Agent Matt Allen, Erick Stacklebeck, Mark Durie

Rep. Mike Turner, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee’s Strategic Forces Subcommittee, explains the importance of America’s nuclear deterrence and how it needs to be upgraded. America’s nuclear capabilities have provided deterrence from not only nuclear threats, but conventional threats as well. With an aging nuclear arsenal the question of reliability comes into play and since America is no longer testing this deterrent, how can we be certain they will work if the need arose? Do America’s allies really believe the U.S. strategic arsenal could provide protection? The Obama Administration wants to rid the world of nuclear weapons, yet the only country that can decrease its weapons is America. Rep. Turner speaks on the importance of America’s strategic arsenal to be upgraded and well funded in order to provide an appropriate defense of the nation. The threats to America have only increased and we must be able to meet those threats.

ICE Special Agent in Charge for Arizona Matt Allen speaks about Operation Pipeline Express.  This was a multiagency investigation of an 80 mile stretch of the Arizona/Mexico border to combat the narcotics smuggling within that tough, rugged area. The Sinaloa Cartel was the focus of the investigation which moves approximately 1 million lbs. of marijuana into the U.S. per year.  The outcome of the operation yielded 76 arrests and interrupted the flow of some $33 million dollars worth of narcotics. The cartels watch how law enforcement handles the situation and then adapts to overcome federal and local efforts, in turn agencies such as ICE must watch what the cartels are doing and adapt to overcome those efforts in order to secure our borders.

CBN reporter Erick Stacklebeck enlightens listeners on Mohammed Elibiary who markets himself as a moderate Muslim. The Obama Administration took notice and swore him in as a Homeland Security Advisor and helped shaped the Obama Administration’s counterterrorism strategy. Elibiary has a record of supporting Muslim Brotherhood ideology and used his Secret Clearance to access sensitive government information and then leaked it to the media. His goal, reportedly, was to spread false reports of Islamophobia and slander GOP presidential candidate Rick Perry. Elibiary is the only person on this 26 man advisory committee with access to this type of sensitive information, yet has not lost his job as a result of this serious breach of national security. Why has the Obama Administration failed to properly handle this situation with horrific national security implications? And why has the media not reported on a story of this magnitude? Why has the Obama Administration decided to halt training on the threat posed by radical Islam?

Mark Durie, author of “The Third Choice,” speaks on how Sharia provisions are being infused with Western laws. A native of Australia, Mark gives insights on how his countrymen are becoming more aware of how Islamists are working towards implementing Sharia into the Australian legal system. Fortunately, the Australian government has recognized this threat and worked towards keeping Australia Sharia free and therefore upholding the rights of everyone. “There is one law for everyone,” is what the Australian government proclaims when asked to implement Sharia into society. The end goal for these Islamists to have Shaira, in its entity, infused in Western society and allowing any parts of Sharia into a free society is a slippery slope and it is hard to draw the line on where to stop. It is better to not even start with allowing this archaic, submissive legal system into western society. Western nations around the around the world are experiencing this pressure to implement Sharia provisions, will they follow Australia’s lead or will they succumb to pressure from these Islamists?  

Richard Perle, Richard Fisher, Andy McCarthy

Richard Perle, former Assistant Secretary of Defense during the Reagan Administration, gives his insights on presidential candidate’s competency in foreign policy.  Richard feels that it is vital that foreign issues are debated before the election so voters can see which candidate truly understands national security and foreign policy issues. America cannot lead from behind therefore America needs a leader who will lead and push American leadership to the forefront of the international stage. The Russian Reset policy is a prime example of the Obama Administrations failure to lead. Vladimir Putin, who worked for the KGB during the Cold War, has yet to accept the fact that America won the Cold War and uses every opportunity to advance Russian interests at America’s expense. America cannot be the punching bag for any nation and that makes it vital to American security that a leader with a strong foreign policy is elected.

Richard Fisher, Senior Fellow at the International Assessment and Strategy Center explains the asymmetric capabilities of Communist China. China has provided over 1 million parts that either have been used or will be used in American military technology and those parts have been found to be defective by the Senate Armed Services Committee. China sees an opportunity to flood the American market with defective technology which will degrade the US military machine. What is the cost of using defective Chinese hardware in American military technology? Should the DOD be buying military parts from China? How can America buy military hardware from a country that it could potentially be at war with? What do we really know about China’s nuclear arsenal? They have constructed up to 3,000 kilometers of underground tunnels to conceal military weaponry and that should cause concern as to what they are hiding and what it could be used for.

Finally, weekly commentator Andy McCarthy explores the theory of Islam versus Islamism. Doctrinally, Islam is the source of the motivation for Islamist ideology and a classical interpretation of Sharia. Non-Muslims can live within a Muslim society, but must be subservient under the eyes of the classical views of Sharia. There are a lot of Muslims that embrace Western ideas and want nothing to do with the radical Sharia way of line. The threat is Islamism, not Islam. Islamism is the idea of Islamists wanting to create a world where Sharia rules and everyone else must either convert or be expelled. There are many followers of Islam that are allies of the United States and see these Islamists as as much of a threat to freedom, as Westerners do. Andy then goes into an Islamist, who supports terrorism, detained at Guantanamo Bay was transferred to England and is now suing the British government for how he was treated while in custody. The British feared what might happen if this case went to trial so they settled with this terrorist supporter for 1 million pounds ($1.6 million dollars) and is now living the high life in Britain.

Michael Gonzalez, Fred Kagan, Caroline Glick, Gordon Chang

What does it take to be Commander-in-Chief of the United States? Barack Obama dazzled voters in 2008 having spent time in other countries and being the son of a Kenyan, but it has become apparent that this global knowledge does not necessarily translate into foreign policy. Heritage Foundation’s Michael Gonzalez explains the shortcomings of the Obama’s policies which have included calling for Israel to push back to the ’67 borders and trying to work with the Iranian dictatorship.

Next, Fred Kagan from the American Enterprise Institute explains why America has lost Iraq because the Obama Administration decided not to push for continued American presence after the end of 2011. Iran has won Iraq over America because with no American influence, Iran is free to come in and sway Iraqi politics and security. The Bush Administration pushed for continued American influence and handed those negotiations over to the Obama Administration which has turned their back and wiped their hands of Iraq. With US forces preparing to leave, al-Qaeda is showing a resurgent as well as local militias within Iraq. Also, cooperation between Sunnis and Shiites has broken along with political inclusiveness. Barack Obama has been able to steal defeat from the jaws of victory.

In segment three, Caroline Glick gives her insights on the prospect of Israel striking Iran’s nuclear installations. “Israel doesn’t talk about existential threats; we take care of them…We have to take care of business.”  Caroline feels that the rumors surrounding a possible Israeli strike on Iran is just that, rumors perpetrated by journalists who like to hype of stories. Israel is doing what it needs to do to protect itself in a very hostile region and although there may be discussions pertaining to possible strikes, the government will not advertise it but just go do it. This is smart foreign policy, not aggressiveness but protecting one’s own existence.

Weekly Asian correspondent Gordon Chang rounds out today’s show with his insights on the growing Chinese threat. America does not fully nor appropriately understand the Chinese threat because America does not actually listen to their policies. As long as America ignores Chinese policies and actions, the United States will always be at risk for conflict. Whether it is in cyberspace or through conventional means, America must acknowledge the Chinese threat and start to take actions to counter such threats and put America’s allies in the region at ease that the United States will come to their aid if needed. China wants to use their financial muscle to make Europe their ally, instead o the United States. If Europe turns to China for financial assistance, what would China get in return? China would like to get weapons from the Europeans that were originally purchased from the United States. The Chinese regime is also proud of their one child policy because it is another way for them to control the population and intrude on the lives of the citizens. Forced abortions and sterilization are rampant which could give rise to political instability as well as economic instability as the population ages.

Fred Grandy, Rep. John Shimkus, Reza Kahlili, Bill Gertz

What does the recent launch of a long-range missile by Israel mean for relations in the region? Are these missiles capable of hitting Iran, and if so, should the Iranians be concerned? Fred Grandy joins Frank for another “Week in Review” segment. The announcement by Israel was the first time that a nation had recognized that Iran was the premier threat in the world. Thus, Israel responded in the only language they seem to understand: weaponry. Will Israel be able to take out Iranian nuclear facilities like it did in 1981 with Saddam Hussein? Additionally, will their new missiles stand up to Iran’s nuclear power? Fred and Frank also touch on how the concept of the EU was great in practice and promise, but has failed to live up to its promise of supporting the weaker countries under its control.

What impact will the HR 1687 Open Fuel Standard Act of 2011 have on energy security and independence in the United States? Rep. John Shimkus of Illinois steps up to the microphone to enlighten us on how the United States can transition away from reliance on crude oil and explore other natural resources. Alternative energy sources such as ethanol can be used to set a new standard for transportation fuel. By manufacturing flex-fuel vehicles, the United States could greatly increase its energy independence. Rep. Shimkus argues that mandating the industry to consider all forms of liquid fuels would not reduce competition, but would replace the current mandate that requires gasoline be at every gas pump. Will the United States be able to reduce its dependence on foreign oil like Brazil did with its transportation system, or will we continue to rely on foreign nations for our energy supply?

Why were sensitive documents from the Iranian intelligence ministry removed by the President of Iran? Is it true that President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad did such a thing just in case other Iranian leaders threatened his power? Former Iranian Revolutionary Guard Member and undercover agent, Reza Kahlili gives us a special insight into the political strife occurring within Iran. According to Kahlili, the United States has had its head in the stand for over two decades. Have we really misunderstood the ideology behind Iran’s nuclear build-up? Moreover, by abandoning the mission in Iraq, has President Obama given way to the “end of times” that Iran has been preaching?

National Security writer for the Washington Times, Bill Gertz concludes today’s show uncovering the dire consequences that will happen if the Obama administration goes along with its $1 trillion cuts to defense. These cuts not only affect national security, but also influence emergency organizations such as FEMA. More worrying is the fact that China has been providing Iran with cruise missiles in violation of US sanctions.

Ralph Reed, Tony Blankley, Rep. Steve Chabot

Is a slow economy an excuse to turn a blind eye to the threats that face our nation? How can we combat such threats if we do not even know they exist, or have the means to combat them? These are questions that Frank’s first guest, Ralph Reed, bring to light. Americans cannot lose sight of that simple fact that there are entities in this world, either state or non-state actors, that wish to harm and ultimately bring down the American way of life. Republicans must keep their eye on the ball and keep the public informed to these threats so drastic actions, such as slashing our defense budget, do not take place and compromise American security.

Tony Blankley, contributor to the Washington Times, spends two segments with Frank enlightening Americans on China’s possible growing influence. “China is not 10 feet tall and America is no midget.” Now more than ever America needs to stand up, be strong and lead from the front. Europe might be turning to China for economic assistance and in return for more influence as well as a European blind eye to their devious economic transgressions. Nations in Asia are looking to the U.S. to take the lead and provide support in countering this ever increasing aggressor. Nations are increasing their own military readiness, but are still hoping the U.S. will stand tall against China. These nations will follow as long as America is willing to lead. With American influence and strength as well as the support of the Asian nations, Chinese power can be curtailed and keep them operating within the world order.

Finally, Representative Steve Chabot of Ohio’s 1^st District explains how the Muslim Brotherhood is a violent organization composed of violent extremists and America needs to stay vigilant in combating this threat.  The Obama Administration either believes the Muslim Brotherhood when they say they are working for democracy, in that case the administration is delusional, or the president fails to realize the nature of the threat. With governments in the Arab world toppling like dominoes, America needs to be ready to counter any threats that may emerge from these new regimes.  Can America really counter the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood if the Super Committee fails to reach an agreement and the defense budget is drastically reduced?

Avi Jorisch, Daniel Goure, Jeff Kueter, Jim Hanson

Are financial sanctions putting a check on Iran’s ambitions to obtain nuclear weapons? Additionally, are these sanctions successfully putting a stop to Iran’s underhanded banking methods? Founder of the Red Cell Intelligence Group, Avi Jorisch examines the issues surrounding the way in which the Iranian regime is moving money around in the financial sector. This includes establishing a banking regime and exporting commodities such as gas. Although the United States has gone after the Iranian banking sector by blacklisting them and cubing their movement of money, they still have yet to put the pressure on charities and other such organizations that help funnel money into Iran. By exerting more pressure over these organizations, will Iran finally feel the pinch and stop moving money into the international financial sector?

How will cutting $460 billion in the defense budget over the next ten years impact the modernization of the US military? Daniel Goure of the Lexington Institute touches on how US military equipment and even the morale of the all-volunteer force would be gravely damaged by these cuts. Additionally, will we be forced to go to adversaries such as China for modern military technology in the future when our military capabilities have been completely depleted?

Is today a red-letter day for China’s space program? President of the Marshall Institute, Jeff Kueter joins Frank to discuss the Chinese’s first attempt at the robotic docking of a rocket launcher. This docking is the first step by the Chinese in building a solely Chinese space station. Does this docking also mark the continued exploitation of space by the Chinese for military purposes? What will it mean for the United States if the Chinese gain operational abilities in space? There is no question that the growing Chinese space program would contribute to the Chinese ambition of expanding its national power. Will their advantages in space allow the Chinese to continue to engage in informationalization warfare?

Finally, weekly regular here at Secure Freedom Radio and our go to guy for the “boots on the ground” perspective, Jim Hanson discusses the visual and non-visual injuries sustained by our men and women in uniform. Many of these heroes are suffering from non-visual injuries such as PTDS and TBI and are misunderstood by those who find it difficult to understand their injuries. However, many therapies such as musical therapy are being offered at Walter Reed Hospital to treat these men and women of their pain.

Roger Noriega, Patrick Poole, Rep. Frank Wolf, Andy McCarthy

Have US immigration officials and judges failed to realize that Hugo Chavez has established a dictatorship that drives out his opponents? Visiting Fellow at AEI and resident Latin American expert here at Secure Freedom Radio, Roger Noriega joins guest host, Fred Grandy to discuss the Chavez dilemma. The Chavez regime is suggesting that exiles who flee Venezuela to seek asylum in the United States are criminals. Why doesn’t the Obama administration step up against Chaves to defend those seeking asylum within our borders? According to Noriega, US officials continue to coddle Chavez due to their belief that US policies are responsible for all of the ills in South America. Is it this “liberal guilt” that allows the Chavez regime to act without consequence or is it merely the ignorance of the Obama administration?

Next, author and journalist Patrick Poole shares with Fred his expertise on Middle Eastern affairs. Did member of the Department of Homeland Security Advisory Council and member on the Texas Department of Safety Advisory Council, Mohamed Elibiary use his security clearance to give sensitive documents to a left-leaning publication? Additionally, why did Elibiary use these documents to paint Gov. Rick Perry and the Texas Department of Safety Advisory Council as Islamophobic? Why would Elibiary, a self-proclaimed Muslim deradicalization expert, side with Islamist extremists? The publication to which these documents had been exposed turned them down, as they stated they were not as they appeared. According to Poole, the real question is not why did he do these things, but how did Mohamed Elibiary first get elected to the advisory councils?

Is Rep. Frank Wolf of Virginia’s 10^th district a true champion for human rights or did he simply have a bad travel agent? Rep. Wolf shares the microphone for another segment of “The Cloakroom” with Fred Grandy. Not only does he touch upon the human rights issues that he presents in his new book, “Prisoner of Conscience: One Man's Crusade for Global Human and Religious Rights,” but he also gives Fred an inside look into his personal connection to the abuses occurring throughout the international community. Is it true that the words in the Constitution are a covenant to protect freedom throughout the entire world? If so, why are most Americans more disinterested in human rights issues today more than before?

Should the United States have left Qaddafi in power or is the new Libyan leadership a ray of hope? Contributing Editor for National Review Online and weekly guest, Andy McCarthy concludes today’s show expressing his opinions on the overthrow of Qaddafi in Libya. Will the next five to ten years in the Middle East be ruled by a hegemonic power or be dominated by warring factions?